"The postwar explosion of independent rhythm and blues record companies included an extremely important group of African American-owned firms that played hardball with the big boys long before Berry Gordy established Motown. Heading the list were Vee-Jay Records in Chicago, Don Robeys hard-boiled Duke/Peacock empire in Houston, and Bobby Robinsons Harlem-based Fury and Fire logos. Robinson accrued his early industry experience from behind the counter of Bobbys Record Shop, located down the block from the Apollo Theatre. The store opened for business on August 20, 1946, and it became a gathering place for record buyers and music luminaries alike. Stars would wander down between their Apollo shows, and label honchos would stop by to see what was selling. Along the way, Robinson learned the ingredients that went into a hit." - Waterfront Records