The iconic neon Sam the Record Man sign that served as a beacon for music lovers for years remains homeless despite calls from some of Canada's most recognizable musicians.
The 800-light sign that hung above Sam the Record Man's flagship store on Yonge St. in downtown Toronto, was removed after Ryerson University bought the building in 2008.
Recently, a letter from Canadian rock superstar Geddy Lee surfaced on a Facebook page dedicated to saving the two-storey sign.
"Ryerson and the City of Toronto should absolutely preserve what myself and many of its citizens consider to be an important symbol of our past and of that store's contributions to our culture," the letter posted on the Facebook page of the group 'SOS: Save Our Sam' read.
Ryerson has balked at putting the sign up on its new building located at Sam the Record Man’s former Yonge Street location, citing health concerns as well as steep maintenance and installations fees. Recent talks between Ryerson and with the city have suggested embedding replica signs in the sidewalk, or erecting the sign at a nearby location on Gould St.
Lee’s letter joins similar calls from other Canadian musicians who believe the sign is an integral part of Canada' musical culture.
A letter from Gordon Lightfoot said the sign reminds us of the huge role Sam the Record Man store played in the cultural life of Toronto.
"I believe (it) should be preserved and remounted in the interests of our city's heritage," the letter read.
Letters from Canada's first lady of guitar, Liona Boyd, Rik Emmett, and Donnie Walsh of Downchild, whom many consider the father of Canadian blues, have also appeared on Facebook.
