Robert_Plotnik
Robert Plotnik
American lawyer
Robert Edward Plotnik (August 28, 1943 – November 29, 2018), also known as Bleecker Bob, was the owner of an eponymous record shop first located on Bleecker Street in Manhattan, New York. He became a legend in the music industry and his store was a landmark in Greenwich Village, known for its selection of rare records.[2][3] Often viewed as eccentric, he formed friendships with many celebrities.[4][5] Members from bands like Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, David Bowie and the Clash would frequent his shop looking for old records.[6][7]
Plotnik was noted for recognizing changes in music, and his store was at the forefront of emerging rock genres, such as punk rock, where he offered hard-to-find British and American records.[5][8] Joey Ramone of the punk rock band the Ramones, said, "Bleecker Bob's has everything."[9] This often required him to import records from overseas that were not available in the United States.[5] Many rock stars were patrons of his shop, and Plotnik would often jeer them while in his store.[10] Guitarist Lenny Kaye met Patti Smith while he was working for Plotnik at Village Oldies.
The wisecracking Plotnik and his shop were featured on a 1993 episode of Seinfeld, titled "The Old Man".[11]