The Ryerson Student Learning Centre is making quite the impact on the corner of Yonge and Gould Streets, and while the new landmark brings a bold architectural statement to the Downtown Yonge area, many still lament the loss of the site's predecessor. Sam The Record Man was more than just a music store; in the days before free downloads and satellite radio, record stores were the gateway into the world of music. Generations of Torontonians passed through the doors of Sam's flagship Yonge Street location, and though the building was demolished in 2007 to make way for the new Ryerson facility, the iconic spinning record signs which adorned the exterior will live on, thanks to a vote at city council yesterday morning.

Rendering of the Sam The Record Man signage atop 277 Victoria, image courtesy of the City of Toronto

The original plan would have seen the historic signage mounted on the new Ryerson building, but concerns over both the sign's toxic mercury elements and the relationship with the modern architecture led to the renegotiation. With the new agreement approved by City Council, the signage will be moved to the top of 277 Victoria Street, on Dundas just east of Yonge. As part of the agreement, Ryerson will be required to install and maintain a plaque directing interested persons to the new location of the signage.

Rendering of the Sam The Record Man signage atop 277 Victoria, image courtesy of the City of Toronto

City Council has also recommended that City staff examine funding sources for a "Toronto Music City" sign that would anchor the Sam Signage to the building and provide a visual link to a possible music related facility at 38 Dundas Street East.