Over the years, Tom had many fine employees and guitar teachers – in addition, he had me. I worked for Tom for a couple years in the 70’s at the old store at the corner of 25th and Home across from the high school. I had no idea what was involved in running a business and learned a lot from Tom’s patient tutelage.
In 1977, there were 2 stores in Columbus which sold LP records, Pickett’s and Music Box. (Pickett’s had an extraordinary selection of 45s). One time I wore a “Music Box” t-shirt to work – not a good move. Another time I had the store on my own when Tom went to dinner. I put a record on the record player and turned it up loud. Upon his return, Tom could hear the music from down the street: suffice it to say, he was not amused.
Another time, he corrected me for something, I don’t remember what. But, my reaction must have been something to the effect of “what’s the big deal?” He proceeded to instruct me on the old proverb “For Want of a Nail” as follows:
For want of a nail the shoe was lost.
For want of a shoe the horse was lost.
For want of a horse the rider was lost.
For want of a rider the message was lost.
For want of a message the battle was lost.
For want of a battle the kingdom was lost.
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.
At the time I couldn’t appreciate what nails had to do with a music store. However, over time, I have come to appreciate this important lesson on the attention to detail.
Tom must know something about running a business. How many other businesses in Columbus have had the run Pickett’s has?
Tickets to Jammin’ With the Stars: A Tribute to Tom Pickett – $20
June 28, 7:30 pm, The Commons
