Category Archives: A morning mix of news for the vinyl inclined

New York, NY | Vinyl enthusiasts line up for Record Store Day: Record Store Day, a biannual event aimed at promoting independent record and music stores, kicked off Saturday, with vinyl enthusiasts lined up at Rock and Soul in Midtown, Manhattan. “Bring a book, bring a blanket, bring a chair. It’s not the beach, but it’ll do,” customer Steven Weissman, who lined up outside the record store around 5 p.m. Friday, said. “It’s just very cold. I’m very tired,” Hailey Helsel, another customer near the front of the line, said. Dephyrus Jiang was the first in line for the Wicked vinyl, which he managed to score once the doors opened at 8 a.m. He got on line at 3 p.m. on Friday. “I’ve been doing this since day one. I’ve done different record stores, this is one of the best though,” said Bruce Alexander, who says he’s taken part in Record Store Day every year since it began. …Helsel said it was her first time in a record store.

Winnipeg, CA | Record Store Day brings dozens of audiophiles together to seek limited edition vinyl: Dozens of eagerly awaiting vinyl collectors gathered across the city today to seek some hard to find gems on Record Store Day. “We had a lineup at the door of I think there were 45 people in line,” said Greg Tonn, owner of Into The Music in The Exchange District. “Record Store Day is a celebration of the unique contribution that independent record stores make to music culture in general. It’s been going on for almost 20 years now.” Tonn said his store which will celebrate 38 years in June, has participated in the biannual event since the second year it began. The worldwide event which started in 2008 features a whole schedule of brand new and unique items available in limited quantity. Six different music stores in Winnipeg participated in the limited release of vinyl this spring.

Green Bay, WI | Vinyl lovers gather at Rock N’ Roll Land in Green Bay for Record Store Day releases: Vinyl fans packed the sidewalk outside Rock N’ Roll Land Saturday morning, some camping out overnight, all hoping to score rare and exclusive releases for Record Store Day. Doors opened at 7 a.m., but the line started forming a day earlier. The first 50 people in line received goodie bags, while all shoppers were treated to free coffee, donuts, and live music from a DJ spinning from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Used records and CDs were also marked down to half price. “Today is Record Store Day. It’s a national event. It happens once a year—they do several hundred limited releases,” said Todd Magnuson, owner of Rock N’ Roll Land. “We’ve had people line up as early as yesterday at six in the morning.” This year, Magnuson went all in, ordering every title on the official Record Store Day list, which included more than 330 limited-edition vinyl drops.

Windsor, ON | Vinyl lovers jam out at Windsor shops on Record Store Day: In an era where background noise squeals louder than ever, Jason Hoffer finds peace in the tunes flowing out of his record player. The owner of Going Thru Vinyl Records on Ottawa Street believes it can help overcome the world’s “divisive” nature. “My wife, daughter, and I go upstairs into the attic, we put on records, and we put all the devices away, and I just drop the needle,” Hoffer told CTV News. On Saturday, Hoffer’s passion was shared with hundreds of customers who waltzed through his door in search of the newest record to add to their collection. As part of Record Store Day, recognized in markets across the world, music aficionados celebrate independent brick-and-mortar businesses, and their collective passion. In its 18th edition, shops like Hoffers are filled with unique offerings which include limited edition or new vinyl. “It’s probably the best [release] list ever since the beginning of Record Store Day,” Hoffer said.

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Hattiesburg, MS | ‘Record Store Day’ focuses on independent music stores: Family-owned music stores across the U.S. were celebrated Saturday as part of Record Store Day. It’s a semi-annual event focused on independent music stores, like T-Bones Records & Cafe in Hattiesburg. “It’s so fun seeing all the people online with their lists, prepared, excited, ready for music, ready for the experience of being in a record store, which is something that I am pleased to say, seems to be crossing generations,” said Mik Davis, T Bones Records & Cafe record store manager. Saturday, the record store had several new vinyl releases, live music and other activities to celebrate Record Store Day. Among the customers buying vinyl records was Laila Rollin, who was visiting from California. “I just like the old-fashioned nature of it,” Rollin said. “There’s just something about the sound of one that’s coming out of that record player.”

Louisville, KY | Record Store Day was celebrated nationally and in Louisville Saturday. Record Store Day sings to music lovers with coveted special releases and discounts for vinyl albums. Several stores around Louisville participated including Better Days Records on Barret Avenue and Guestroom Records on Frankfort Avenue. Some fans lined up for hours, while some braved the outdoor elements overnight for their chance to get rare and coveted albums. There were music giveaways and discounts on records. “It’s a really lovely celebration where we get a lot of new customers that have never been here before that really want this limited release that is only out for Record Store Day and we get to make a lot of new friends and bring a lot of people in,” said Lisa Foster, owner of Guestroom Records. Foster estimated around 200 to 300 people were waiting in line for doors to open Saturday morning.

Chicago, IL | Long lines, rare finds mark Record Store Day in Chicago: If you’re a fan of vinyl records, Saturday was your day. Music lovers from coast to coast celebrated National Record Store Day — and Chicago, the birthplace of so much great music, was no exception. The line outside Reckless Records in the Loop stretched down the block. Some audiophiles camped out as early as 2 a.m. “You can’t play around with days like this, man. You end up coming here at 5 a.m. thinking you’re coming early. The whole line will be down the street. You won’t even get what you want,” said Wanya. And what they want might be hard to find. “We love Record Store Day because it has people coming into the store. That’s important. We’re really happy about that.”

Indio, CA | Coachella 2025: Record Safari returns for the festival for Record Store Day: Fans lined up hoping to catch rare finds, Coachella artist vinyl records and more. While DJs spin their records and headliners take the stage with breathtaking performances at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Indio, fans can get a little piece of the action to take home with them at the festival’s Record Safari. This year, Record Store Day landed on Saturday, April 12, during the first weekend of Coachella, offering fans the opportunity to participate in what has become an international celebration of vinyl collection at independently owned brick-and-mortar record stores around the world. At Coachella’s Record Safari, fans can visit a fully air-conditioned shop right by the festival’s entrance to explore a collection of used and new records curated by Alex Rodriguez, who previously owned the Glass House Record Store in Pomona, which closed last year.

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Rochester, NY | Record Store Day 2025: Fans line up in hopes for exclusive titles. It’s that time of year! Despite the damp outside, record collectors and music fans alike lined the doors of record stores across the country to grab some new, exclusive titles—including in Rochester. Our News 8 crews headed to Record Archive just before 9 a.m. Saturday, where there were hundreds of fans lined up hoping to get everything on their list. On the coveted ‘RSD 2025’ list this go-round: Taylor Swift & Post Malone’s “Fortnight,” Gracie Abrams’ “Live from Radio City Music Hall,” an exclusive pressing of the 2024 “Wicked” soundtrack — just to name a few. Where did you shop for Record Store Day 2025? Did you get everything on your list?

Alexandria, VA | Vinyl enthusiasts line up overnight at Crooked Beat Records for Record Store Day: Music enthusiasts lined up for hours—some overnight—outside Crooked Beat Records (2417 Mt. Vernon Ave.) in Del Ray on Saturday for the annual Record Store Day celebration, hoping to score limited-edition vinyl releases. By 8:39 a.m., approximately 120 people had formed a line outside the independent record store. The first customers had arrived nearly 12 hours before the doors opened at 9 a.m. Carol from Arlington arrived around 9 p.m. Friday night to secure her spot at the front of the line. She camped out with her fiancé to ensure they could purchase Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman: Wu-Tang, The Saga Continues Collection by Wu-Tang Clan and DJ Mathematics. “It was very cold,” Carol says about the overnight wait. “But just got to spend some bonding time with my fiancé.” …Nevertheless, the wait proved worthwhile as she obtained everything on her wish list.

Savannah, GA | People camp out to score exclusive items on Record Store Day: Saturday was a big day for vinyl enthusiasts around the country, it’s record store day! To celebrate, artists will release special vinyl’s and Cd’s made just for the day, just to be sold at independent record stores. This led to people lining up outside of Coastal Empire Records on Wilmington Island all night, just so they could get their hands on these exclusive items. Some we spoke with said they were determined to find certain records only available Saturday. “Coming specifically for a band from the 80s called Tesla, and they got an album called Real Real 2, which is like a cover of Classic Rock. And I’ve got on CD, but it’s the first time I’m pressing on vinyl, so that’s why I’m here,” said Rich Leach. People camped out as early as Friday afternoon to get their hands on their favorite records.

Seattle, WA | Easy Street Records hopping for Record Store Day 2025: Never a dull day at Easy Street Records in the heart of The Junction, but as previewed in our Saturday list, this one is really jumping—it’s Record Store Day, which offers special deals, treats, and sights. WSB contributing journalist Jason Grotelueschen sent a few scenes: Making an appearance for just a few hours, that’s the legendary touring van used by The Melvins, featuring art by Kurt Cobain. Past the van and on down Alaska, people were still lined up as of about an hour ago. Inside the shop, Easy Street proprietor Matt Vaughan is the busiest man in showbiz, with freebies as well as sales—he told us about 500 people were in line when the store opened at 7 am!

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IN | Indy record stores prepare for Record Store Day: …Indy CD & Vinyl stated that their store will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 12, with all limited edition and exclusive records available. According to the store’s website, all RSD titles will be alphabetized at the front of the store, and only a few guests will be able to enter at a time. Meanwhile, new, non-RSD records, greeting cards/postcards, CDs and t-shirts will be 10% off. While supplies last, Indy CD & Vinyl will also give away free items, such as goodie bags and door prizes. The store said it will also hold a scavenger hunt for a $100 shop gift card and provide free concert tickets. RSD items are unavailable for preorders or holds, Indy CD & Vinyl stated. However, the store said they will take phone orders starting at 1 p.m., yet those in line will be given priority.

Louisville, KY | Here’s Your Guide to Record Store Day 2025 in Louisville: Find hundreds of exclusive RSD-only releases in these local record stores. Audiophiles, vinyl-heads, and music junkies: your Christmastime is here! Record Store Day returns this Saturday, April 12th with hundreds of exclusive, limited edition releases spanning practically every genre of music! You can find the list of this year’s titles at recordstoreday.com. Since 2008, independently-owned brick and mortar record stores around the world have been the focus of Record Store Day, which is devoted to celebrating the role they play in their communities and the people who make them spin: the staff who run them, customers who shop them, and the artists who make the music they sell. As always, several local record stores are participating.

Merseyside, UK | Record Store Day 2025: what’s happening in Merseyside. This Saturday (April 12), music lovers across Merseyside will descend upon independent record stores for Record Store Day, an annual event dedicated to celebrating the unique culture of indie stores. The annual event celebrates independent record stores across the UK and the world with special vinyl releases, artist performances, and exclusives. Going on 18 years and still spinning, Record Store Day is a chance to support local indies and keep vinyl alive. Merseyside stores participating on the day include Rough Trade, Probe Records, 81 Renshaw, The Musical Box, Jacaranda Records, Quicksilver Music, Dark Earth, and Kaleidoscope Records. Dave Strong, owner of 81 Renshaw, said: “The big ones this year are Taylor Swift, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish. Sam fender has got an EP out, he’s also the ambassador for RSD.

FL | Record Store Day in SWFL: What is happening and where to go. It’s that time of the year again: Record Store Day 2025 is around the corner, and here in Southwest Florida, it’s looking to be a busy day. Record Store Day is an annual event where local record stores bring in exclusive titles and offer great deals on their inventory. This is the 17th rendition of this music holiday, which brings attention to local, independent record stores. This year, it will be held on Saturday, April 12, with local stores adjusting their hours. In Southwest Florida, four record stores will be partaking. Joe’s Record Exchange in downtown Fort Myers will open at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, contrary to their usual 11 a.m. opening. They are also expecting a line, so get there early to get first dibs on records. They posted boxes of records on their Facebook, alluding to this event.

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Wheeling, WV | Nail City Record in Wheeling will have exclusive vinyl, limited merch for Record Store Day: Mark your calendars, Record Store Day (RSD) returns on Saturday, April 12, 2025, and Nail City Record is ready. Door open to the Wheeling record shop at 10 AM, but if last year was any indication, expect people lining up well before then. The first person in line last year arrived at 11 PM the night before. “We love bringing Record Store Day to our customers,” says Molly, co-owner of Nail City Record. “People drive from far and wide to be a part of the day with us. It’s an incredible day for music lovers and a chance to connect with the community.”

MN | Where to Shop in the Twin Cities for Record Store Day 2025: Don’t miss out on a day full of exclusive vinyl hunting and live music. Get up bright and early and head over to your favorite independent record shop for Record Store Day on Saturday, April 12. Hundreds of artists and bands are releasing exclusive vinyl available for one day only. This special holiday for vinyl enthusiasts began in 2008 as a way for independent record stores to come together and celebrate the role they play in the music community. You can find RSD releases in a variety of genres for both indie and mainstream artists. Minnesota rockers have plenty to choose from. The Jayhawks are releasing a RSD exclusive for their second album Blue Earth, which hasn’t been on LP since it was originally released in 1989.

Richmond, VA | Take a Spin: Record Store Day celebrations at Richmond’s independent music shops. The 17th edition of Record Store Day, hosted worldwide on April 12, celebrates music at independent retail outlets, whether flowing out of the rainbow spectrum, reflected on vinyl or realized in other formats. Jim Bland of the venerable Plan 9 Music in Carytown says he thinks the store was the first in the region to join Record Store Day. “Artists will release singles specifically timed for this date,” he says. There’s a combination of new and old: Taylor Swift is scheduled to release a 7-inch vinyl single, and there’ll be a limited edition Grateful Dead box set and plenty of jazz reissues. “Really, every kind of music gets some attention,” Bland says. At Plan 9, stop, look and listen for DJs during the day, plus in-store performances.

Chicago, IL | Vinyl fans set to pack shops for Record Store Day: Vinyl lovers will be up early on Saturday, April 12, lining up outside independent record stores to celebrate Record Store Day — a global event that gives fans a chance to dig through crates, score exclusive releases and support local music shops. Beverly Records: In Chicago, Beverly Records will once again be a destination for crate-diggers. At 8 a.m., the family-run shop at 11612 S. Western Ave. will open its doors for what has become a neighborhood tradition. “We’re thrilled to share that Beverly Records has exciting plans lined up to celebrate this special occasion with our community of vinyl enthusiasts,” said John Dreznes, son of owner Jack Dreznes. …“We always see a great turnout for Record Store Day,” Dreznes said. “It’s always amazing to see how passionate people are about vinyl.”

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UK | Ahead of Record Store Day, Official Charts Company marks first decade of vinyl albums chart: As the UK gears up for Record Store Day this weekend (April 12), the Official Charts Company is marking 10 years since the launch of the Official Vinyl Albums Chart and Official Vinyl Singles Chart. The charts were launched amid the nascent resurgence in vinyl sales, which has now been established for 17 years—and Q1 showed another surge in sales. Ten years on, more vinyl records are purchased today than 30 years ago, while younger fans are increasingly drawn to the format. According to Official Charts data, new pop albums accounted for seven out of 10 of the UK’s annual best-sellers of non-catalogue titles on vinyl over the past decade, with releases from Taylor Swift, Adele, Kylie Minogue and ABBA topping end-of-year Official Vinyl Chart rankings.

Sault Ste. Marie, ON | The Rad Zone promises ‘nothing but good vibes’ Record Store Day: Queen Street East retailer to feature sales, vinyl listening party, other goodies April 12. Imagine being surrounded by kindred spirits, all worshipping an analog sound storage medium in the form of a flat disc. No, this is not a reference to a Flat Earth Society gathering, but something much more electric. Record Store Day, the 18th annual celebration of independent record stores is April 12 and, as sure as the stylus tracks a record’s groove, the atmosphere within participating venues promises to be alive with chatter devoted to everything from beloved B-sides to recent releases. That’s how The Rad Zone’s long-time manager Melodie Taylor envisions the vibe within her Queen Street East store that day. And she ought to know; Taylor’s been at the helm of many such Rad Zone gatherings, annual music love fests she holds near and dear.

Aotearoa, NZ | Spotlight: Record Store Day—Aotearoa New Zealand Events 2025: You don’t need to be a vinyl obsessive to enjoy the cavalcade of events, activities and initiatives happening across Aotearoa’s finest independent musical outlets for Record Store Day 2025, this Saturday 12th April. Scope out our rundown below, investigate the massive list of this year’s RSD releases HERE and circumvent the tyranny of online algorithms by supporting those heroes in your community flying the flag for irl releases Note: only stores currently promoting RSD events are included below…

Geelong, AU | Geelong and your favourite regional stores are prepping for Record Store Day with special stock and local performances: On Saturday 12 April, independent record stores Australia-wide will celebrate vinyl culture the only way they know how; with even more music! From free in-store performances, a full day of DJs and your favourite regional acts making some noise, Record Store Day Australia will see over 200 independent record shops from all across Australia cementing its status as a treasured day for music lovers and collectors alike. Check out what our local stores have cooked up for us to enjoy!

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US | 50 Million More Americans Are Paying for Music Now Than in 2014: The industry is seeing increases in streaming subscriptions, physical purchasing, and live attendance. A decade ago, the music industry was at a low point; today, it’s a different story. According to a new report from MusicWatch, the population of people paying for music is breaking records, with consumer spending significantly higher than it was in 2014 (even when adjusting for inflation). The new data reveals that 132 million Americans are currently paying for music subscriptions, a number that includes on-demand subscriptions in addition to satellite radio and fee-based internet radio services. That’s 50 million more than the numbers gathered in 2014. Additionally, in 2024, more than half of Americans between the ages of 13 and 70 purchased a CD, download, vinyl, or an on-demand or non-interactive subscription (excluding satellite radio). This data echoes an increase in vinyl sales, which analytics company Luminate confirmed increased by 6% in 2024.

Tavistock, UK | Vinyl fans to scoop limited editions: Vinyl fans are expected to queue for hours when their local record stores sell limited editions on one day only. Only independent record stores like Tavistock’s Rival Records in Paddon’s Row and Bookstop, on Market Street, take part in Record Store Day on Saturday (April 12). Top artists are included in the 400 recordings which are only on sale on that day in 280 shops. Customers should queue early, because they are sold on a first-come-first served basis, with no pre-buying. Rival Records owner John Chapple said: “Record Store Day is a celebration of independent record stores. I’ll have 200 titles including the Gallagher Brothers acoustic sessions and Elton John’s Rainbow Theatre concert.” Paddon’s Row cafe Mime will serve food from 6.30am.

UK | You’d be a mug to miss Record Store Day: This is the last column before Record Store Day and from a record shop’s viewpoint the mayhem has just started, with large deliveries of boxes all needing checked and processed in time for the big day and then stored away. We were already running out of space so that last bit is actually quite important. We have very strong Avalanche jute bags that we use when people make large vinyl purchases and we had four huge boxes of these very bags arrive at our back door this week in readiness for the big day. After some moving around we did find a space for them but with the majority of our RSD titles still to arrive it is not clear at the moment where they are all going to go. I didn’t help matters recently by ordering several king size boxes of One Direction mugs.

Herefordshire, UK | New record shop launches on National Record Store Day: The Retro Station in Leominster Celebrates National Record Store Day with launch of new record shop, open day and doggy fancy dress competition. Retro Records, Herefordshire’s newest record shop, officially launches on May 12 to coincide with national Record Store Day. The shop run by Mark Parker is selling new and used vinyl, CDs and musical instruments, plus there are two listening booths—so you can try before you buy. There is also a mezzanine Coffee and Cake Station where you can sit in or takeaway. To celebrate the launch in their own quirky way, The Retro Station are running a fancy dress competition for your furry friends! They are asking for you to bring your dog along on Saturday 12th in a music inspired costume, best costume at the end of the day will scoop a £20 voucher from Kulamoo Hounds and a £30 voucher from Retro Records.

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Chicago, IL | Wrigley launches blues record shop and jersey: To celebrate Chicago’s contribution to the blues, the Cubs, in collaboration with Delmark Records, have launched a new blue jersey and music store called Landmark Records. Driving the news: The store opens Friday in Wrigley’s Gallagher Way plaza, offering records, jerseys, music-themed merch and live performances by local musicians all season. Zoom in: The store’s selection expands to Wrigley’s wider music history with Grateful Dead items, “a guitar signed by Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl and Pearl Jam merch, because, as you know, they’re also big fans,” Cubs executive Jennifer Martindale tells Axios Yes, but: What’s up with the Beverly Sills LPs in record bins?

Manchester, UK | Johnny Marr honoured as ‘Record Store Legend’ with Manchester plaque for Record Store Day 2025: He is the second recipient of the accolade alongside Elton John. Johnny Marr will be honoured as a ‘Record Store Legend’ with a Manchester plaque for Record Store Day 2025. The guitarist, songwriter, soloist and former Smiths legend will be awarded the accolade for his “enduring influence on music and his unwavering support for independent record stores worldwide, as well as the love and admiration for Marr and his music that comes from record stores themselves. To honour Marr, a plaque has been unveiled at the guitarist’s favourite record shop, Manchester’s Piccadilly Records. …Speaking about the achievement, Marr said: “Going out to a record store, it’s a nice pastime. It’s a part of the culture, if they were to completely disappear, the high street or the city centre would be a much worse off place. There’s something about the presence of a record store. It’s a magical thing…”

Bozeman, MT | Cactus Record’s Annual Record Store Day Event: 18th annual Record Store Day at Cactus Records. Over 300 exclusive vinyl releases, live music from 11am-7pm and raffle prizes including turntables, speakers, and concert tickets! April 12th is the annual Record Store Day, the biggest day of the year for any music lover! The 18th annual Record Store Day is bringing more than 300 special vinyl LP releases to store shelves, featuring hits from Taylor Swift, Gorillaz, Charli XCX and other prominent artists from the past century of music. Live music from local musicians such as Peter King, Alex Robilotta, and Madeline Hawthorne will be going on from 11AM-6PM. Feeling lucky? Enter the RSD raffle for a chance to win goodies like a turntable, concert tickets for The Elm, and much more. Doors open at 9AM!

Sandy, UT | A resurgence in vinyl record albums for 2025: Vinyl albums were once thought of as a relic of the past but in the last 18 years, there has been a remarkable interest in hearing music on a turntable. Hipsters, collectors and mainstream consumers are showing an interest in vinyl as a way to share a love of music. The Carpenters, Tina Turner, Bad Company, The Who and Donny and Marie were just some of the many classic albums that were available for purchase last month during the Vinyl Revival at Millcreek Common. Jackson Gray, who works for Millcreek Common said, “We are focusing on mostly old records but got some CDs to sell too. There have been a lot more people for this event.” Band tees and other music memorabilia were also being sold at the event. Sponsor KRCL provided CDs and old cassette tapes for a dollar each.

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AU | Australian Vinyl Record Prices Set to Rise Again in May 2025: Vinyl record prices are set to rise again. Universal Music Australia has confirmed that prices will increase on May 5th. In a letter to retail partners Alisa Lai, VP of Commercial at Universal Music Group Australia, states that, “Due to cost pressures in materials, manufacturing, and logistics, we are required to implement a PPD increase across a selected range of vinyl titles, despite our best efforts to absorb this increase in costs.” Brisbane record seller Wax Lyrical shared Universal’s letter on Instagram, expressing concern over the rising costs. “Becoming impossible to exist,” they share. …My view is this. The joy of collecting won’t fade, but the collecting dynamic will certainly shift.

Pharr, TX | Vinyl Frontier: The Record Store That Resurrects Rio Grande Valley’s Lost Grooves. In the middle of the 20th century, the South Texas border region became the epicenter of influential, international musical styles. Labels like Falcon Records, in the farming community of McAllen, and Rio Grande Music Company, in San Benito, the birthplace of Texas music legend Freddy Fender, put on vinyl genres that mixed musical styles from across Mexico with those of local performers and European immigrants. There flourished Tejano Conjunto, small groups that prominently feature the button accordion from central Europe and the bajo sexto, a stringed instrument popular in Mexico that provides a bass line. There sprouted the orquestas tejanas, larger groups that incorporate horn sections. And there took root norteño, a blend of genres with a more prominent bass and percussion.

Lichfield, UK | Stylus Records celebrate their third Record Store Day: Stylus Records Limited is excited to announce that it will be celebrating its third Record Store Day on Saturday, April 12, bringing music lovers together for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Lichfield. This annual event honours the unique culture of independent record stores around the world and is set to be a day of exclusive releases, live energy, and community camaraderie. Located in the charming Grade II listed building at Minster Pool Walk, Stylus Records has quickly become a local music haven since opening in 2022. With its eclectic mix of new and pre-owned vinyl albums, CDs singles, and cassettes spanning every genre, the store has built a loyal following of customers, who rely on Tim and his passionate team of music enthusiasts for their expert knowledge and personalised service.

Newton Abbot, UK | Record shop’s last ‘Record Store Day’ before moving to new premises: A Newton Abbot record shop is preparing for this year’s Record Store Day and it will be the last before moving to new premises Roger and Marsha Cox, owners of Phoenix Sounds, the town’s independent record store, are looking forward to bringing the town together for Record Store Day 2025 on Saturday, April 12 at their shop on Queen Street. Not least because it is one of the most significant dates in any vinyl enthusiast’s diary, but also because it will be the couple’s last in their current premises. The store will move to East Street, a stones throw from the clock tower, in June. Doors will open at 8am, where keen collectors can snap up rare and limited-edition Record Store Day releases on a strictly first-come, first-served basis – once they’re gone, they truly are gone, Phoenix Sounds says. ‘Record Store Day is a highlight for us.’

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UK | Ahead of Record Store Day, physical sales surge in Q1 as UK artists make a chart impact: Physical music sales have surged in Q1 for 2025, Music Week can reveal. The results come ahead of Record Store Day this month, which has traditionally delivered a huge boost for physical music early in the second quarter of the year. Sam Fender, who is the Record Store Day UK ambassador, had the biggest-selling physical release in Q1 with People Watching (Polydor). The UK singer-songwriter moved 103,101 physical units of his third album (142,419 units in total). People Watching is the biggest album of Q1 among titles released in 2025. It is No.2 overall behind fellow Polydor artist Sabrina Carpenter’s 2024 LP Short N’ Sweet (196,059 units in 2025—596,016 in total). There were also strong Q1 results in the albums rankings for UK acts Ed Sheeran, Central Cee, Elton John and Charli XCX, while Lola Young had the biggest single of the quarter with Messy.

Petaluma, CA | Coming to Petaluma: Record Store Day. April has arrived, and with it—hopefully soon—spring weather. As I write this, it’s a rainy day, but I’m looking ahead to sunnier days, perfect for sitting under a tree with headphones on and reading a book. Good thing we’ve got two big dates coming up this month to help facilitate such leisure activity. Record Store Day on Saturday, April 12, and Indie Bookstore Day on Saturday, April 26. I can’t speak for the record store end of things, but I’m sure our local music vendors—including Rain Dog Records and Paradise Found—are doing plenty of behind-the-scenes work to bring the awesome this year. That’s what we’re doing at the Word Horde Emporium of the Weird & Fantastic and the folks at Copperfield’s are reportedly doing as well. After all, with exclusive products, giveaways, and more, it’s a lot to look forward to each year.

Bemidji, MN | Celebrate Record Store Day with KAXE/KBXE on April 12 in Bemidji: KAXE/KBXE’s Record Store Day sale is 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Rail River Folk School in Bemidji. Shop for gently used vinyl and CDs. Record Store Day began across the United States in 2008. In 2015, there weren’t any record stores in our listening area or even many places to buy vinyl. So KAXE/KBXE started hosting an annual pop-up used vinyl and CD sale at various locations in Bemidji. Join us this year on the internationally celebrated Record Store Day, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. April 12 at Rail River Folk School in Bemidji. Sift through bins and crates of donated music to find some “new to you” treasures. Even if you are not looking to add to your collection, it’s always a fun community of music lovers gathering with some of our on-air volunteers spinning vinyl throughout.

Adelaide, AU | Seven of the best record stores in Adelaide: Record Store Day is less than two weeks away, so we’ve teamed up with seven of our favourite record stores to give you the lowdown on what they are about and why you should visit them. Crackle & Pop Records: Founded by Mark Cnotek in 2014, Crackle & Pop Records began as a stall at Gilles Street Markets. Arriving at a time when demand for vinyl was on the up, Mark’s side hustle exploded in popularity, with the stall transforming into a mobile pop-up that has since set up digs at pubs, festivals and fairs across the state. Mark handed the Crackle & Pop Records reins over to Adam and Jack Buckley in 2023. The father-and-son duo have relished the opportunity to continue the founder’s legacy, travelling with the pop-up interstate and, most recently, finding it a permanent home at Adelaide’s latest (and biggest) vintage marketplace.

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Davenport, IA | Record Store Day at Ragged Records Store April 12: Ragged Records in Davenport and Rock Island will host a special event for Record Store Day on Saturday, April 12, and open an hour early at 9 a.m. at both locations. The Quad Cities business said its the biggest day of the year for vinyl record collectors. Ragged Records will be ordering an extensive amount of the Limited Edition Exclusive titles for Record Store Day. Ragged Records and Gnar City Clothing will be giving away special Record Store Day tote bags to the first 250 customers—the first 200 at its Ragged Records and Trash Can Annie store in downtown Davenport at 311 E. 2nd St., and the first 50 to shoppers at its Rock Island store at 311 1/2 21st St. The Davenport location will also be giving away an undisclosed amount of official Record Store Day tote bags. All tote bags will be stuffed with swag from Ragged and other area businesses.

UK | Record Store Day 2025 – Which Kent and East Sussex stores are taking part? More than 270 independent record shops across the UK. Mark your calendars! Record Store Day (RSD) returns for its 18th edition on Saturday 12th April 2025. More than 270 independent record shops across the UK will gear up for a huge celebration of vinyl releases, in-store parties and independent record store culture. Now in its 18th year, RSD brings together artists, labels, and record stores across the country to celebrate the unique culture of independent shops and the enduring art of vinyl. Fans can expect a stacked list of collectible and limited-edition records from some of the biggest and most exciting names in music. Hundreds of artists have come together to celebrate the UK’s independent record shops, which are at the heart of local communities nationwide.

Leighton Buzzard, UK | Record Store Day is coming to Leighton Buzzard: Black Circle Records in Leighton Buzzard is excited to be celebrating Record Store Day which takes places on Saturday April 12th. Created to support and celebrate independent record shops this global event has been running since 2008 and this year will be our eighth year celebrating all things vinyl!! We will be stocking approximately 280 limited edition vinyl titles, all of which are exclusive to participating indie record shops, with artists such as Oasis, Taylor Swift, Liam Gallagher, Sam Fender and Charli XCX releasing records especially for the day. We will also have a DJ and live music throughout the day with four local bands playing in store in the afternoon.

Northamptonshire, UK | Vinyl collectors get ready for the return of Record Store Day next weekend: Record Store Day returns next weekend, with hundreds of limited-edition vinyl releases by acts including Charli XCX and Taylor Swift up for grabs In Northamptonshire, two stores will be stocking official releases – Spun Out in Gold Street and Vinyl Underground in Abington Street. Spun Out owner Chris Kent said: “As usual, we’ve had tons of people coming in asking for this year’s releases. “There’s been a lot of requests for the releases by the big pop acts like Charli XCX and Taylor Swift. “Then there’s the usual requests for the Bowies and acts like Madness and everything in between. “Obviously, everything is limited and there’s a lot of stores taking part in Record Store Day, but we try our best to get as much as we can for people.”

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Cardiff, UK | Saying goodbye to D’Vinyl Records—a Cardiff institution: When you approach D’Vinyl Records, the first thing you see is not expensive, neatly arranged vinyl. Instead, adorning the entrance to one of Wales’ best loved record shops, is an unassuming window display consisting of CDs and DVDs. Box sets of Fraiser, Cheers and the Star Wars Trilogy peer through the glass like relics from the pre-streaming age. CD copies of Super Furry Animals’ Fuzzy Logic, The Who’s Quick One and a Sam Cook compilation stare back at you as if Spotify never existed. This unpretentious introduction is a key part of the attraction. On Wednesday morning, the first day of trading since owner Steve Collins suddenly announced that this week would be D’Vinyl’s last, the usually quiet shop was teeming with music lovers. All looking for a bargain and for many, to say farewell to a place they’ve loved over the years.

Long Beach, CA | 33-year track record continues for Fingerprints Music in new Long Beach location: Long Beach’s largest record store, Fingerprints Music, is moving from their well-known downtown storefront. See how the owner seeks to continue building community through live concerts, events and physical music. In a time where digital music is increasingly more popular and convenient, Fingerprints Music owner Rand Foster, 61, opens daily to the general public with an appreciation for vinyl records, CDs, cassette tapes and all things music. Originally opening its doors in July 1992 on 2nd Street, and moving to a well-known downtown location on E. 4th Street 14 years ago, Fingerprints Music has sought to provide a curated repertoire for all genres and generations of music across Long Beach for 33 years. Now, Fingerprints is making another move as incoming construction to the neighborhood limits access to the storefront.

Suffolk, UK | Meet the business owners of Pop Kulture in Beccles, Suffolk: A trio of business owners have opened a new shop in the heart of a market town. Kelly Polley, Kayleigh Lawn, and David Crothers have come together and opened Pop Kulture in 40 Blyburgate, Beccles. From vinyl records, handmade bags, and luxury candles, the new premises in Suffolk showcases products from each of trio’s own businesses all under one roof. The trio, who all live around Beccles, said it has been “going really well” with a “lot of positive feedback.” Ms Polley said: “We all have a laugh and we really love it. “It is really nice that it is local products.” …Ms Polley said the idea of the group opening a shop together has been in the works for last “seven to eight months.” She said: “We thought we would love to have a shop but couldn’t find one until now.”

Bath, UK | Legendary rockers Manic Street Preachers supporting Bath record store: The legendary band are throwing their weight behind a good cause. Legendary rock band Manic Street Preachers have signed vinyl editions of their albums for a charity raffle in Bath next month. All proceeds from the raffle, which is taking place at Resolution Records at Green Park Station in April, will be going to mental health charity Mind. Ruby Lawson, 19, is originally from Wales but moved to Bath for her studies. She juggles her degree with working at Resolution Records three days a week, which inspired her to set up the raffle. Half the proceeds will be going to Newport Mind and half will be going to Bath Mind, in honour of her hometown and her current home. …Getting the Manic Street Preachers on board wasn’t as hard as you might think: “I’ve known Nick [bassist Nicky Wire] since I was quite young. He’s a friend of my family.”

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Spokane, WA | Iconic Spokane record shop takes another spin: Former music teacher buys 4000 Holes as founder retires after 36 years. A new owner is flipping records at 4000 Holes Record Store, the 36-year-old Monroe Street music shop on Spokane’s North Side. Rathdrum resident Isaac Robbins took over the business last month after having acquired it from founder Bob Gallagher, who has retired. The business purchase includes an inventory of about 40,000 vinyl records, nearly 30,000 compact discs, some audio equipment and accessories, and other music-related merchandise. Robbins says the vinyl inventory includes more new records than used, although some of the used records had been in crates on floor and under bins where they weren’t visible. “I am finding a lot of used,” he says. “There was a lot of stuff on the floor that I still need to bring up and display.” Like his predecessor, Robbins continues to market the shop as an independent record store specializing in rock ’n’ roll vinyl and Beatles memorabilia.

Cincinnati, OH | Spinning through local record stores: A search for a copy of ”Rumors” winds through local record shops, reviving memories and cementing a love for vinyl. This week was spring break and Tony McCosham had seen me having so much fun on my adventures with the kids that he decided he wanted in. He planned an elaborate but brilliant road trip to Cleveland and Niagara Falls for the end of the week. Not only did this sound like a good time, but this trip gave me an entire three days all to myself. All to myself. It was the greatest gift of all; major props and points to Tony McCosham. I would rest, I would write, I would eat ice cream for dinner and answer to no one. I would also hunt down an original Rumors album. I have recently gotten into vinyl after not understanding what the big deal was. In college I heard hipsters touting the superiority of vinyl, casually dropping they’d “listened to Paul Simon on vinyl” during a study session.

Owensboro, KY | Displaced Pages opening brick-and-mortar bookstore and record shop in Owensboro: A new independent book and record store is coming to Owensboro this spring, as siblings Virginia and Josh Hardesty are preparing to open Displaced Pages at 1359 East 4th Street. The shop will offer a mix of new and used books across a variety of genres, including fiction, nonfiction, romance, fantasy, and music biographies. While the initial inventory won’t include children’s books, Virginia Hardesty said they plan to offer a wide selection for adult readers, along with book-themed merchandise like candles, tote bags, and tumblers. The store will also carry vinyl records, both new and used — a nod to Josh’s past experience working at The Money Tree and his deep knowledge of music. Hardesty said they hope to stay current with new releases while also providing hard-to-find vintage titles. “I think people are starting to swing back toward physical media…”

New York, NY | Inside the tiny NYC record store where you could run into Bella Hadid, Bono or see Lana Del Rey smoking: When Bella Hadid wants another Broadway soundtrack on vinyl or Bono seeks a rare original Rolling Stones record, they head downtown to see their buddy Jamal Alnasr. Alnasr is the go-to vinyl hunter — yes, those discs that spun in the ’70s have had their popularity revived — for everyone from Lana Del Rey and Carlos Santana to Joe Schmo and tourists alike at his shop, Village Revival Records, in the heart of Greenwich Village. “Especially here in New York. You get the drunk-y, you get the superstar, you get everything when you live in New York,” he told The Post. And he would know. The Palestinian immigrant opened his record shop in 1994 after working at a family friend’s store around the corner for a few years. Over 30 years later, he remains selling records, CDs, cassettes and DVDs from what’s very likely become the city’s most impressive and extensive collection of music.

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Hattiesburg, MS | Album Listening Parties Boost Sales at Indie Record Stores: With vinyl’s resurgence among teens and young adults, independent record stores have experienced a boost in sales. However, these stores continue to struggle to compete with the convenience and selection offered by big-box retailers, which often stock the popular new albums that younger audiences seek. To support independent stores, record labels are now hosting exclusive album listening parties at local shops to drive more foot traffic. Record stores can sign up to receive promotional materials and host listening events for newly released albums. Typically held on the release date, these events feature the full album being played in-store, with fans invited to purchase exclusive products, receive freebies, and enter contests to win prizes, such as signed albums or merchandise.

Mt. Airy, PA | Mt. Airy’s vinyl haven curates Black culture: When you walk into SOOK Vinyl & Vintage in Mt. Airy, you’re stepping into more than Philadelphia’s only Black-owned record store. You’re entering a vibrant time capsule of cultural history. The shop at 7169 Germantown Ave. (whose entrance is actually on Mt. Airy Avenue) is a modern take on Dickens’s “The Old Curiosity Shop.” Every inch of space is chockablock with treasures: more than 7,000 vinyl records spanning 33s, 45s, and even 78 RPMs, alongside vintage CDs, VCR tapes, antique toys, paintings, clothing, books, photos, figurines, and cultural artifacts of every conceivable variety. Proprietor Rashied Amon proudly displays a 45-RPM record on Utopia Records featuring Howard Tate singing “You’re Looking Good” and “Half-a-Man.” His eyes light up as he reveals, “This is one of only two in existence. The other one is in Japan.”

Monmouth, UK | BBC radio presenter and rapper collaborate to open record store in Monmouth: Graham Taylor and Gary Raymond, inspired by their love for music, have opened Grinning Soul Records, a new record shop in Monmouth. Graham Taylor, otherwise known as Graham the Bear from Goldie Lookin’ chain, and BBC broadcast presenter and author Gary Raymond have shared their love of music by opening a new record shop, Grinning Soul Records in Monmouth. The shop sits alongside other long established businesses in the town’s White Swan Court and opened late last year. The owners have been friends since they were at school together in Newport and last year decided to begin a new adventure by opening their very own record shop and putting their passion for the music industry into a career they both enjoy. Graham told the Monmouthshire Beacon: “The welcome in Monmouth was lovely.”

Long Beach, CA | The record store that launched Snoop Dogg wants to become a museum. Can it happen? In his 53 years behind the counter at VIP Records, Kelvin Anderson has watched the natural progression of West Coast music — in style and format — change over the decades. It’s a rich history he has wanted, for years, to showcase in a museum. And where better than in Long Beach, at his shop, which played a pivotal role in hip-hop’s entrance into American art and culture? On Tuesday, Anderson and his family pitched his vision to civic leaders, artists and friends to purchase the lot where his record store sits and convert it into a museum with food and live entertainment. …The event, organized by the nonprofit Creative Class Collective, is part of a yearslong effort to convert the space, and it comes as the World Famous VIP Records sign is set to be restored across the street as a historical landmark.

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Biloxi, MS | Behind the Business: Marley’s Music. In this week’s Behind the Business, we’re in Biloxi where music is medicine. Located in the heart of downtown Biloxi, Marley’s Music has created an oasis for music lovers of all genres— to not only buy nostalgic records, but also sell them. Inside the business, located on Ohr Street, you’re greeted with many objects most consider a thing of the past. “I’ve been collecting records since I was about 10 or 11, and it was something that I was interested in, it was something I knew about,” said owner Marley Roberts. Now in his adult years, Roberts has built that collection into a business— buying, selling, and trading vinyl records and CDs of all genres. “I have people that come into the shop and they’re like, ‘Oh it must be great sitting around listening to music all day.’ But I don’t get to really sit around listening to music because I’m checking records…

Indianapolis, IN | Record Store Day 2025 is next month. Here’s what record stores in Indy are participating: Record Store Day, the day where music lovers and vinyl record collectors line up outside their favorite record store for exclusive pressings of their favorite albums, has been announced for 2025. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning to shop RSD 2025 in Indy. What is Record Store Day? Record Store Day (RSD) was started to celebrate the culture of independent record stores, not owned by corporations. By partnering with musicians to release exclusive pressings of records, it encourages record lovers to show up to support their favorite local record stores instead of shopping at big box stores. Record Store Day is celebrated at independently-owned brick-and-mortar record stores around the world.

Dallas, TX | Charley Crockett performs at Good Records, dedicates show to Chris Penn: The shop’s co-founder suffered paralysis after injuring his spine in a recent fall. Texas troubadour Charley Crockett played a bittersweet homecoming set Saturday at Good Records, dedicating his new songs to the shop’s co-founder and manager Chris Penn. Penn — who’s been organizing in-store appearances like this one for 25 years — fell March 17 while working at Good Records, injuring his spine and causing paralysis from the neck down. “Chris, I feel like I owe you some kickbacks for how hard you been promoting me for the last couple of years,” Crockett said in a social media clip filmed at the store. “I want you to know how loved you are …This whole community loves you.” On Thursday, friends launched a GoFundMe page to assist Penn, his wife and children.

Attleboro, MA | Downtown Attleboro store looks to be a hit with throwback to turntable: There’s a new record store in downtown Attleboro. Yes, you read that correctly. And this is 2025, not 1975. Attleboro native Dennis Wagle opened Curmudgeon Records at the corner of North Main and Park streets in October, just recently dropping a part-time job to devote all his efforts to the store and his passion. Wagle, 39, has long been a collector of vinyl, something he said he inherited from his mother, an antiques dealer with a love of music. “I guess I inherited the gene for hoarding,” he said. Wagle loved it when his mom would put a record on the turntable. “I remember staring at it and being mesmerized by it,” he said. “You have this piece of vinyl with grooves in it and you put a needle on it and somehow that makes music.” Last year, Wagle took a look at his life and determined that he needed a change. Why not try something that he knew and loved?

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