Reasons To Support Record Store Day

Attention all vinyl collectors: one of the best days of the year is just around the corner now! Yep, the 17th edition of Record Store Day isn’t far now and, as always, it’s got us more than giddy.

It's such a wholesome, thrilling day, and with hundreds of exclusive releases from both independent and major label artists, we can't wait to get down to our local and take some fresh, crisp records home. 

Participating artists this year include RSD 2024 ambassador Kate Bush, The 1975, Young Fathers, Lil Uzi Vert, Nightmares on Wax, Fleetwood Mac, 100 Gecs, Daft Punk, Olivia Rodrigo & Noah Kahan, Paramore, Jessie Ware, Orbital, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, The Blessed Madonna, Fatboy Slim, Groove Armada, and so, so many more. 

As such, there’s something for everyone with dance, hip-hop, jazz, soul, reggae, pop, rock, classical, and even a release from The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

In preparation for the big day, we reflected on what makes it so great, why it’s so important for record shop owners and artists alike, and why you should get down to your local shop on the day. But before we dive into that, let's cover the basics for those not in the know…

What is Record Store Day?

Photo: Assai Records / Facebook.com 

Record Store Day started in 2008 and was created so that record shops across the world, including over 270 independent record shops all across the UK, can celebrate their unique culture. Special limited edition records are made for the day so local shops can attract customers, helping to keep valuable cultural hubs in our communities thriving. But the day also serves to create an unmatched, electric atmosphere as we unite to celebrate what unites us and makes life so great: music.

When is Record Store Day?

Photo: Record Store Day / Instagram.com 

This year, Record Store Day is going down on Saturday the 20th of April (next Saturday!). Mark your calendars! 

So why should we support it?

You can get your hands on exclusive, limited edition records

Photo: Record Store Day / Instagram.com 

As we mentioned, special releases are made for the day. So if you don’t cop these records on Record Store Day, you won’t see them ever again. Well, okay, you might. But it’ll probably be on eBay after someone else has rubbed their grubby hands all over it and played it a few times before deciding to sell it for the price of a two-bedroom flat in central London. While that’s arguably better than not having it at all, nothing beats taking home a new, clean, beautiful, limited-edition record yourself.

You’ll be supporting independent businesses

Photo: Record Store Day UK / Facebook.com 

Our local shops play vital roles in our communities, exposing people to new music, supporting local artists, and even hosting events. Some shops have even helped to shape and develop our area's culture. For example, Eastern Bloc in Manchester helped bring dance music to the city by being one of the only shops in the UK at the time to import global music. 

It’s a great way to discover new music

Photo: Piccadilly Records / Facebook.com 

Whether it’s because you see a pretty album cover, hear a cool song playing in the shop, or end up chatting to someone who's crate-digging beside you, RSD creates a fantastic, open environment for discovering new tunes. 

You could discover your new favourite shop

Photo: Jacaranda Records / Facebook.com

According to recordstoreday.co.uk, over 270 UK shops are participating in Record Store Day this year, and it’s pretty unlikely you’ll have visited all the shops in your local area. And many shops are unreal hangout spots with cafes, art, bars, and regular live performances. You might end up finding a hidden gem with a vibe you just can’t get enough of!

Lots of shops go hard on Record Store Day

Photo: Assai Records / Facebook.com 

It’s not just “here’s your record, see you later!” Shop owners make a proper day of it by hosting live performances, signings, and more to make it a real celebration of the art we all love so dearly. Some shops even choose to hide their own "golden tickets" in their shops which, if you find one, you can redeem for goodies.

You get to celebrate your love of music amongst like-minded people

Photo: Record Store Day UK - VENUS VINYL. / Facebook.com 

As one of the biggest music events on the calendar, everyone who’s deeply passionate about music will be out and about. 

You might be supporting a great charity

Photo: The Cure / Facebook.com  

WarChild is Record Store Day’s official charity partner. It's the only specialist charity for children who are living through and are affected by conflict. Each year, RSD announces its fundraising activities, such as last year's donation of £1 from every copy sold of selected records. We haven't seen exactly what RSD will be doing for WarChild this year yet but, as usual, we're sure it'll raise a good couple of thousand pounds for a brilliant charity. But we do know there'll be a special The Cure release available for the first time which will be released in partnership with the WarChild initiative. 

Whether you have a record-breaking vinyl collection or don't have a single record to your name, supporting Record Store Day is a brilliant idea. Even if you just go for a browse, we’re sure you’ll have a smashing time and maybe even make some new friends, or discover a really cool shop that you'll want to revisit. 

So, if you can, get out and support your local shops on the 20th of April this year. Happy Record Store Day and happy crate digging!

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

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