Record Store Day

Record Store Day is a global celebration which honours the culture of independent record stores. It serves to highlight the deep-rooted influence and remarkable contribution these stores have made to music over the decades. This Observance presents an opportunity to acknowledge the distinct role and unique character of these institutions, all while reinforcing their significance as active hubs for music communities.

Record Store Day began in 2007 in the United States, yet its impact swiftly extended to the United Kingdom and beyond. Ty Pendlebury, a stalwart of the UK's independent music reportage, hypothesised that the British music lover's reverence for the tactile experience of listening to music was key to the Observance's exponential growth within the nation. Craig Pollard, a leading authority on Britain's music scene, further corroborated this, crediting the day's appeal to nostalgia and the UK's distinct culture of collecting. The day is marked by various events such as in-store performances, meet and greets and special releases. These activities help to galvanise the public’s enduring relationship with music and enlighten individuals to the intrinsic value of the physical format.

In the United Kingdom, Record Store Day has evolved into one of the most eagerly anticipated dates on the music calendar. Independent record shops across the country host events, and production companies coordinate the release of exclusive records that are only available for purchase on this day. British music lovers of all ages and tastes gather to celebrate by buying these special releases, enjoying live performances and participating in other music-related activities. Record Store Day usually takes place on the third Saturday of April each year, with a smaller “Black Friday” event in November. However, the timing can vary, so it is advisable to check the official Record Store Day website for exact dates each year.