Record Store Day News

HUNDREDS OF RECORD SHOPS TO HOST IN-STORE PARTIES ACROSS THE UK AND IRELAND TO CELEBRATE RECORD STORE DAY

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:55:02 GMT

Record Store Day takes place this Saturday, 18th April, with over 300 independent record shops set to celebrate across the UK and Ireland.

Record shops will host live performances, signings, DJ sets and special events to mark the occasion. Vinyl lovers will join record shop queues for a chance to get their hands on the special limited-edition releases, turning high streets into a huge celebration of music and community.

Hundreds of artists are supporting independent record shops with a range of exclusive vinyl releases, including titles from Charli XCX, CMAT, Primal Scream, Robert Plant, The Streets and Wolf Alice, which are available in-store only on the day.

BBC Radio 6 Music

Official Media Partner, 6 Music returns to join the festivities, with Huw Stephens broadcasting live from Monorail Music in Glasgow on Friday 17th April (4-7pm). The broadcast will feature special appearances from Teenage Fanclub, Stuart Braithwaite of Mogwai, and Phoebe I-H from BBC Introducing in Scotland.

Across the weekend, the station will also present a ‘Vinyl Weekender’, featuring a range of live performances, interviews, and vinyl-focused programming.

Huw says: “Record Store Day is a huge deal, and Glasgow certainly loves its records. I’ve been to Monorail Music a few times over the years and having Teenage Fanclub play there, along with a chance to talk to a range of guests during the show, will be very special indeed.”

Selected Live Music & DJ Sets, Special Events, Festivals & Giveaways

Dash The Henge, London – Two-day festival across 4 venues with 40 bands, DJs, and exclusive RSD releases, all on one wristband. Venues include Dash The Henge Store, The Old Dispensary, The Bear Camberwell, and HENGE Brixton, running Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April.
Good Vibes, The False Widow, Leith – Full-day of live music curated by Lost Map Records and Play Nice Presents, featuring Acolyte, Isa Gordon, Tony Morris, Buffet Lunch, and a special guest, followed by an evening vinyl DJ set and live performance from Comfort.
Jacaranda Records, Liverpool – Live music, free hot drinks, a BBQ for early arrivals, and an exclusive Kula Shaker single-sided 7” record for the first 100 people in the queue, including a special recording of Day for Night made using a 1948 Voice-O-Graph and lathe-cut at Fat Monkey Studios.
Le Freak Records, Dundee – Full-day event from 10am - 6pm with vinyl DJ sets and prize giveaways, followed by a takeover at Canvas Dundee from 7 PM–late with more DJ sets and dancing.
LP Cafe (The), Watford – Mini festival of local bands featuring acoustic sets, vinyl DJs, and a drum workshop with Will Taylor, spread across five local venues. Featuring The Social Club, Lakes, The Ilario Ferrari Electric Trio, Awake Mother, El Bingo!, Ghost Tapes, Legends of The Seven Golden Vampires, and Happy Neighbours.
Phonica, London – All-day event from 9am - 9pm, featuring a wide selection of RSD exclusives, a secret special guest line-up across the shop floor and basement, with beverages provided by JUBEL and sound by Zion Audio.
Resident Music, Brighton – Afternoon and evening event from 4pm – 7:30pm, featuring a meet & greet and signing with Paris Paloma, DJ sets from Public Service Broadcasting and Steve Mason, the Annual Charity Raffle, and a stripped-back set from Blood Wizard, with beers supplied by Permit Room.
Rough Trade East, London – Hosting a full day of live music and DJ sets beginning at 10:00 AM. The lineup includes DJ sets from Kate Goodrum and Borokov Borokov, followed by live performances from Ella Raphael, Ashaine White, Eaves Wilder, a surprise guest (TBA), Long Distance Runner, Cabin, Daytime TV, Alabama 3 and headliners DOTWAVNOTWAVE, with music continuing throughout the day in-store.
Soul Brother, London - Celebrating 35 years of Soul Brother Records, Georgie B (Groove Association) from the UK 80s Soul/Jazz-Funk band Second Image will be signing copies of his new album 'My Time to Shine' in the shop from 2pm - 4pm.
Sound Records, Stroud – Tropical Record Store Day celebration in collaboration with Bacana Funk, featuring all-day DJ sets.
Steamboat Records, Limerick – A full day of live music in-store, with DJs throughout and performances from Irish Wonders, God Knows and First Class Rebel, with more happening across the day.
Truck Oxford Afterparty, The Bullingdon, Oxford – Evening Record Store Day celebration featuring headliner Willie J Healey and commemorating 15 years of Truck Oxford.
Voxbox Music, Edinburgh – Celebrating RSD & the shop’s 15th birthday with a pop-up in St Vincent’s Chapel, plus live music from 11am - 5.30pm featuring: Étáin, Broken Chanter, Kathryn Joseph (SAY Award Winner 2015), Phillip Jon Taylor (PAWS), Grant McPhee (Caledonia Screaming / new book on Scottish punk), Kai Reesu (SAY Award Winner 2025), Meursault, Both Hands, and waverley.

To find out what’s happening near you this weekend, or to grab tickets, head to our official events listing page or contact your local independent record shop .

Record Store Day will take place globally on Saturday 18 ^th April.

ROBERT PLANT HONOURED AS RECORD STORE LEGEND AHEAD OF RECORD STORE DAY 2026

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:58:04 GMT

Record Store Day is proud to announce Robert Plant as the latest recipient of its Record Store Legend award.

This accolade recognises Robert Plant’s lasting impact on music around the world, and his ongoing dedication to supporting new artists and record shops, as well as the record store community’s deep admiration for his work.

Speaking at Spillers Records, Robert Plant said: “Record stores have always been a part of my life. For me, once you get to the physical record it’s because you really want to know and be a part of what the artist was considering. And I know, as a guy who’s been making records since 1966, people want to take home something very special, to enjoy all the elements of what an artist has put together. We want a connection between the music and the art of the whole thing.”

Plant has long been a familiar face in record shops across the UK and beyond, from regular visits to The Groove Records in Stourbridge and 1960s “Chart” shops to check if his first record, ‘You’d Better Run’, was on sale, to a 2020 Q&A with Matt Everitt at Rough Trade East, and now at Spillers Records in Cardiff.

His connection to record stores stretches back decades, to his childhood in England and into his years on the road as a musician. Plant was famously photographed crate-digging at Bleecker Bob’s in New York with Jimmy Page in 1970. With countless other visits over the years, record shops remain central to Plant’s musical life, cementing his status as a true Record Store Legend.

A special plaque has been unveiled at the world’s oldest record shop, Spillers Records in Cardiff, Wales, recognising Plant’s Legend status, his connection to the shop, its history, and a country that has inspired his songwriting. The installation also highlights his ongoing support for record stores as cultural hubs which champion music and community, inviting fans to visit and share in their own love of music.

Ashli Todd, Spillers Records said: “ The universe already recognises Robert Plant as a legend, as proven by the legacy of his decades of recording and performing. But record shops of the world will know first-hand that above all, Robert Plant is a connoisseur of his craft whose appetite for musical discoveries has not waned with the passage of time. We could wax lyrical all day about what a passionate record shop supporter Robert Plant is, so suffice to say, it is our honour to be the chosen custodians of his Record Store Legend plaque.”

The accolade is a joint honour from Record Store Day UK and US, with its first recipient, Elton John, named a Record Store Legend in 2017 to mark Record Store Day’s 10th birthday, and Johnny Marr receiving the award in 2025.

The 19th annual celebration of Record Store Day takes place on 18 ^th April 2026, when thousands of independent record shops worldwide participate with parties, in-store performances and limited-edition releases from hundreds of artists.

Robert Plant celebrates Record Store Day 2026 with an exclusive release, Saving Grace: All That Glitters . The record, out on Nonesuch, follows his recent critically acclaimed album, Saving Grace; both feature singer Suzi Dian and the Saving Grace band of musicians from the English countryside that Plant calls home. The EP's four tracks, explore the folk and Americana songs that Plant and the band love: the traditional tunes 'The Blackest Crow' and 'Two Coats', arranged by Robert Plant and Saving Grace, as well as Gillian Welch's 'Orphan Girl' and Bert Jansch's 'Poison'.

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: HOLLY HUMBERSTONE - CRUEL WORLD

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:09:01 GMT

Holly Humberstone returns with Cruel World, out April 10th on indie exclusive pearl white vinyl, and selected as Record Store Day’s Album of the Month. It follows on from her 2023 debut with the same honest, close-up songwriting, but this time things feel a little more settled, and a little more sure of themselves. As Holly puts it, “My eleven-year-old self would be buzzing. I think she’d say, ‘You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.’”

The album sits in that mid-20s in-between, moving on from people, places and past versions of yourself without everything fully making sense yet. Holly describes it as “shedding old skin,” and that sense of moving on runs through the record. It leans into that in-between stage without overthinking it. As she puts it, “In a world that feels hyperreal and harsh, we wanted to create something fun, detached, nostalgic and magical.”

After the past couple of years out on the road, supporting Taylor Swift at Wembley and joining Sam Fender at St. James’ Park, Cruel World feels like the point where it all clicks into place. Written with her band in mind and built for live shows, it’s the sound of an artist settling in, and starting to get her flowers.

Holly will also be part of Record Store Day with a limited-edition 7” of Beauty Pageant , featuring the exclusive B-side Annihilation . With the indie exclusive pearl white vinyl landing April 10th and the 7” following a week later on April 18th, it’s a good time to head down to your local indie record sho p - not that you needed a reason to.

JUBEL X RECORD STORE DAY: THE WARM UP

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:45:02 GMT

FOUR DAYS OF BEERS AND BEATS ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Buckle up! Official Record Store Day partners Jubel are teaming up with four independent record stores to bring you certified good vibes and the official RSD26 warm up parties ahead of Saturday 18th April.

Expect a stacked lineup of DJs, ice-cold beers on the house, and all-round good vibes — whether you’re crate-digging or just here for the atmosphere, this is your midweek excuse to unwind with JUBEL.

WARM UP PARTY DATES:

7th April – Thorne Records, Edinburgh | 17:00–20:00 | RSVP here
8th April – Jacaranda Records, Liverpool | 18:00–22:00 | RSVP here
9th April – Bella Union , Brighton | 18:00–20:00 | RSVP here
10th April – Rough Trade Bristol | 17:00–20:00 | RSVP here

Record Store Day UK is thrilled to welcome Official Beer Partner JUBEL to the 2026 celebrations. True to its name - meaning “a feeling of extreme joy” - JUBEL exists to bring this experience to everyone. With a shared love for music, the partnership is a natural fit for the indie record shop community.

Emily Kelly, Field Marketing Manager, Music & Culture at JUBEL:

“Music has always been at the heart of JUBEL, it's at the core of everything we do as a brand. We’re passionate about supporting the grassroots music community, so we’re buzzing to be a part of Record Store Day and to celebrate the cultural communities record stores create across the country.”

From Edinburgh to Brighton, independent record shops are at the heart of music culture. Find your local store here and join the Record Store Day celebrations!

Record Collector Celebrates Record Store Day with Special Issue

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:42:46 GMT

Record Store Day x Record Collector – April 2026 Issue

As Record Store Day approaches its 19th year, we’re delighted to be featured in a special bumper issue of Record Collector celebrating all things vinyl, record shops, and the culture that brings them to life.

Since 1979, Record Collector has been the world’s leading magazine for rare records, discographies, reviews, and in-depth artist features. For this April 2026 edition, they’ve created an extensive cover feature dedicated to Record Store Day, exploring its history alongside the records, shops, artists, and collectables that have helped shape it over the years.

The feature looks back at the origins of Record Store Day, how it has grown since 2007, and the important role it continues to play in the resurgence of vinyl and the celebration of independent record stores. It also highlights a selection of memorable and distinctive Record Store Day releases from across the years.

This issue also includes a wide-ranging conversation with Robert Plant, who reflects on his lifelong love of record collecting, his early influences, and his latest Saving Grace EP, released exclusively for Record Store Day.

The Record Collector April 2026 issue (#582) is available in shops from 19 March.

If you spot it in your local indie record shop, be sure to pick up a copy next time you’re browsing!

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: DERMOT KENNEDY - THE WEIGHT OF THE WOODS

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:12:20 GMT

For March, Record Store Day is putting Dermot Kennedy’s The Weight of the Woods in the spotlight as our Album of the Month - a record that feels ripe for some Spring crate-digging in your local indie record shop.

The follow-up to Sonder was mostly written and recorded near his rural Irish home with longtime collaborator Gabe Simon (think Noah Kahan and Lana Del Rey energy), with a few sessions in Nashville for a dash of southern magic.

Across 14 tracks, Kennedy mixes folk roots, a hint of country, and the soaring melodies that his fans know and love. He calls it “a beautiful homegrown thing with Irish instruments and an Irish story” - and you can hear the quiet influence of the forest behind his house shaping the overall sound.

Pre-order the indie-exclusive Transparent Green 2LP with double gatefold jacket, printed inner sleeves featuring lyrics, and bonus tracks Black Water, Happiness, and Deserve - the perfect Spring pick-up from your favourite indie record shop.

Tracklist:

The Weight of the Woods (Reprise)
Honest
Refuge
Funeral
Sycamore
Endless
Turnstile
Wasted
Blue Eyes
Trepidation
The Only Time I Prayed
Often, Lately
Happiness (Bonus Track)
The Weight of the Woods
Black Water (Bonus Track)
Deserve (Bonus Track)

OLIVIA DEAN ANNOUNCED AS AMBASSADOR OF RECORD STORE DAY UK

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:58:49 GMT

Record Store Day UK is proud to announce Olivia Dean as the Official UK Ambassador for 2026. Olivia has been awarded the role as a champion for the culture of independent record shops and the vital role they play within their local communities.

Joining the ranks of iconic past ambassadors including Sam Fender, Kate Bush, Taylor Swift, the 1975, Noel Gallagher and Elton John, Olivia is ready to bring her love of vinyl and record shop culture to the 2026 event.

Speaking of her ambassador role, Olivia said:

“It’s such an honour to be the Record Store Day Ambassador for 2026. Independent record stores are such special spaces to discover and share music - to actually touch it and feel it. I’ve found so much inspiration in the records I’ve collected over the years and am so grateful for all the hidden gems I’ve found. I want to thank the record stores around the world for all the support you’ve given me over the years. It’s so important we continue to support them and keep them alive!”

As part of the RSD celebrations, the Grammy Award-winning superstar will release ‘Live at the BBC’, featuring live renditions of tracks by Carole King and boygenius. Recorded for the BBC, the release will be available as a limited edition black 7’’ vinyl, exclusively from participating independent record stores on Saturday 18th April.

According to Official Charts data, Olivia was the sixth biggest vinyl album artist of 2025, with The Art of Loving selling 45,000 copies on the format. In 2026, the album has gone even further: The Art of Loving is currently the UK’s biggest-selling vinyl album of the year, with over 11,000 copies sold since January 1.

Around 300 UK independent record shops are set to take part in this year’s Record Store Day - the highest number in the event’s 19-year history. Widely credited as a key driver of the vinyl revival, Record Store Day has played a crucial role in the resurgence of independent record retail. Its continued success reflects the resilience, creativity and passion of record shop owners, who remain a vibrant and essential presence on UK high streets.

Jane Unwin from Banquet Records said:

“Olivia Dean being this year's ambassador is a quality endorsement of RSD and of record shops themselves. Supportive of indie shops for years, Olivia's a legit modern pop star - not only a massive live draw, but consistently selling loads of physical music week in, week out. There's a very clear understanding of what makes physical music special, whether it's The Art of Loving on coloured vinyl, the RSD Black Friday split with Sam Fender, or this year's RSD 7” cover versions.”

On Thursday 26 February, Olivia Dean will perform as part of BRITs Week for War Child at Manchester’s iconic Albert Hall, in support of Record Store Day’s official charity partner. Proceeds will go towards War Child's work supporting children affected by conflict, providing protection, specialist mental health support, education, and advocacy to some of the world's most vulnerable.

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: MUMFORD & SONS - PRIZEFIGHTER

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:05:47 GMT

2026 rolls on with the next chapter from Mumford & Sons - their sixth studio album, Prizefighter.

Just seven months after their number one album Rushmere, the band teamed up again with Aaron Dessner of The National to co-write and co-produce a collection written in just ten days. The 14 tracks capture highs, lows, and everything in between - the perfect record to spin as we say goodbye to January.

Marcus Mumford’s lyrics explore resilience and pushing forward. The songs came to life during long days writing in Hudson cafés and late nights around Long Pond’s kitchen table, full of first takes and the joy of making music together again.

“We’re putting everything we have into this now, and we’re using everything about our experience so far to embrace exactly who we are. Prizefighter is serious and playful, sometimes bruised and always hopeful.” - Marcus Mumford

Prizefighter features collaborations with Hozier, Gracie Abrams, Gigi Perez and Chris Stapleton, reflecting the band’s ongoing focus on community.

Pick up your copy from your local indie record shop when it drops on 20th February. For collectors, the Indies Exclusive edition is a 140g ‘Icarus’ Amber Vinyl, housed in a gatefold jacket with lyric sheet and printed inner sleeve. Spin it, enjoy it, and support the indie record shops that make our culture thrive!

Tracklist:
1. Here (with Chris Stapleton)
2. Rubber Band Man (with Hozier)
3. The Banjo Song
4. Run Together
5. Conversation With My Son
6. Alleycat
7. Prizefighter
8. Begin Again
9. Icarus (with Gigi Perez)
10. Stay
11. Badlands (with Gracie Abrams)
12. Shadow Of A Man
13. I’ll Tell You Everything
14. Clover

THE RECORD STORE DAY 2026 LIST HAS LANDED!

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 17:59:04 GMT

Hundreds of exclusive records to hit the UK & Ireland’s independent record shops on Saturday 18 ^th April
Limited edition releases from: Elton John, Madonna, Blur, Olivia Dean,
Charli XCX, Primal Scream, Wolf Alice, CMAT + more

Record Store Day UK is proud to announce this year’s list of exclusives and special releases coming to independent record shops on Saturday 18 ^th April 2026.

Music fans can expect a stacked list of collectible and limited-edition records from some of the biggest and most exciting names in music including the likes of Elton John, Madonna, Blur, Charli XCX, Primal Scream, Joy Crookes, Paramore, Look Outside Your Window, plus many more surprises.

Hundreds of artists have come together to celebrate the UK’s independent record shops, which are at the heart of local communities nationwide. Now in its 19 ^th 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. There are now over 300 participating record shops across the UK and Ireland!

With special releases spanning rock, pop, soul, jazz, hip-hop, reggae, classical, and folk – even a Sleepy Pokémon Beats soundtrack - music fans of all tastes and genres will find something unique at their local record store this April.

Brit Award nominated artists such as: Bruno Mars, Calvin Harris, Chrystal, CMAT, Gigi Perez, HAIM, Myles Smith, Olivia Dean, PinkPantheress, Raye, Rose Gray, Self Esteem, Sleep Token, The Last Dinner Party and Wolf Alice, all have exclusive releases on this year’s RSD list!

The Continued Vinyl Revival

This year’s Record Store Day arrives as vinyl sales remain at their highest level in 20 years. According to the latest report from the Digital Entertainment and Retail Association, the market for vinyl records grew by 18.6%, in value terms with over 7.5 million discs sold last year, generating £238 million. These exciting numbers highlight the ongoing love for physical music, and the vital role independent record stores play in bringing artists, labels, and collectors together.

Record Store Day UK are also pleased to welcome Official Beer Partner, JUBEL to the 2026 celebrations. JUBEL means “a feeling of extreme joy” and they exist to bring this experience to everyone. With a mutual adoration for music, the partnership is a natural fit for the independent record shop community.

Emily Kelly, Field Marketing Manager, Music & Culture at JUBEL :
“Music has always been at the heart of JUBEL, it's at the core of everything we do as a brand. We’re passionate about supporting the grassroots music community, so we’re buzzing to be a part of Record Store Day and to celebrate the cultural communities record stores create across the country.”

Just a friendly reminder that all items on this year’s RSD release list will be available on a first-come, first-served basis only from participating shops on Saturday 18 ^th April. With so many stores taking part, be sure to check out where your nearest one is so you don’t miss out! Click here to find your nearest participating record shop.

Keep your eyes on our website and socials for the latest updates and events happening in record shops near you.

Record Store Day UK: Exclusive Vinyl Releases in Support of War Child

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:02:36 GMT

15 RSD RELEASES INCLUDING DIVORCE, PRIMAL SCREAM AND THE STREETS WILL DONATE £1 FROM EVERY UNIT SOLD TO RAISE MONEY FOR CHILDREN AFFECTED BY CONFLICT

Record Store Day UK are proud to once again be supporting official charity partner, War Child, with fifteen exclusive limited-edition releases from artists such as The Cure, The Vaccines, Fleetwood Mac and more.

For every copy of these records sold, £1 will be donated to War Child to support their efforts to help children affected by conflict, providing protection, specialist mental health support, education, and standing up for the rights of children whose lives have been devastatingly affected by war.

On Record Store Day, Saturday 18 April 2026, music fans will be able to purchase these exclusive vinyl releases only from participating independent record shops .

Rich Clarke, Head of Music at War Child UK said: “We couldn’t be happier to continue our partnership with Record Store Day UK. Music is a fundamental part of War Child’s DNA and we’re proud to be part of this celebration of independent record shops and the communities who support them. Right now, 1 in 5 children are affected by war. That’s more than 520 million children globally in the likes of Sudan, Gaza, Ukraine and more, so the support of RSD, retailers and record buyers couldn’t be more needed to help us continue to do our vital work around the world.”

2026 War Child Exclusive Vinyl Releases:

Corinne Bailey Rae – Live in New York
Available on vinyl for the first-time, Live-In New York captures Corinne Bailey Rae’s full self-titled debut album performed live at New York City’s Webster Hall in 2006. The set includes live versions of “Like a Star” and “Put Your Records On”, both Grammy-nominated singles.

The Cure – Acoustic Hits
The collection, newly remastered by Robert Smith, features acoustic reimaginations of all 18 songs on 'Greatest Hits', including ‘Boys Don’t Cry’, ‘A Forest’, ‘Just Like Heaven’ and ‘Friday I’m In Love’. Available on 2LP silver bio vinyl for the first time.

The Cure – Greatest Hits
Originally released in 2001, The Cure’s ‘Greatest Hits’ fast became one of their biggest selling albums, featuring 4 UK Top 10 hit singles and 4 UK Top 20 singles. Curated and remastered by Robert Smith for this 25th Anniversary Record Store Day 2026 exclusive, The Cure approach their 50th year in 2028 and remain one of the most beloved bands in the world. Available on 2LP silver bio vinyl for the first time.

Divorce - Live at Get Together
A special 2 track release from Divorce's set at Get Together, Sheffield, 17/05/2025. Including a live version of Heaven is a Long Way featuring Neighbourhood Voices - a local all-female identifying choir. The packaging will feature photography from the day, 2 live recordings and etching on the reverse of the record.

Dr. Feelgood - Oily City Confidential OST
Soundtrack to the Julien Temple film celebrating the legendary Dr Feelgood, examining their Canvey Island culture as a 'Thames delta' for British rhythm and blues. Originally released in 2010, this is the first time the album has been on vinyl.

Fleetwood Mac – The Original Fleetwood Mac
Remastered and expanded gatefold x2 Clear LP pressing, featuring seven bonus tracks never on vinyl before.

James Dean Bradfield – The Great Western
The Great Western was James Dean Bradfield's first solo offering, originally released in 2006. Long deleted and much sought after, this vinyl edition is the first time the album has been available on colour vinyl, a fitting way to mark its 20th anniversary.

Kaiser Chiefs - The Future is Medieval - Alphabetised Compendium
The 'world's first bespoke album', 'The Future Is Medieval' appeared on Kaiser Chiefs' website with no warning on 3rd June 2011. The album took the form of 20 digital files, 10 of which could be handpicked by the user along with customizable artwork, to create their own unique version of the album.

Mark Knopfler & Emmylou Harris – All The Roadrunning
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of All the Roadrunning, the collaboration album between Dire Straits’ Mark Knopfler and acclaimed US singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris, is reissued on coloured vinyl, marking a first-time release on vinyl for the album outside of the US.

Nicky Wire – Intimism
Nicky Wire's second solo album was originally released as a digital only album in 2023. This colour vinyl edition is the first time it has been released as a physical product.

Primal Scream – Echo Dek
Echo Dek is a re-imagining of tracks from Primal Scream's Vanishing Point album, produced by legendary dub producer Adrian Sherwood. These sprawling, abstract dub reimagining’s capture the band's fearless experimentalism during their most adventurous and innovative period. Long unavailable on vinyl.

Rory Gallagher – Calling Card
A limited-edition half speed master of Rory Gallagher's 'Calling Card' album, which celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. Originally released in 1976, Rory's sixth studio album is one of his most celebrated and diverse albums. It has been remastered by Frank Arkwright and the half speed master cut by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios.

Sigrid x Bring Me The Horizon – Bad Life
‘Bad Life’ was the single collaboration between Sigrid and Bring Me The Horizon, released in 2022. Being the fourth and final single from Sigrid’s second studio album ‘How To Let Go’, this is the first time the standalone track will be available on vinyl. The special release will be a limited edition, blue-coloured 7”.

The Streets – Computers and Blues
Computers and Blues is the fifth studio album by pioneering British rap artist, The Streets. The album, which includes the single 'Going Through Hell' and features guest performances by Robert Harvey (The Music), Laura Vane and Clare Maguire, is available on vinyl for the first time ever this Record Store Day. Pressed on Yellow vinyl.

The Vaccines - What Did You Expect.... Demos and B-sides
Brand new 17-track collection, 11 tracks never before on vinyl - telling the wider story around their highly successful debut album.

Record Store Day Germany and the Netherlands will also be taking part with War Child titles, but releases vary from country to country. Music fans in these territories can find their participating stores for Germany here , and the Netherlands here .

Record Store Day continues to highlight the passion, culture, and community of independent record shops. This year’s exclusive releases reflect the shared appreciation for vinyl that connects music fans everywhere. In partnership with War Child, Record Store Day 2026 supports a meaningful cause with every purchase and event.

Record Store Day Unveils Three Exclusive Live-to-Vinyl Releases

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:44:26 GMT

Kokoroko, The Snuts, and Nilüfer Yanya record live-to-lathe sessions for Record Store Day 2026

Record Store Day UK, in partnership with Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey and Metropolis Studios, is delighted to announce three exclusive live-to-vinyl releases, available only through independent record shops as part of the Record Store Day celebrations on Saturday 18 April 2026.

Kokoroko, The Snuts, and Nilüfer Yanya each recorded a special session at Metropolis Studios, captured in a single uninterrupted take and cut directly to lacquer in real time, with no edits or retakes. The result is three unrepeatable recordings, each pressed to vinyl and housed in bespoke artwork inspired by the artists’ live performances.

Kokoroko – Live from Metropolis Studios

Following the success of their 2025 album Tuff Times Never Last and a headline show at O2 Academy Brixton, Kokoroko return with a raw, one-take session at Metropolis Studios.

The London-based afrobeat jazz septet delivers their signature grooves and wide-ranging influences—from 80s Brit-funk and R&B to West African disco—captured live straight to vinyl in their Jack Daniel’s Revive Live session.

This four-track EP features ‘Higher’ from Get The Message, highlights from their second album, and a never-before-released cover of ‘Express Your Love’, offering a raw, one-take glimpse into the band’s evolving artistry.

Kokoroko:
“Cutting live-to-vinyl is kind of like stamping time, you’re capturing this moment that’s not going to happen the same way again. We love vinyl, so it just felt right; doing it in the spirit of some of our favourite records. We’d never played some of these songs like this before, it felt like the perfect way to capture them. We also covered Sweet and Innocent’s ‘Express Your Love’ (such a gorgeous track) and it’s the first time recording Noushy on lead vocals with us. She sounds amazing, and we really wanted to give her that shine.”

The Snuts – Live at The Boiler Shop

West Lothian’s The Snuts quickly became underdog heroes in 2021, after famously taking on global pop star Demi Lovato in a chart battle and landing their debut album ‘W.L.’ a UK number 1 - blazing a trail for a new wave of 2020’s guitar bands.

Touring relentlessly and renowned for their captivating, all-inclusive live shows, the band have cemented their status as one of the UK’s most exciting acts, achieving three Top 3 albums in just three years; a feat matched only by One Direction amongst British bands.

For Record Store Day 2026, the band took to Newcastle’s Boiler Shop for an exclusive, stripped back ‘evening with’ event to an audience of 900 adoring fans, as part of Jack Daniel’s Revive Live: Live to Vinyl Session.

Joe Brice, Recording and Mix Engineer at Metropolis Studios:
“We transported our very fragile 24-track tape machine on location and set our recording rig upside-of-stage capturing the energy of the live performance direct to tape. Back at Metropolis, the 24-track tapes were mixed down to half inch two-track tape, mastered and cut to lacquer by Matt Colton keeping this unique performance 100% analogue from the stage, all the way to the vinyl on your record player.”

Nilüfer Yanya – Live at Metropolis Studios

Following the acclaim of her 2024 album My Method Actor, Nilüfer Yanya returns with an intimate, one-take Live-to-Vinyl session at Metropolis Studios.

The performance captures a raw snapshot of Yanya’s artistry, reworking standout moments from My Method Actor alongside fan favourites. The 12" includes “Method Actor,” “Call It Love,” “Binding,” and “The Dealer.”

My Method Actor earned praise from The Guardian, Pitchfork, The New York Times, Crack Magazine, and The Face. The Live-to-Vinyl release follows major touring, including a North American run with Alex G, UK dates supporting Lorde, and festival appearances at Glastonbury, Primavera, All Points East, Green Man, and Way Out West.

Nilüfer Yanya:
“My band & I cherry picked 4 songs from the live show that we have been touring since the release of ‘My Method Actor’ that take on a life of their own on stage. Having the opportunity to record these at Metropolis archives the live show at a moment in time and hopefully makes for an enjoyable listening experience."

Jack Daniel’s REVIVE LIVE is partnering with leading music industry organisations including Music Venue Trust, Metropolis Studios and Record Store Day to reignite the UK’s music scene and support the venues, artists, and fans who keep it alive.

Laura Hall, Brand Manager of Jack Daniel’s UK :
“Jack Daniel’s has always been deeply connected to music and REVIVE LIVE is our way of keeping it alive where it matters most, whether it is on stage, in the studio or behind the counter of a record shop. Live music has the power to create defining memories and reflects the independent spirit at the heart of both music and our whiskey.”

HELP(2) – A New Collaborative Album Supporting War Child

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:04:38 GMT

HELP(2), a brand-new collaborative album inspired by the landmark 1995 release HELP, will be released on Friday 6th March via Record Store Day's official charity partner, War Child Records. The album is available to buy at independent record shops across the UK, giving fans the chance to support their local stores while contributing to War Child’s vital work delivering immediate aid, education, specialist mental health support, and protection to children affected by conflict.

Like the original, HELP(2) responds to the urgency of today’s humanitarian crises. Recorded predominantly across a single extraordinary week at Abbey Road Studios in November 2025, the project was brought to life under the guidance of acclaimed producer James Ford.

HELP(2) features a stellar lineup of contributors, including Anna Calvi, Arctic Monkeys, Arlo Parks, Arooj Aftab, Bat For Lashes, Beabadoobee, Beck, Beth Gibbons, Big Thief, Black Country, New Road, Cameron Winter, Damon Albarn, Depeche Mode, Dove Ellis, Ellie Rowsell, English Teacher, Ezra Collective, Foals, Fontaines D.C., Graham Coxon, Greentea Peng, Grian Chatten, Kae Tempest, King Krule, Nilüfer Yanya, Olivia Rodrigo, Pulp, Sampha, The Last Dinner Party, Wet Leg, and Young Fathers.

The collaborative recording process mirrors the spirit of the original album, with impromptu moments and one-take sessions throughout. Damon Albarn recorded Flags alongside Johnny Marr and Kae Tempest and Grian Chatten, while Olivia Rodrigo worked with Graham Coxon on The Book of Love.

Renowned filmmaker Jonathan Glazer acted as Creative Director, working with Academy Films and his team to allow children to film inside the studios, as well as gathering footage from Ukraine, Gaza, Yemen, and Sudan. This approach connects the album to the children the music aims to support, reflecting the project’s guiding concept: “By Children, For Children.”

The original HELP album, led by Brian Eno, was recorded in a single day in 1995 and raised over £1.2 million, providing essential support to children affected by the Bosnian conflict. Today, nearly one in five children globally – over 520 million – are affected by conflict, making War Child’s work more urgent than ever.

Pick up HELP(2) at your local indie record shop — support your store and contribute to this vital cause.

Tracklist – HELP(2):

Arctic Monkeys - Opening Night
Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten & Kae Tempest - Flags
Black Country, New Road - Strangers
The Last Dinner Party - Let’s Do It Again!
Beth Gibbons - Sunday Morning
Arooj Aftab & Beck - Lilac Wine
King Krule - The 343 Loop
Depeche Mode - Universal Soldier
Ezra Collective & Greentea Peng - Helicopters
Arlo Parks - Nothing I Could Hide
English Teacher & Graham Coxon - Parasite
Beabadoobee - Say Yes
Big Thief - Relive, Redie
Fontaines D.C. - Black Boys on Mopeds
Cameron Winter - Warning
Young Fathers - Don’t Fight the Young
Pulp - Begging for Change
Sampha - Naboo
Wet Leg - Obvious
Foals - When the War is Finally Done
Bat For Lashes - Carried My Girl
Anna Calvi, Ellie Rowsell, Nilüfer Yanya & Dove Ellis - Sunday Light
Olivia Rodrigo - The Book of Love

Behind the Counter Returns to UK Record Shops for a Seventh Season

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 10:06:32 GMT

Behind the Counter returns for a seventh season with a brand-new 12-part video series, presented by Record Store Day and Classic Album Sundays in collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins, spotlighting inspirational independent record shops and the communities that sustain them across the UK.

Following a previous season that reached over 5.6 million viewers, Behind the Counter enters its latest series as one of the largest-reaching and longest-running projects dedicated to UK record shop culture.

Each episode offers an intimate look inside a different independent store, exploring how shop owners, staff, and customers continue to shape local music scenes and keep physical formats thriving.

This year’s journey spans the length and breadth of the UK, featuring twelve distinctive record shops, each with its own identity and loyal following.

· A Slice of Vinyl, Gosport

· Applestump Records, Cheshire

· Black City Records, Bristol

· Carnival Records, Great Malvern

· Farland Records, Penzance

· Monorail Music, Glasgow

· Roan Records, London

· Saturnalia, Faversham

· Underground Solution, Edinburgh

· Vinyl Fetishes, Manchester

· Vinyl Guru, Newcastle

· Wrecking Ball, Hull

From championing underground genres to acting as social spaces and cultural anchors, the series reveals a shared belief in the enduring power of records and the people who sell, collect and cherish them.

New episodes will premiere every Tuesday at 10 AM GMT on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), and YouTube, in the lead up to Record Store Day which takes place on Saturday 18 ^th April.

Glen Hudson, Co-owner of Vinyl Fetishes:

“Since opening Vinyl Fetishes, we’ve created more than a record shop. We’ve built a welcoming and inclusive space where people feel safe, represented, and connected through music, and we’re proud of the positive impact this has had on our community in such a short space of time.”

The return of Behind the Counter comes as vinyl continues its remarkable resurgence. In 2025, physical music sales grew 11.5% to £368.1m, driven by a huge 18.5% increase in vinyl revenues.

Physical formats now make up 15% of music revenues, their highest share since 2021, highlighting the central role independent record shops play in the wider music economy.

Colleen Murphy, founder of Classic Album Sundays:
“Having worked in four record stores myself, I truly understand the value of independent record shops as a place for musical discovery and connection. There’s truly no greater way to explore new music than at a record store with knowledgeable staff and that’s the fundamental reason why our Behind the Counter series celebrates these passionate people and institutions. Long live the record shop!”

The series continues its long-standing collaboration with British audio brand Bowers & Wilkins, highlighting how high-quality sound enhances the ritual and experience of listening to vinyl records.

Record Stores' Ones To Watch 2026

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 13:39:31 GMT

Record shops know what’s coming next. So we asked them.

UK independent record stores were invited to nominate the local artists they believe are ones to watch for 2026. No hype. No algorithms. Just genuine recommendations from the people closest to the music.

Together with Jack Daniel's and Metropolis Studios, we’ve collated and curated five standout artists tipped by record shops across the UK; a snapshot of what’s next, according to those who live and breathe vinyl every day.

#5 RIP MAGIC

Record store nomination: Flashback Records

RIP Magic operate as a multidisciplinary unit of DJs, sound designers, visual artists and photographers, creating a tightly unified output that feels fresh, contemporary and experimentally minded. Their “blend of electronica, European cold-wave and a post-rock instinct for building slow, mesmerising tension has made them one of the most talked-about acts in the UK underground.”

#4 ICHABOD WOLF

Record store nomination: Tallbird Records

Kieran Smith aka Ichabod Wolf is a local legend on the Chesterfield music scene, who “plays a mean acoustic guitar, sings about death and heartbreak and other bleak subjects with laugh-out-loud wit and poetry."

#3 SCARLETT FAE

Record store nomination: Capsule Records

Scarlett Fae is a Brighton-based artist blending ethereal soul, spoken word, and intimate storytelling. Her music is soft yet searching, exploring identity, grief, pleasure, and connection. Founder of SUNFAE and creator of the short film Black Molasses, she is “an independent artist who knows no boundaries to her creativity…” As her current era, Of Sex and Nature, draws to a close, Scarlett is now completing her debut album - shaped by years of community-led practice, live performance and deep ties to the city she calls home.

#2 KAI REESU

Record store nomination: Second Line Records

2025 Scottish Album of The Year award winners, Kai Reesu are a freshly formed nu-jazz band from Glasgow, “blending elements of hip-hop, neo-soul, psychedelic rock & old skool fusion.” At its core is the trio interplay of Paul Copeland on keys, Robert McArthur on bass, & Matt Jim Sim on drums. At its most expanded Kai boasts a heavyweight horn section (Michael Butcher, Adam Jackson & Harry Weir) and abstract percussive colours from Alex Palmer on aux drums. A MUST to check out...

#1 VOKA GENTLE

Record store nomination: Sound Records

Consisting of Imogen Mason, Ellie Mason and William J. Stokes, Voka Gentle are a trio of songwriters, producers and multi-instrumentalists tearing up the rulebook with their unique blend of earthy psychedelia, motorik beats, collaged soundscapes and harmonised vocals who “perfectly hold the ground between melody and mayhem”.

Notable Mentions:

ZO LIEF ANNOUNCED AS RECORD STORE DAY UNSIGNED WINNER

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:31:05 GMT

Record Store Day and Breed Media are delighted to announce Zo Lief as the winner of RSD Unsigned 2025, the nationwide competition celebrating the UK’s most exciting unsigned talent.

Selected from hundreds of entries across the country, Zo Lief impressed the judging panel with their hypnotic and heavenly psychedelic dream-pop sound. Zo Lief is a Dutch/British duo, Laura Chen (vocals, guitar) and James Attwood (multi-instrumentalist), whose cinematic songs blend chamber pop, garage rock, and ’90s shoegaze. The panel included Karen Emanuel (CEO and Founder, Key Production Group & Breed Media), Emma Perks (Spinning Around Records), Elsie Chadwick (Head of Customer Services, Stamper Discs) and singer-songwriter Girli.

As this year’s winners, Zo Lief will have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records, courtesy of Breed Media - a music manufacturing and vinyl pressing agency which specialises in supporting emerging artists, after an exclusive mastering session at Abbey Road Studios, courtesy of RSD UK partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Zo Lief will also receive a pair of Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 bookshelf speakers and a Marantz Stereo 70s amplifier to support their ongoing music creation journey.

Zo Lief said:
“Releasing our new EP 'Hypnosis' on vinyl is a real pinch me moment for the band - the cherry on top of 2025, which has been our busiest and most fun year yet. Having the EP available in physical form will give the songs a new lease of life, give us more opportunities to connect with and grow our fanbase/listenership, and ultimately, will keep the EP's momentum ongoing whilst we zealously work on our next release behind the scenes. As vinyl lovers and collectors, it's a dream come true to get our own music pressed on vinyl. We are beyond excited to soon be holding our music in our hands!”

Karen Emanuel, CEO, Key Production Group & Breed Media, said:
“This was such joy to listen to, and the band presented really professionally. They are deserving winners.”

Emma Perks, owner of Spinning Around Records, said:
“I was immediately drawn to the angelic vocals and indie-pop sound. I know their music will go down incredibly well with my customers in store, and I’m already keen to get one of those vinyl pressings spinning as soon as they’re ready.”

Elsie Chadwick, Head of Customer Services, Stamper Discs, said:
“I loved the dreamy pop combination of their guitar and vocals. I’m delighted they won, I could listen to this song again and again .”

Girli, Singer-songwriter, said:
“I love the fusion of influences in Zo Lief’s sound, the bright sounds and vocals are infectious, and the live show looks so captivating. It was such a privilege to be able to listen to so much incredible music while judging RSD Unsigned this year!”

Record Store Day Unsigned, the competition supporting emerging UK artists, has previously helped acts including 4 The Brotherhood, Currls, Amy Fitz Doyley, and Heavy Rapids, many of whom have gone on to secure radio play, tours, and festival slots.

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: MIKA - HYPERLOVE

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 15:25:14 GMT

2026 kicks off with a bright start for Mika. After a runo of hits with a catalogue amassing over 20 million worldwide album sales, BRIT Awards & a GRAMMY nomination, Mika is back with his 7th album - Hyperlove.

Built around the piano and recorded entirely with analogue and vintage gear, Hyperlove was produced alongside Nick Littlemore (Empire of the Sun) and features narration from John Waters. Packed with playful interludes and little surprises, the album moves effortlessly, drawing you in from start to finish.

Hyperlove is the kind of record that gives January a lift - perfect for a fresh start to the year.

Pick up your copy from your local indie record shop when Hyperlove drops on 23rd January. Spin it, enjoy it, and let’s start the year as we mean to go on - celebrating great music and supporting indie record shops!

SAVE THE DATE: RECORD STORE DAY: 18TH APRIL 2026

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 13:59:33 GMT

Record Store Day returns on Saturday 18 April 2026 for its 19th edition, celebrating independent record shops and the people who support them. More than 280 UK record shops, alongside thousands worldwide, will take part with exclusive physical releases and in-store events.

Over the coming months, RSD will announce its official UK ambassador and unveil hundreds of exclusive releases landing in participating shops. Since launching in 2007, Record Store Day has grown into one of the most anticipated dates in the music calendar, highlighting the continued importance of independent record retail.

Record Store Day 2026 is supported by a range of partners who share RSD’s passion for music, creativity, and independent record shops.

BBC Radio 6 Music
BBC Radio 6 Music has been a long-standing supporter of Record Store Day for more than a decade and will once again join as Official Media Partner for 2026, reflecting its ongoing commitment to championing artists, music discovery, and the UK’s record shop community.

Bowers & Wilkins
RSD is thrilled to welcome back longstanding partner Bowers & Wilkins, delivering high-performance audio to celebrate vinyl and support independent record stores.

Giles Pocock, VP of Brand Marketing, said:
“Independent record stores are the beating heart of the music community. Record Store Day celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship that makes music so special, and we’re proud to continue our support.”

Jack Daniel’s x Metropolis: REVIVE LIVE
RSD are delighted to welcome Jack Daniels & Metropolis to the 2026 celebrations. Their involvement centres on three outstanding live to vinyl projects which will be announced in the coming weeks.

Eduardo Toledo, Head of Jack Daniel’s UK, said:
“Music has always been central to Jack Daniel’s. REVIVE LIVE keeps that spirit alive - on stage, in the studio and in record shops. Live music creates unforgettable moments and embodies the independent ethos shared by both the UK music scene and our Tennessee whiskey.”

War Child
RSD are proud to be fundraising for War Child as the Official Charity Partner in 2026. Donations will support their work providing specialist support for children affected by conflict worldwide including mental health care, education, shelter, and emergency supplies. More details of the War Child fundraising efforts will be shared in the weeks ahead.

Rich Clarke, Head of Music, said:
“We’re delighted to be a long-term partner of Record Store Day celebrating independent record shops and the communities who support them. We’re honoured to the be the official charity partner and to use that platform to give vital support by children affected by conflict around the world.”

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: SAM FENDER - PEOPLE WATCHING DELUXE

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:48:23 GMT

2025 has been a huge year for Sam Fender: selling out London Stadium and three St James’ Park gigs in Newcastle, winning the Mercury Music Prize in his hometown, and releasing the fastest-selling British album of the year. On top of that, he was named Record Store Day 2025 ambassador, cementing his status as one of the UK’s most celebrated artists.

Now, People Watching returns in a deluxe 2LP edition with eight new tracks, including “Rein Me In” with Olivia Dean and the new single “Talk to You” featuring Elton John. These fresh tracks are the perfect excuse to revisit the album and soak up the stories and songs that made it a standout this year.

The new edition features more stunning imagery from the late Tish Murtha’s archive: a figure on a snow-covered bench, overlooking terraced housing and a factory. Iconic, poignant, and deeply tied to the Northern landscapes that inspire Sam’s music.

Stick it on your Christmas list, buy it for a friend, and head to your local indie record shop when People Watching Deluxe drops on 5th December. Flip through the sleeve, spin the new tracks, and relive the album all over again.

2025 has been Sam’s year - cheers to him, and to all the independent record shops that have made it one to remember!

Tracklist:

LP1

Side A

1. People Watching

2. Nostalgia’s Lie

3. Chin Up

4. Wild Long Lie

5. Arm’s Length

Side B

6. Crumbling Empire

7. Little Bit Closer

8. Rein Me In

9. TV Dinner

10. Something Heavy

11. Remember My Name

LP2

Side A

1. I’m Always on Stage

2. Talk To You (feat. Elton John)

3. Fortuna’s Wheel

4. Rein Me In (with Olivia Dean)

Side B

5. Me and The Dog

6. Tyrants

7. The Treadmill

8. Empty Spaces

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: FLORENCE + THE MACHINE - EVERYBODY SCREAM

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:22:08 GMT

Spooky season just got its soundtrack! Everybody Scream, the new album from Florence + The Machine, arrives this Halloween, ready to cast a spell over record shops nationwide. Known for Florence Welch’s iconic vocals and ethereal presence, the band return with album number six - a record that channels their art pop, indie rock, and baroque pop influences into something unmistakably theirs.

Over the past two years, Welch has written and produced Everybody Scream alongside Mark Bowen (IDLES), Aaron Dessner (The National), and Mitski. The album grew from a period of personal reflection, following lifesaving surgery during the Dance Fever tour in 2023. “The closest I came to making life was the closest I came to death. And I felt like I had stepped through this door, and it was just full of women, screaming,” Welch says. Themes of womanhood, ageing, partnership, and mortality run throughout, making it one of Florence + The Machine’s most personal albums yet.

Many Indies across the UK will celebrate the release on 31st October, with some hosting special listening events for fans to experience the album first. And that’s not all, a free Florence + The Machine tote bag will be available with purchase of the album (while stocks last), alongside a double-sided poster for attendees and a special Halloween prize for one lucky fan.

Everybody Scream is out on Specialist Retail Exclusive red vinyl - a must-have for fans and collectors. This Halloween, don’t walk, run to your local record shop, pick up a copy, and celebrate the return of Florence + The Machine, a band whose music always feels a little bit like magic.

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 09:30:37 GMT

Record Store Day are proud to celebrate UK Black History Month.

This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” draws focus to the profound contributions made by Black leaders, activists, pioneers and wider community - tribute to the resilience and strength of those who have shaped history and strive for a future of continued empowerment.

To celebrate, we asked indie record shops across the UK to tell us about their favourite records by black artists.

Soul Brother Records, London

Rough Trade, Nottingham

ROUGH TRADE, LONDON

Sister Ray, London

Vinylfetishes, Manchester

RECORD STORE DAY BLACK FRIDAY: EXCLUSIVE RELEASES ANNOUNCED

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:11:59 GMT

This year, Record Store Day’s sister event, Black Friday, returns on Friday 28 ^th November with a stacked lineup of special releases, exclusively for independent record shops.

Highlights include limited edition vinyl from Sam Fender & Olivia Dean, Fred again.., Icona Pop & Charli XCX, Bruno Mars, Maribou State, Billie Eilish, Young Fathers and over 100 artists across a variety of genres, ensuring something for every music fan. Releases will be available exclusively at UK independent record stores from 8am on 28 ^th November. Find participating stores here, with a full list of titles found here .

Record Store Day Black Friday continues to offer a unique alternative to the usual Black Friday frenzy, focusing on collectible editions and memorable releases that music lovers of all ages will treasure for years to come.

Lägom Studio

And it’s this unique and premium alternative to Black Friday that perfectly sets the stage for the introduction of Record Store Day UK’s official new partner, Lägom Studio.

Lägom Studio sets out to create bespoke furniture that truly celebrates the joy of record collecting. From their Lincolnshire workshop, Lägom Studio's team of 10 like-minded creatives—including artists, designers, DJs, and collectors—designs and builds beautiful solid wood storage and display pieces. Specializing in bespoke solutions for vinyl, mixed media, and hi-fi components, they offer a high degree of customization in size, finish, and layout.

Chris Mitchell, Director, said of the partnership: “We are passionate about vinyl, music and design, and set out to bring solid, lasting furniture back into a disposable world. Our pieces are made to be cherished for a lifetime, just like the records they hold. We are excited to partner with Record Store Day as it aligns perfectly with our own ethics and our ongoing support for independent shops and high street record stores at the heart of the music community.”

More information on the partnership will be revealed in the coming months, but in the meantime, you check out the full list of exclusive releases coming soon to your local independent record shop. For details on each title, visit the full list here!

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: THE LAST DINNER PARTY - FROM THE PYRE

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:54:39 GMT

From The Pyre is the second album from Brit Award winners, record shop favourites, and rising indie sensations, The Last Dinner Party. Coming off their Mercury Award–nominated Prelude to Ecstasy, the London-based five-piece are back, delivering theatrical indie rock that cements their place as one of the UK’s most exciting new bands. “It is our absolute delight to present our new album From The Pyre to the world,” the band say. “This record feels a little darker, more raw and more earthy; it takes place looking out at a sublime landscape rather than seated at an opulent table.”

Although only a year has passed since their debut, the band have been cultivating these songs since their earliest rehearsals in 2020. Lead single Nothing Matters has been a staple of every setlist since their very first gig at the George Tavern. Reflecting on these early songs, the band say: “We have held, nurtured and fed these first songs for a long time, and in return they have flown us to heights and guided us on journeys once totally incomprehensible.”

From The Pyre is a concept album, with character-driven stories bound by the allegorical world of ‘The Pyre’. Each track is imagined as part of a travelling medieval mystery play, with the band cast as its players. “This frame narrative felt like a way of visually representing our lives as a band, once again mythologising the everyday,” they explain.

This month, indie record shops are stocking From The Pyre on exclusive Inferno 140g vinyl. With neon colours that echo the album cover, a 12x12” lyric sheet, and a collectible sticker, it’s a must for fans.

So head to your local indie record shop and grab From The Pyre when it drops on 17th October - the Last Dinner Party’s second chapter of theatrical indie rock, perfect for vinyl lovers and anyone ready to dive into their mythic world!

RECORD STORE DAY UNSIGNED IS BACK

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 07:55:58 GMT

CALLING ALL UNSIGNED ARTISTS!

We are buzzing to announce the return of Record Store Day Unsigned in partnership with Breed Media - the competition offering one exceptional unsigned UK artist the chance to have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records!

Entry is simple; artists must upload their original music to YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram using the hashtag #RSDUnsigned, and then submit the link via the Breed Media submission page . Submissions are encouraged from artists across all genres and backgrounds.

The competition will be judged by a panel of industry experts, including:

Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production Group and Breed Media
Elsie Chadwick, Head of Customer Services at Stamper Discs
Emma Perks, owner of Spinning Around Records (Telford)
girli, Singer and songwriter

Poto courtesy of DUMA Magazine

In addition to having their music pressed on vinyl, this year’s winner will receive a pair of Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 bookshelf speakers and a Marantz Stereo 70s amplifier to help create an in-home studio setup, and the opportunity to attend a mastering session at Abbey Road Studios to have their music mastered, courtesy of RSD UK official partner, Bowers & Wilkins.

Record Store Day Unsigned has previously supported five winners – including 4 The Brotherhood, Currls, Amy Fitz Doyley, Sister Cookie, Heavy Rapids, and Barbudo – who have gone on to enjoy radio play, UK-wide tours, and festival appearances.

Submissions are now open and will close on 10th November 2025!

Album of the Month: Lola Young – I’m Only F**king Myself

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 08:53:57 GMT

This month indie record stores are filling the racks with South London’s Lola Young, as she becomes September’s Album of the Month. At just 23, this album is already set to be one of the biggest hits of the year for record shops, as Lola carves herself a reputation for on the UK’s most relatable voices.

Across 14 tracks, Lola Young dives headfirst into the chaos of heartbreak, rage and humour, blending everything she loves - from hip-hop and indie to art-pop and grunge -into a sound that feels unmistakably hers. Working with producers including Jared Solomon (Solomonophonic), Conor Dickinson, and even SZA, this is one you’ll want to pick up when it drops on 19 ^th September!

Viral tracks like Don’t Hate Me and Conceited already showed bite, but across the full record they take on new life, part of a bigger, unapologetically human story that’s messy, funny, and hugely relatable.

Pressed on 140g marbled vinyl with matte sleeve and 12x12 insert, the Punching Bag Indie Exclusive is a must for the collection. Head to your local indie record sho p and grab I’m Only F**king Myself - Lola Young’s statement second chapter.

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: SABRINA CARPENTER - MAN'S BEST FRIEND

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:14:54 GMT

Clear some space in the racks, Sabrina Carpenter is back with her brand-new album Man’s Best Friend, landing August 29th and already shaping up to be one of the year’s biggest pop events.

The lead single “Manchild”, written with Jack Antonoff and Amy Allen, has shot straight to #1 on both the Spotify US and Global charts, with a video racking up over 15 million views in its first week. It’s pure Sabrina: razor-sharp hooks, unapologetic attitude, and choruses made to be shouted in your bedroom or blasted in your car.

This new chapter follows Short n’ Sweet, the record that dominated 2024 with three billion-streaming singles (Espresso, Please Please Please, and Taste), six GRAMMY® nominations, and two wins, including Best Pop Vocal Album. She’s broken UK chart records, sold out arenas worldwide, and even found time to duet with Dolly Parton.

Pressed on Opaque Seafoam Indie Exclusive Vinyl and best enjoyed straight from your local indie’s new-release rack, pop’s most unstoppable force is in her prime and this is the sound of her running full tilt.

Man’s Best Friend is available to pre-order now. Don’t miss out, grab your copy from your favourite indie!

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: SISTERS (EXPANDED & REMASTERED)

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:41:10 GMT

Few captured the sounds of 80s Britain quite like the Bluebells. With their trademark jangly guitars and soaring harmonies, the Glaswegians found themselves unlikely pop heroes. Sisters, their 1984 debut album delivered a string of hits, including Young At Heart, which unexpectedly - and nothing to do with a certain Volkswagen commercial - hit number 1 in 1993 (nine years after its initial release).

This newly remastered edition of Sisters throws in b-sides, live sessions and rarities – pressed on limited edition double vinyl. So, revisit, or dive in for the first time, a snapshot of a band who made a quiet but lasting dent in British pop!

We caught up with Ken McCluskey and Bobby Bluebell for a few questions around the album:

What can fans expect from this album?

Ken: The newly remastered and expanded edition of our debut album "Sisters" is the first time that all our singles have been collated together alongside a treasure trove of recordings from our heady days at London Records. We had a most enjoyable time working in studios for the first time with producers such as Elvis Costello, Bob Andrews, Colin Fairley, and Alan Shacklock who helped show us the way. This collection of songs demonstrates our love of pop music, being a young person, having great fun with friends in a band and travelling the world balanced with the importance of mapping contemporary issues and injustices felt by a young urban folk in the time of Thatcher, deindustrialization, unemployment, and the futility of war.

Tell us what inspired the album artwork?

Ken: We liked the idea of a collage of some of our favourite things in a world or global setting hence the main globe shape. Bobby put it together with his friend and graphic designer Pete Barrett. Some of the images are family orientated, like a cherubic Bobby at the seaside with his lovely Mum front sleeve bottom left. Or my brother David and I's parents courting picture underneath the title "Sisters" on the front cover. No idea how Stalin got in there top right, we preferred Lennon at the time. For this new edition we wanted a very different accompanying colour for the setting of the graphic to differentiate from the original and we like the purple and think it looks great.

Robert: It’s not my mum actually, it’s her almost identical sister, my aunt Guiliana. The idea came mainly from a graphic I had first tried to use at college. I did a degree in design, and I was thinking of using it for my fanzine but never got round to it and then I realised it was the perfect graphic for an LP. Then as Ken said, we assembled images to place in each segment, some tongue in cheek. Pete Barrett added some more somewhat risqué images that we replaced for the subsequent re-releases. Pete did a great job on it and I think he really helped us capture a lot of our personalities on it. It’s undoubtedly iconic now.

Do you have a favourite indie record shop you’re looking forward to seeing it on the shelves of?

Ken: We love Monorail in Glasgow, run by Stephen Pastel and his super team, so that would be nice, and The Big Blue shop which is the home of our current record label Last Night from Glasgow.

And the best bit? Bobby and Ken took us through Sisters, track by track:

Everybody's Somebody's Fool

Bobby: The version of Everybody's Somebody's Fool on the album is the version we recorded with Robin Miller at Air Studios. It was one of the first recording sessions we did for the album. We had strings on it and we always felt it was a really kind of fresh version, probably not as good as the version we'd done earlier for Postcard Records, but better recorded for sure and better sound quality.

Young at Heart

Bobby: Young at Heart was a song that I'd written with Siobhan Fahey for Bananarama to do, and we were doing it at the same time live with The Bluebells. It's kind of a Northern Soul thing: we were going to a Northern Soul club in London, Siobhan’s cousin was a DJ there. The Bluebells’ version we played live for a long time and when Bananarama’s LP came out, we were a bit disappointed. I think they were a bit disappointed themselves, actually, with the kind of Jolley & Swain pop production on it and we decided we were going to try and do it a different way for our album. We were up in Inverness and we were pretty much in that kind of Dylan mode, you know, that “I Want You” feel and we were very interested in having a violin on it. So we just wanted to do it as completely differently as possible. We all thought it had a good chance of it being a hit single, so that's what we did.

I’m Falling

Bobby : I’m Falling is really kind of like three songs put together, two of mine and one of Ken's that kind of all fitted together. The verse was a thing that I'd been working on when I was trying to do this thing where I didn't repeat a single chord all the way through and I managed to achieve that.

Will She Always be Waiting

Bobby: Will she always be waiting used to be a song called Wishful Thinking that we did in The Bluebells pretty much from the start of our existence really. It developed over the years as songs do live and it developed quite naturally. And then we started working with Elvis Costello and he produced what I think is the definitive version of this song. He played organ on it. We did several other versions of it, some with strings, but all these versions were based on Elvis's original track that we recorded with him in Jam Studios up at Finsbury Park.

Some Sweet Day

Bobby: Some Sweet Day was another very early Bluebells song. We used to play this song quite fast. In fact, on the Kid Jensen radio sessions (available on the 3CD/DVD version), you're able to hear the original fast version. When we got to Elvis again, Elvis being the master producer that he was slowed it down and brought out the beauty of the song. In fact, he sings on it, he plays guitar on it as well. His harmonies on it are fantastic and the trumpet arrangement thing that he did in the middle section of the song, I really adore, it's one of my favourite recordings by The Bluebells.

Cath

Bobby: Cath was kind of a happy accident. Again, this was an early song that used to be called ‘honest to goodness’, when we first started to do The Bluebells. We came to record it because we were still in Jam studios, but Elvis had got ill, so we had a day booked in the studio and rather than waste that we kind of like did this version up and with the new lyrics that we'd worked out live. And we were very inspired by ‘Maggie May’. And we had a great, great, great fun doing it, so much energy in the track and we really enjoyed the mandolin break at the end. In fact, at one point when it was a single that John Peel said he wanted to play Mandolin on TOTP with us to emulate his appearance with The Faces when they performed ‘Maggie May’ in the 70’s. Unfortunately, we didn't get a high enough position in the chance for that to happen, but it would have been great.

H.O.L.L.A.N.D.

Ken: The title H.O.L.L.A.N.D came from the back of a Valentine’s day card I once received (Honestly) for my first girlfriend and I thought it was so lovely I wrote the song.

Red Guitars

Bobby: Red Guitars is a song that was kind of like a proto political song for us. Obviously, you know, we were very socialist in our leanings . I wrote this song mostly because I wanted Russell to sing it, who was an original Bluebell. We really liked the idea of having three vocalists, me, Ken and Russell. We always thought that was a kind of Buffalo Springfield, Byrdsy kind of thing. And I really loved it when Russell sang it on the Old Grey Whistle Test, but I think Ken really nails it on the recorded version.

Syracuse University

Bobby: Syracuse University came about when we were touring America and I was quite fascinated with Lou Reed being a student, at Syracuse University, and I always had in my head this imagining of the place being a kind of hot bed for culture and literature, but then I found out through American friends when we were over there that most of the students who were at Syracuse University ended up in the arms business, so it kind of destroyed the illusion a bit, but I love this song because of Craig Gannon, who later joined The Smiths , but I'd been in Aztec Camera before he joined us. I loved his guitar playing on this, and I really loved the fact it was a great song for me personally and a great song for the band to record. I really, really, really enjoyed it.

Learn to Love

Ken: The idea behind the song was a great disbelief in an unemployed youth signing up to fight for one's country in some foreign field against some "other" for the "King's shilling" when we would be better learning a bit of peace, love and understanding.

The Patriot Game

Ken: My brother David and I first heard this song sung at a party in our home in the early 70's by the song's writer Dominic Behan. Dominic was a friend of our Mum and Dad's and we were brought up in fairly folky surroundings, a kind of council house bohemia. When we started performing as The Bluebells we asked Dominic to update some of the verses so that it could become more of a universal message for young folk and the futility of war.

South Atlantic Way

Ken: Specifically about the Falklands conflict. David and I wrote this with Dominic Behan in 1982 at a session in our house. We had just watched the news featuring all the pomp and ceremony of the British naval fleet leaving port heading south for battle cheered on by thousands of Union Jack wavers egged on by Thatcher who used the war to change her very unpopular leadership. with a huge 3 million unemployed into the jingoistic ‘Iron Lady’ and the flag shaggers fell for it.

Aim in Life

Ken: The first lyrics I ever wrote when I was 15. It was originally a really up tempo punk song that David and I performed in our schoolboy Punk band the great, Raw Deal with mates Dixie and Donald Kerr. It lay dormant for a few years and I came across the words in an old diary and played around with some chords and turned it into a ballad which Elvis Costello really liked and encouraged us to record. It's about a lonely reclusive lady that I delivered newspapers to. She lived in a huge house but only used one room where she slept in a sleeping bag and watched a lot of T.V. and she would talk to me sometimes. May her God bless her.

Album of the Month Loyle Carner - Hopefully !

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:42:07 GMT

For over a decade, Loyle Carner has been crafting one of the most quietly powerful discographies in UK hip hop - and now, he’s back with his fourth studio album, hopefully ! .

Known for pairing soulful, jazz-tinged beats with deeply personal takes, Carner has carved out a sound that’s unmistakably his own. With two Mercury Prize nominations under his belt and a devoted fanbase to match, it’s safe to say he’s become a staple of the UK scene.

This time around, hopefully ! finds the South Londoner trying out new things - playing with a full live band, and singing for the first time alongside his usual mix of rap and spoken word. Over 11 tracks, he reflects on fatherhood, identity, and growing up - creating his most open and genre-blurring project to date.

Available on indies exclusive rose vinyl, hear hopefully ! the way it was meant to be heard – on wax, with all the warmth and soul that brings. Head down to your favourite independent record shop and pick up your exclusive edition of Loyle Carner’s hopefully ! when it drops on June 20th. It’s sure to soundtrack plenty of long summer nights !

We caught up with Loyle Carner for a few quickfire questions about the album, the artwork, and his favourite indie record shop.

What can fans expect from this album?

hope !

Tell us what inspired the album artwork?

my children, and how they leave a layer of playfulness over everything i do. i left the album cover photo lying around and sunny drew over it.

Do you have a favourite indie record shop you’re looking forward to seeing it on the shelves of?

sounds of the universe in soho

Album of the Month: Jacob Alon – In Limerence

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 23:00:03 GMT

If you’re a fan of Adrianne Lenker, Jeff Buckley, or Nick Drake, you’ll feel right at home here - vulnerability spun into something magic.

'In Limerence, the stunning debut from Jacob Alon, is a heartfelt journey through the highs and lows of obsessive romantic longing. Produced by the legendary Dan Carey, it drops on May 30th - be sure to grab a copy of the Specialist Retail Exclusive Vinyl from your favourite indie record shop!

We caught up with Jacob to chat about how 'In Limerence' came to life:

Hi, Jacob! First off, Limerence isn't a word you come across often - what inspired you to choose that title?

Hey! It just felt like the perfect way to sum up a feeling that runs through each song on the record. To me, limerence describes an obsessive romantic attraction to an idealised version of someone, a projection you place onto them to cope with a deep sense of absence in your life. That’s what it feels like to me, and those are the emotions that resonate through every track on the album.

The album features many field recordings and samples - do any of these sounds hold special significance, or are they tied to particular places or memories for you?

Yes, you're bang on. On Liquid Gold '25, one of my best friends, Rory, and I walked around the streets of Soho in the rain on a busy evening, recording the sounds of the nightlife. I worked there at one point, and a few of the experiences that influenced the writing of that song happened in that area. Soho is a place with such rich queer history, so it made sense to capture those sounds there.

The other field recordings on the album are samples from my early childhood. My mum recently moved house and found a bunch of unlabelled VHS tapes. When we got them digitised, I discovered a lot of lost memories - parts of me that I’d felt disconnected from for a long time. These tapes were from when I was born until about five or six, the time when attachment wounds can form, setting the foundation for the attachment styles we carry into adulthood. It felt like a moment of synchronicity, reflecting on the patterns of connection I form now - and where they might have started. It was both a deep moment of healing and a painful look back at certain points in my past.

Watching that footage wasn’t always easy. The line between memory and dreams can be hard to define, and even the past, from a quantum perspective, might not be fully certain. There was this sense that the boundary between what was real and what wasn’t seemed blurred. And when I’m in a state of limerence, it can feel like I’m losing my grip on reality - like it’s hard to tell the difference between what’s real and what’s fantasy.

Being from Northwest Fife, what aspects of Scotland do you carry with you that might not be obvious?

Oh, that’s such a good one! So much. One of the things that’s influenced me a lot is the brutal honesty, the gritty truthfulness. There’s a brutality in the landscape. It’s a harsh environment, and that shapes a certain stoicism. The part of Fife I’m from is quite grey and brutalist, but there’s so much beauty in it. There’s this fine line between rich nature and the stark, ugly sixties council housing. Both of these elements are so present, and you can’t hide behind them. You have to find your own beauty in the small places. For me growing up, it was about finding the beauty in the small cracks and creatures between the pavements and slabs - that’s where I found magic.

Oh, one more thing, I’ve actually been reflecting on what my Scottish identity means to me recently. In the Celtic lands, there’s this deep sense of story and lore. The Celts were incredible at telling stories through nature. There’s this idea in Celtic folklore about the Otherworld - this parallel dimension where time is non-linear. It actually beat the Marvel Universe to the concept of the multiverse! The Otherworld is where all the knowledge of the universe is kept, and where fairies and creatures live, causing mischief but also holding wisdom. The voices and the artwork are influenced by this, reflecting the unclear boundary between these worlds.

The vinyl has an amazing cover - what’s the story behind it, and who designed it?

I wish I fully knew what it is. It was done by my friend Rory - he did all of the art. I did bits and pieces, but it was mainly him. It actually started off as something smaller, a contorted figure contained within a smaller box. I didn’t realize this at the time, but when you put something onto vinyl, you have to leave a bit of room so the edges can curve around the sleeve. When we expanded it, the edges blurred out, and it became bigger than it was originally. When I saw it, I didn’t know why, but I was really sure that was the cover.

It wasn’t until after reflecting on it that I realized it had taken something real and pulled it out to fit an ideal I’d created. I felt there was a parallel between that and limerence - how you can contort something to your own desires. There’s something haunting about it - mutilated and incomplete but also completed. I find there’s a pain in it that feels resonant. I still wish I could tell you what it is!

And lastly, what role do you think record shops and vinyl still play in music culture today?

I’ve come to appreciate recently the magic of music being made physical. It’s funny how that concept feels more outlandish to me than invisible waves beaming through the air. It’s a beautiful and precious feeling to really own the physical manifestation of the music you really love. It allows you to listen and appreciate an album in a very mindful way - to experience it as a body of work. To run your fingers across the sleeve and read the little secret details and watch the needle dancing across the vinyl as it plays. These little experiences to me are very magical and immersive and mindful.

It’s like taking time to really enjoy the process of making a good cup of coffee - the ritual brings you in closer for a more intimate experience. In the times where I practise this ritual with the records I own, it brings me great joy and it’s a very necessary relief from the fast-food consumerist diet of streaming platforms - and helps to support artists and music culture directly too!

Don’t miss out - grab the Specialist Retail Exclusive Vinyl from your favourite indie record shop and immerse yourself in the captivating magic of In Limerence when it’s released on May 30!

Record Store Day 2025

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:09:54 GMT

It’s hard to believe Record Store Day was already two weeks ago

Time flies! (although we’ll come onto that later).

History in the making.

Almost two weeks ago, queues began, life-long queue friendships were formed and close to 300 indie record shops all across the UK opened their doors to celebrate their unique culture and the art of vinyl. Record Store Day had officially returned for its 18th year, and 2025 was the most successful in its history.

According to ERA, the digital entertainment and retail association, Record Store Day weekend marked a historic moment. 2025 saw the highest number of vinyl record sales through indie record shops since at least 1994. It’s an all-time record! (Pun intended).

And it’s all thanks to everyone that walked into their local indie record shop to celebrate on RSD weekend!

Photo: Dan Bird, Truck Oxford / Witney

As for the Record Store Day exclusives, the UK was feeling supersonic! ‘Time Flies – 1994-2009...’ was the most popular across Record Store Day Weekend, even hitting the third spot on the Official Albums Chart.

If you haven’t already, check out Oasis’ Official ‘25 Supersonic Visualiser on our website.

Photo: Badlands Record Shop, Cheltenham

Now, let's talk celebrations!

Events took the UK by storm over the weekend of April 12th – 13th. From live bands to DJ sets and bring-your-own-records parties to in-store signings, it was truly a celebration to remember. Music lovers took to the streets, from Brighton to Orkney to visit their local indie record shop and join in the fun. Wherever you celebrated, we hope it was an unforgettable weekend.

Record Store Day may be over for another year, but everyone who participated in this year’s celebration has left their mark. As for us, we'll be counting down to #RSD26!

...Too soon? Never.

And that's not all! Don't forget to listen back to BBC Radio 6 Music's official Record Store Day broadcast - recorded live at The Record Cafe in Bradford with Huw Stephens. Plus, loads more from their Vinyl Weekender. Catch up now!

Photo: Behind The Counter Season 6, Capsule Records

Already feeling the nostalgia? There’s still plenty more to enjoy! Why not catch up on Behind The Counter season 6 and watch all the episodes from 2025 over on our Instagram. Fancy delving a bit deeper? Why not catch up on all the episodes from across the last 6 seasons!

Not just that, but RSD Ambassador Sam Fender, Robert Smith of The Cure and Suggs of Madness have each signed pairs of custom Record Store Day branded Bowers & Wilkins award-winning 607 S3 bookshelf speakers. All proceeds raised will be donated to our official charity partner War Child. Find out how to enter here

And don’t forget, until April 30th, our official audio partners Bowers & Wilkins are offering you amazing Record Store Day supporters an exclusive in-store offer for its range of award-winning 600 Series loudspeakers, in collaboration with Richer Sounds. Find out more here !

We’ll see you all next year!

Win a limited edition Bowers & Wilkins’ award-winning 607 S3 bookshelf loudspeaker, signed by Sam Fender, Robert Smith or Suggs

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 17:20:34 GMT

You could be in with a chance of one of these exclusive Record Store Day 2025 wrapped Bowers & Wilkins award-winning 607 S3 bookshelf speakers, signed by Record Store Day Ambassador Sam Fender, Robert Smith of The Cure or Suggs of Madness!

Entry is simple: For just £5 a turn, you will be entered into the raffle of your choice. You can enter as many times as you like - and it’s all for an excellent cause as all proceeds raised will be in aid of our official charity partner War Child UK.

The limited-edition RSD inspired version of Bowers & Wilkins’ award-winning 607 S3 bookshelf loudspeakers are designed for any music lover and Record Store Day fans alike; it’s the attainable and affordable way to experience the joys of the brand’s revered True Sound.

Ready to elevate your RSD listening experience? Enter below!

Sam Fender's signed speaker

Robert Smith's signed speaker

Suggs' signed speaker

The competition will close at 12pm on May 2nd, 2025,

Please note, this competition is open to UK residents only. Full terms and conditions are available at the links above.

‘Supersonic’ (Official ’25 Visualiser)

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 16:00:05 GMT

Ahead of RECORD STORE DAY, a brand new visualiser has been maDE:

First look at the brand-new visualiser for Oasis’ debut single ‘Supersonic’ released to celebrate the Record Store Day exclusive of ‘Time Flies… 1994 – 2009’ . This limited-edition vinyl is a highly sought after re-press comprised of 4 coloured LPs in a deluxe, numbered box set, featuring remastered audio.

‘Time Flies… 1994 – 2009’ is the complete singles collection celebrating the work of Oasis from start to finish. Released on Big Brother Recordings, the tracklisting spans fifteen years across a staggering seven consecutive number one albums. 1994’s ‘Definitely Maybe’, 1995’s ‘(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?’, 1997’s ‘Be Here Now’, 2000’s ‘Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants’, 2002’s ‘Heathen Chemistry’, 2005’s ‘Don’t Believe The Truth’ and ‘Dig Out Your Soul’ from 2008. Starting with their irresistible debut, ‘Supersonic’ and finishing with their last release ‘Falling Down’, the album features all 26 singles.

Digital vs. Vinyl: How Your Format Shapes Your DJ Style

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 09:00:03 GMT

By now the debate between digital and vinyl DJs as to which format is superior has probably reached a truce. After all, both formats have been around long enough to show that there’s enough space for them to happily coexist. But when it comes to the question of digital or vinyl, what’s still very much true is that DJs have strong preferences.

For some, vinyl represents the purest form of the craft—hands-on, tactile, and deeply connected to the roots of DJ culture. Others embrace digital DJing for its flexibility, convenience and creative tools. But beyond the surface differences between vinyl and digital, there are characteristics that can actually wind up shaping a DJ’s coreidentity. From mixing techniques to music discovery, audience perception and performance style, vinyl and digital each impact a DJ’s style in unique ways.

Whether you’re weighing up which path to take or simply curious about how they compare, understanding these key differences can highlight what you value when itcomes to DJing and even music in general.

Mixing & Performance

Perhaps the biggest difference between digital and vinyl DJing is how you control themusic. With vinyl, beat matching is performed entirely by ear us leading turntables like the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 , with manual pitch fader and platter manipulations to keep tracks synced.

Digital setups, on the other hand, can do that syncing for you, but often include creative tools like hot cues and loops. CDJs and controllers like the REV series for rekordbox and Serato allow for on-the-fly edits, stem separation, and effects that would be impossible (or extremely difficult) with vinyl. While vinyl offers a hands-on connection to the music, digital expands the possibilities of what a DJ can do in the mix.

Sound & Feel

Many DJs swear by the warmth of vinyl, claiming it provides a more immersive listening experience. The physicality of digging through crates, dropping the needle, and subtly adjusting the pitch fosters a deep connection to the music. Digital, however, offers reliable sound quality and access to high-resolution audio formats.The feel of DJing with each format is undeniably different, and personal preference plays a huge role in determining which resonates more.

Collecting Music

Building a music collection differs enormously between formats. Digital DJs have instant access to vast libraries, organizing tracks with playlists, meta data and search functions through platforms like rekordbox and Serato. Finding new music is fast, storage is limitless, but the options can be sometimes overwhelming.

Vinyl, by contrast, is a hands-on pursuit. Digging through record shops and market stakes time, but each record is a physical artifact with unique artwork and history.With limited space and, for most people, budget, vinyl DJs must carefully curate their selections, making each record count.

Digital DJs can quickly adapt to trends, while vinyl DJs often develop a deeper, more personal connection to their collection. The best choice really depends on how you prefer to discover and interact with music.

Audience Perception

Beyond practical differences, the format a DJ chooses can shape how they’reperceived. Vinyl DJs often carry a certain credibility, associated with tradition, deep music knowledge and technical skill. Some audiences—even those who don’t DJ themselves—see vinyl as a mark of authenticity.

Digital DJs don’t have an equivalent set of perceptions attached to them, butdepending on the context, they could be seen as modern, futuristic or even asembodying a new type of musicianship—see the Fred again... Boiler Room from 2023 for the most famous example of what we mean here. Of course, neither approach is inherently “better,” but the choice can say a lot about a DJ’s philosophy.

What Does Your Format Say About You?

Ultimately, the decision between digital and vinyl is deeply personal. We’ve outlined some of the reasons DJs are drawn to one format over the other, but there’s more to the story here. Many DJs blend both, using a Digital Vinyl System and a laptop to control digital files on a turntable, or they use modern units like the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 , which bridges the gap between digital and analog.

Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship of vinyl or the innovation of digital, yourtools may shape the type of DJ you are, but it’s your music taste that audiences will ultimately remember.

Dig deeper into the worlds of vinyl and digital DJing through the PLX and REV Series ranges.

One to One: John & Yoko

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 09:16:44 GMT

win one of two pairs of tickets to an exclusive IMAX screening of One to One: John & Yoko at BFI IMAX

In August 1972, John Lennon and Yoko Ono took the stage for the One to One Benefit Concert - a rollicking, electrifying musical event, and Lennon’s only full-length show after leaving The Beatles.

Rooted around this landmark performance - newly remixed and remastered by Sean Ono Lennon - One to One: John & Yoko offers an intimate look inside a defining moment in John & Yoko’s lives, capturing their transformative time in early ‘70s New York.

From Academy-Award winning filmmaker Kevin Macdonald (Marley, Whitney), One to One: John & Yoko draws on a wealth of never-before-seen materials, including home movies and rare recordings, to offer a unique take on one of music’s most famous couples.

Combining unforgettable performances with rare and intimate moments, it’s an immersive cinematic spectacle that music fans won’t want to miss.

And you could win one of two pairs of tickets to an exclusive IMAX screening of One to One: John & Yoko at BFI IMAX—the UK’s biggest screen—on 9th April , followed by a Q&A with Academy Award-winning director Kevin Macdonald!

A revelatory look at one of music’s most iconic couples, One to One: John & Yoko captures the transformational time leading up to the One to One Benefit Concert - John Lennon’s only full-length show after leaving The Beatles. Featuring electrifying performances, never-before-seen home movies and rare recordings, this is John and Yoko as you’ve never seen them before.

Enter here to be in with a chance of winning.The competition closes at 6pm on 7th April.

See it exclusively in IMAX on 9 and 10 April, and cinemas everywhere from 11th April. Head to www.onetoonefilm.com for showtimes and tickets.

JOHNNY MARR HONOURED AS RECORD STORE LEGEND, AHEAD OF RECORD STORE DAY 2025

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:00:02 GMT

PLAQUE UNVEILED AT PICCADILLY RECORDS, MANCHESTER, TO CELEBRATE AHEAD OF THE RELEASE OF JOHNNY MARR’S EXCLUSIVE RECORD STORE DAY 2025 ALBUM RELEASE ‘LOOK OUT LIVE!’ ON ORANGE VINYL

Record Store Day is thrilled to announce Johnny Marr as the 2025 recipient of its Record Store Legend accolade.

This honour celebrates Marr's 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. He is the second recipient of this highly prestigious award.

The accolade is a joint honour presented by both Record Store Day US and UK, following on from the first recipient, Elton John, who received Record Store Legend status in 2017 to celebrate Record Store Day’s 10th Birthday.

The Record Store Legend Award recognizes Marr’s continuing commitment to championing record stores across multiple album campaigns, embodying the spirit and culture of record stores across the world. It is this ongoing collaboration that aims to pave the way for future artists and inspire them to build meaningful and supportive relationships with the indie sector.

To commemorate this honour, a plaque has been unveiled at Marr’s favourite record shop, Piccadilly Records in his hometown of Manchester, England, to reflect Johnny’s deep connection to both the shop, the Manchester music scene and his ongoing commitment to celebrating the culture so vital to championing grassroots talent. The installation of the first Record Store Legend plaque serves as an invitation for fans of Johnny Marr to visit a record store and share their own appreciation.

On seeing the plaque, Johnny 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. I’ve known the staff in Picadilly Records for 20 years…this plaque is a very nice thing to be associated with.”

Andy McQueen, Piccadilly Records said,

“Johnny Marr is our favourite living artist, and his music has soundtracked our lives for over forty years. To be associated with him in this beautiful way; well, the pleasure, the privilege is ours."

Marr's influence extends beyond his own musical contributions; he actively champions the culture that surrounds record shops, recognizing them as vital music spaces, crucial for supporting and breaking new artists and bringing like-minded music fans together.

The 18th annual celebration of Record Store Day takes place on 12th April 2025 and sees thousands of independent record shops worldwide set to participate with parties, in-store performances and limited-edition releases from over 300 artists.

Johnny Marr celebrates Record Store Day 2025 with an exclusive release Look Out Live!, a double orange vinyl LP encapsulating the magic of his sold-out show at Hammersmith Apollo in London 2024, only in independent record shops on 12th April. The track listing includes live fan favourites, ‘Hi Hello’, ‘Easy Money’ and ‘Somewhere’, The Smiths’ classics' ‘This Charming Man’, ‘How Soon Is Now?’, and Electronic’s ‘Getting Away with It’ (ft Neil Tennant).

Johnny Marr began his prolific career with The Smiths, founding a legacy as one of the most influential songwriters and guitarists in British independent music. Since launching in 2013, his acclaimed solo career has given rise to five UK Top Ten albums - The Messenger (2013), Playland (2014), Call The Comet (2018), Fever Dreams Pts 1-4 (2022) and Spirit Power: The Best Of Johnny Marr (2023) - a record that captured the full measure of this extraordinarily prolific period.

Johnny’s solo career has also seen him collaborate with some of the most celebrated artists in contemporary music, including the Talking Heads, Pretenders, Electronic, Modest Mouse, The Cribs, The Avalanches, Hans Zimmer and Billie Eilish, recently recording the score and soundtrack for the latest James Bond film, No Time To Die.

Following sold out headline shows across the UK, US, and major festival appearances on The Spirit Power Tour, Johnny Marr will make a UK 2025 festival exclusive performance at Forever Now on 22 June.

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: SELF ESTEEM -A Complicated Woman

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 23:15:00 GMT

After making waves with her second album, Prioritise Pleasure - named Album of the Year by both The Guardian and The Sunday Times - Self Esteem returns with A Complicated Woman. Out April 25, 2025, via Polydor Records on specialist retail exclusive red vinyl, the album is another bold, personal, and cathartic collection that leans into Rebecca Lucy Taylor’s knack for blending vulnerability with stadium-sized confidence.

Where Prioritise Pleasure was about figuring things out, A Complicated Woman is about owning it. Taylor embraces the power of collective experience, with a choir of friends, collaborators, and bandmates joining her throughout the record. From euphoric highs to reflective lows, it’s an album that leans into life’s contradictions and complexities.

Track Highlights: A Sneak Peek

Focus Is Power – A full-throttle empowerment anthem about taking control of your future, inspired by Taylor’s own journey through major life changes like freezing her eggs and navigating homeownership: "There are big things I’m doing to set myself up for an okay existence."

Mother – A wry house track, which could have been mixed by Armand van Helden, is a reflection on acting as a mother to those in relationships.

69 – Featuring drag queen Meatball, this punchy, politically charged track explores women’s pleasure and autonomy: "I always wanted to write a song that lists sex positions and rates them... A lot of my music is saying the things I struggle to say in real life. I like the idea of clearly communicating your needs in one quick, three-minute house song."

The Deep Blue Okay – The album’s closer, a Springsteen-esque anthem about letting go and making peace with life’s contradictions: "I’ve spent my whole life lying about the things I want, about the things I should have done."

Self Esteem has never shied away from difficult conversations, and A Complicated Woman further cements her as one of pop’s most important voices. Whether you’re drawn to its soaring choruses, razor-sharp lyricism, or unfiltered honesty, don’t just listen - live with it, think about it, and let it inspire you to embrace the beautiful mess that is life!

Don’t miss out - grab a copy when it drops and support your local indie record shop with the specialist retail exclusive red vinyl.

Record Store Day Announces Fundraising Activities for War Child

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 00:15:00 GMT

14 RELEASES INCLUDING SUGABABES, DAVID SYLVIAN, CHVRCHES AND THE CURE TO DONATE £1 FROM EVERY UNIT SOLD TO RAISE MONEY FOR CHILDREN AFFECTED BY CONFLICT

Record Store Day is turning up the volume for its official charity partner, War Child, with a stellar line up of artists such as Sugababes, The Charlatans & Van Morrison lending their support.

Record Store Day will be taking place on Saturday 12th April 2025, giving music fans will have the chance to purchase fourteen highly collectible vinyl releases available exclusively at participating independent record shops. Not only that but, for every copy sold, £1 will be donated to War Child to support their work providing specialist mental health care, education, shelter, and emergency supplies for children affected by conflict worldwide. Record shops in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands will also be taking part, and fans in these territories can head here (DE) and here (NL) to find participating stores.

This year's set of exclusive titles has something for every music fan! From special anniversary editions of classic albums to rare demo recordings and exclusive first time-on-vinyl records. 2025 marks the fifth set of collectibles created for the War Child x RSD campaign, which has raised over £120k for the charity since its inception.

Richard Clarke, Head of Music at War Child said:

“We are delighted to be the charity partner for Record Store Day once again in 2025. We’re extremely proud of and honoured to help celebrate the community of independent record stores, the role they play in championing artists and the art of the album. Right now, it's the most dangerous time to be a child living through war, with nearly 1 in 5 children around the world impacted. The support of Record Store Day and the music industry couldn’t be more urgent and needed.”

The 2025 War Child Exclusive Vinyl Releases include (Titles May Vary by Country):

The Boomtown Rats - Dawn of the Rats: B-Sides Demos And Live 1975-1979

Experience the Boomtown Rats in their rawest form with this transparent green vinyl collection of early demos, B-sides, and live recordings.

Boys Wonder - Be Reasonable…

A companion release to Question Everything, featuring two exclusive tracks not included on the LP.

The Charlatans - Wonderland (Deluxe)

Universal Music Recordings and Island Records are making The Charlatans' 2001 album Wonderland available on limited edition white and red vinyl. This new 2LP set contains six bonus tracks not included on the original album.

CHVRCHES - Every Open Eye (10-Year Anniversary Version)

A special double vinyl reissue of CHVRCHES’ sophomore album, marking its 10th anniversary.

The Cure - The Head on The Door (40th Anniversary RSD 2025 Picture Disc Exclusive)

Celebrating 40 years of The Cure’s 6th album, this first-time Picture Disc edition is remastered by Robert Smith and cut by Miles Showell at Abbey Road. Housed in a die-cut sleeve designed by original artist Andy Vella.

Mark Knopfler - One Take Radio Sessions (20th Anniversary 2025)

This 8-track EP, recorded live in a single take at Shangri-La Studios, returns for its 20th anniversary.

OMD - Peel Sessions 1979-1983

Never before on vinyl! Marking 25 years since its original CD release, this edition brings together all Peel Sessions for the first time in any format.

Passengers – Original Soundtracks 1 (30th Anniversary Remastered Edition)

‘Original Soundtracks 1’, the studio album by Brian Eno and U2, was released in November 1995 under the artist pseudonym Passengers. This special 30th anniversary edition, pressed on recycled black vinyl, is now fully remastered for the first time.

Sugababes - Taller in More Ways

The Sugababes’ 2005 album makes its vinyl debut on limited edition pink vinyl, featuring gold foil lettering, a black inner bag, and a double-sided lyric insert.

David Sylvian – Camphor

First-ever vinyl release of this instrumental collection, featuring collaborations with Holger Czukay, Bill Nelson, and Rain Tree Crow.

Frank Turner - Positive Songs for Negative People

A limited blue-and-red vinyl pressing, including a bonus LP with the Mittens EP B-sides (first time on vinyl) and the previously unreleased Hamburg Demos.

Van Morrison - Be Just and Fear Not (10” Etched Vinyl)

Three live tracks originally intended to stand alone from Live at Orangefield, now available on etched 10” vinyl.

Years & Years – Communion

Celebrating 10 years of Communion, this double LP zoetrope pressing features new side designs by Drew Tetz and the viral hit Breathe.

Jamiroquai – Funk Odyssey

This special Record Store Day 2LP release is pressed on “Corner Of The Earth Blue Green splatter vinyl”

If you’re into music and collecting records, these releases are a great way to snag something special while supporting a good cause! Ready to dive in? You can view the full Record Store Day list of releases here .

As ever, Record Store Day continues to celebrate the passion, culture, and community of independent record shops. These exclusive releases are demonstrative of the collective love for vinyl that brings us all together.

Like all the titles on this year’s list of releases , the Record Store Day x War Child exclusives are available exclusively in-store at one of the participating independent record shops on Saturday 12th of April. Find your local store here and join in the celebrations!

MIRAVAL’S MYSTERY VINYL POP-UP RETURNS

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:15:00 GMT

It's back!

Prepare for an unforgettable musical experience as RSD and Studio by Miraval, in collaboration with War Child, present a special pop-up event at F Block, 15 Hanbury Street in London E1 !

Taking place on Thursday, April 10th from 12 PM - 8 PM, this event is truly one-of-a-kind. Merging music, wine, and community, in aid of a great cause.

For just £5, visitors can participate in a mystery lucky dip which guarentees a brand-new vinyl record to take home. To top it off, perfectly a refreshing glass of Studio by Miraval rosé. But wait, it gets better. All proceeds go directly to supporting War Child and CALM, two remarkable

charities making a difference.

In addition, one lucky person will uncover and walk away with the special Studio by Miraval “golden disc” which rewards them with a Limited-Edition Magnum by Studio Miraval.

We don't mean to brag, but it's going to be one to remember!

RSVP now and secure your visit (it's free!)

So, here's what you can expect:

An immersive experience for every music lover to enjoy
A celebration of the spirit of independent record shops
The chance to listen to your brand-new vinyl on a state-of-the-art Bowers & Wilkins audio system in their dedicated listening space
Exclusive Miraval merch including T-shirts, bucket hats, posters, tote bags and more
The chance to buy exclusive screen prints, designed by acclaimed multidisciplinary artist Yinka Ilori
Hear more about War Child's Secret 7" annual charity auction of 700 unique records
The chance to meet like-minded vinyl record, wine and music lovers

Of course, you won't want to miss the intimate acoustic set by Creeping Jean at 5 PM!

The Brighton-based band are also releasing a special Record Store Day exclusive for Saturday 12th April, with two specially recorded tracks Spice Rack and God Bless Honking Clover on The Clothes Shop 7”. Recorded inside their own vintage clothes shop in Brighton, the band are keen supporters of the high street:

“When the idea came up to record in the shop and release something exclusive for RSD, it was a no-brainer,” says the band. “We’re vinyl collectors ourselves and just around the corner from amazing record stores like Resident. This whole release is about celebrating and supporting the high street.” You can catch Creeping Jean on tour this April.

“Partnering with Record Store Day on this brilliantly curated event exemplifies our shared passion for music, creativity, pleasure and giving back to the community. We can’t wait to see everyone come together for a day of enjoyment and discovery…music for your tastebuds.’’

- Andrew Bayley, General Manager at Famille Perrin UK.

The event is a prelude to the Record Store Day on Saturday, April 12th - celebrating the culture of record stores and the art of vinyl. All proceeds from Miraval's Mystery Vinyl will support two important charities: War Child and CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).

With all of this and more to look forward to, find us at F Block, 15 Hanbury Street, London E1 - part of the vibrant Truman Brewery cultural hub, on Thursday 10th April 2025 !

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: LUCY DACUS - FOREVER IS A FEELING

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:17:23 GMT

Album of the Month: Lucy Dacus – Forever is a Feeling

Lucy Dacus is back with Forever Is a Feeling, and let’s just say, she’s not holding back. This album is bigger, bolder, and full of emotional gut punches (the good kind). Wrapped in a Renaissance-inspired aesthetic, Forever Is a Feeling blends traditional sounds with lush production, creating something both timeless and refreshingly modern.

What's the sound?

It kicks off with Calliope, an instrumental track that sets the mood like the opening scene of a great movie. Collaborators like Bartees Strange, Jay Som, and Hozier help bring new textures to Dacus’s signature storytelling. Where Home Video reflected on youth, this album does the opposite. Diving headfirst into grown-up love, messy emotions, and tough choices. Ankles is playful and intense, Limerence wrestles with commitment fears, and Best Guess might just be your new favourite wedding song. Plus, her boygenius bandmates, Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker, make a few welcome appearances.

It all wraps up with Lost Time, a reminder that nothing lasts forever - but that’s what makes it special. Honest, lush, and extremely addictive, Forever Is a Feeling is an early standout of the year.

Grab the Specialist Retail Exclusive Liquid Gold Vinyl from your local independent retailer while it lasts and embrace the spotlight with her!

THE RECORD STORE DAY 2025 LIST HAS LANDED!

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 18:00:02 GMT

ANNOUNCING this year’s list of exclusives and special releases - coming TO YOUR LOCAL INDIE RECORD SHOP on Saturday 12th April 2025!

This year's list of collectible and limited-edition records from some of the biggest and most exciting names in music is finally yours.

Hundreds of artists have come together to celebrate the UK's independent record shops, including the likes of Sam Fender, Oasis, Taylor Swift, Charli Xcx, Goat & Graveyard, The Jesus & Mary Chain and many more!

Not only that, but music fans can expect a variety of special releases spanning rock, pop, soul, jazz, hip-hop, reggae, classical, and folk - plus three Harry Potter soundtracks. There's something for everyone to enjoy at their local record store this April.

Get ready to dance!

For the first time ever, the Brit nominated Fred again.. will release his 'Actual Life' piano live sessions on vinyl.

"For Record Store Day this year in April, we are gonna continue the IRL vinyl series by printing the the Actual Life Piano Lives to vinyl for the first time. This vinyl series is always gonna be limited pressings of live moments that felt particularly special and these are some of my favourite things we’ve done.

Buttttt we only ever made the piano lives for AL2 and AL3 and so many of you were asking for AL1, so 4 years after the original Actual Life album came out on Record Store Day in 2021, I’ve recorded the actual life 1 piano live a few weeks ago. We are working wit Vinyl Factory (who did all the other IRL vinyl) to produce something really special. The record will be available on 12th April for record store day in all the stores taking part.”

Also celebrating Record Store Day, get ready for titles from the likes of Beabadoobee, Charli XCX, Rachel Chinouriri, Confidence Man, The Cure, English Teacher, Michael Kiwanuka and RSD25 Ambassador Sam Fender. Also joining the lineup, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Lil Uzi Vert, Megan Thee Stallion, MJ Lenderman, and Post Malone will be releasing titles for music-lovers all over the UK.

With so many more artists releasing exclusive titles in support of the UK independant record shop scene, keep your eyes on our website and socials to never miss an update! Sign up to our newsletter here to be the first to know the latest info.

Save the date! Record Store Day will take place on Saturday 12th April 2025.

SAM FENDER ANNOUNCED AS AMBASSADOR OF RECORD STORE DAY UK

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 00:15:00 GMT

“ME AND THE DOG” EP TO DROP EXCLUSIVELY FOR
RECORD STORE DAY ON SATURDAY 12th APRIL, FEATURING 2 BRAND NEW TRACKS

CREDIT Sarah Louise Bennett

Record Store Day UK is proud to announce Sam Fender as this year’s official ambassador. As part of the role, Sam is set to champion the vibrant and unique culture of UK record shops and their vital role in local communities.

To mark the occasion, Sam will also a release a limited-edition 6 track EP, “Me and the Dog” on 12” vinyl, available over the counter only on Saturday 12th April, from participating shops. The EP features two-brand new tracks, alongside fan favourites and songs never pressed onto vinyl before:

Joining the ranks of iconic past ambassadors including Kate Bush, Taylor Swift, the 1975, Noel Gallagher and Elton John, Sam is ready to share his love of vinyl and record shop culture to the 2025 event. He said:

“It’s a complete honour to be asked to be the Ambassador for Record Store Day 2025. The importance of indie stores cannot be understated. Without them, we lose physical spaces for music fans to discover both their favourite new artists and to forge friendships with likeminded people.  

This year is an exciting one for me and the band with the release of our new album, People Watching. We were so privileged to be able to work with the family of legendary North East photographer Tish Murtha and use her photography across the album’s artwork for all formats. 

The EP we’re releasing for Record Store Day is called “Me And The Dog EP”, which at one point was going to be the name of the new album, so it just feels right that it should have its own moment. We’ve included two songs that haven’t been released -  I’m Always On Stage and Empty Spaces. 

Thanks so much to all the independent stores around the world who support us. Let’s all make sure we support them too.”

Over 270 small and independent shops are set to take part in this year’s Record Store Day as it continues to be a driving force behind the vinyl revival, boosting the fortune of indie record shops and cementing their place at the heart of UK high streets.

Alan Jordan, the owner of Reflex Records in Newcastle, said:

“ We’re absolutely buzzing to have Sam Fender as this year’s ambassador for Record Store Day. Sam’s a local legend, and the way he’s championed the Northeast and stayed true to his roots is exactly what independent record stores are all about – community, authenticity, and passion for music. Not only that, but he’s a real vinyl fan too! It’s great to see an artist who grew up down the road bring a spotlight on what we do. From buying Springsteen’s ‘Born to Run’ from our shop – to seeing him on the world’s stage – there couldn’t be a better artist to fly the flag for indie record shops!”

Record Store Day takes place on Saturday 12th April. A full list of participating shops and can be found on www.recordstoreday.co.uk

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: INHALER - OPEN WIDE

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 07:56:06 GMT

Album of the Month: Inhaler – Open Wide (Polydor)

February is packed with exciting new releases, but Open Wide, the latest album from Dublin’s Inhaler, stands out as a major highlight. Their third LP pushes their sound further than ever, blending sharp songwriting with bold production. For vinyl collectors, there’s an indie-exclusive pink vinyl featuring stunning alternate artwork – grab it before it's gone!

What’s the Sound?

Produced by Kid Harpoon, Open Wide blends guitar-driven energy with sleek production. Its 13 tracks mix raw emotion and anthemic melodies. From the nostalgic hook of “Your House” to the stadium-sized “Open Wide,” it’s a deeply personal album destined for big moments.

Vinyl Alert

If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, don’t miss the indie exclusive pink vinyl equipped with stunning alternate artwork, available from your favourite independent record shops . It’s a collector’s item that pairs perfectly with the album’s bold, fresh sound.

With Open Wide, the band solidifies its place as one of the most exciting young acts today. Whether you’ve been following them for years or are just discovering their music, this album is a must-listen. Stream it, grab the indie exclusive vinyl, and don’t miss them live - Inhaler is a band you’ll be hearing a lot more about!

Behind The Counter Returns for 2025

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 15:00:27 GMT

The Ultimate Celebration of Independent Record Shops is back!

The wait is over! The video series celebrating the heart of the UK’s record shop culture returns for 2025.

Premiering on 21st January 2025 , this year’s 12-part series promises to shine a spotlight on the unique stories, passion, and dedication that make record shops the soul of their communities.

Now in its sixth season, Behind the Counter has captivated audiences with over 2.5 million views to date. It brings music fans closer to the people and places that have fuelled the vinyl revival and is a love letter to the discovery of music in its most personal form.

This season takes viewers across the UK, from Bangor to Brighton, London to Liverpool, introducing a fresh line-up of twelve record stores:

Bending Sound, Bangor
Capsule Records, Brighton
Dash The Henge, London
Lucky’s Record Bar, Cornwall
Off The Record, Milton Keynes
Out of the Attic, Hull
Phoenix Sounds, Devon
Raven Records, London
Sound Records, Isle of Man
Spinning Around Records, Telford
The Musical Box, Liverpool
Thirteen Records, Dundee

Each episode, premieres on Tuesdays at 10 AM GMT on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube, giving fans an intimate look at the owners and their shops.

Whether it’s running a record shop with a “pop feminist twist” (Spinning Around Records), being “the centre of metal” (Raven Records) or using music to raise important funds for the local hospice (Off The Record), there is an underlying love and passion for the vinyl format behind every shop door. Chris OC from Dash the Henge says:

“Records are quite fascinating objects when you look at them. Before you truly understand what's going on, it's just magic. It's not just about collecting but it's about listening as well.”

The series comes at a time when vinyl sales continue their unprecedented growth as the Digital Entertainment & Retail Association (ERA) reported a 10.5% rise in vinyl album sales to £196 million in 2024, marking the 18 ^th year of growth for the format.

Overall recorded music sales reached a record-breaking £2.4 billion, with 14% of revenues deriving from physical formats, cementing the importance of physical media and record shops in today’s music landscape.

The series continues its long-term collaboration with British audio brand, Bowers & Wilkins , celebrating the impact high quality sound can have on the experience that vinyl offers.

Don’t miss an episode! Follow us for updates and new releases:

Facebook: @Record Store Day UK // @ClassicAlbumSundays // @BowersWilkins
Twitter / X: @RSDUK // @ClassicAlbumSun // @ BowersWilkins
Instagram: @RSDUK // @ClassicAlbumSundays // @BowersWilkins

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: THE WEEKND - HURRY UP TOMORROW

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 13:04:28 GMT

They say good things come in threes, and Hurry Up Tomorrow is no exception. The Weeknd’s latest release wraps up his iconic trilogy that began with After Hours and continued with Dawn FM. This final chapter takes his signature blend of melancholic R&B and cinematic synthwave to even greater emotional depths, leaning into themes of redemption, loss, and self-reflection - all carried by Abel Tesfaye’s unmistakable falsetto.

There’s plenty to unpack on this album. Timeless, a brooding collaboration with Playboi Carti, and Sao Paulo, where Anitta’s sultry vocals meet lush Latin rhythms, are just two of the standout tracks. The album perfects the sound The Weeknd has cultivated over this trilogy - atmospheric and reflective, a soundtrack for late-night introspection.

For vinyl lovers, there’s something extra to look forward to. Hurry Up Tomorrow will be available Via Universal Music as an indie exclusive clear vinyl , complete with another iconic album cover. The album drops on January 31st, so be sure to grab a copy from your favourite local indie record shop!

Celebrate this incredible trilogy and the end of a significant era in music history. Take the time to savour it, we’ve come a long way together.

The Weeknd’s racked up more billion-streamed tracks than anyone else. Let’s break down some of the hits that have helped him get there:

Blinding Lights (After Hours)

If there’s one song that defines The Weeknd’s career, it’s Blinding Lights. That irresistible synth line feels like it’s straight out of the '80s but somehow still ahead of its time. It’s the kind of song that works anywhere - on the dance floor, in the car, or just stuck in your head for days. No wonder it smashed streaming records and became a global anthem.

House of Balloons/Glass Table Girls (House of Balloons)

This is where it all started. House of Balloons/Glass Table Girls is dark, moody, and unapologetically raw. Like stepping into a blurry afterparty you’re not sure you should be at, but you can’t leave, and don’t want to.

Take My Breath (Dawn FM)

Pure disco magic. The beat pulls you in, the synths shimmer, and The Weeknd’s falsetto takes it to another level. It’s smooth, hypnotic, and just the right amount of retro.

Starboy (Feat. Daft Punk) (Starboy)

This track is The Weeknd’s ‘I’ve arrived’ moment. Teaming up with Daft Punk, Starboy is sleek, futuristic, and dripping with confidence. The beat’s simple but so effective, and the hook is unforgettable. It’s a flex, but it’s also a peek into the darkside of fame - delivered with style, of course.

The Hills (Beauty Behind the Madness)

The Hills is The Weeknd at his darkest and most honest. That eerie opening, the thunderous bass - it all pulls you into a confession that feels uncomfortably real. It’s raw, it’s vulnerable, and it hits hard, which is probably why fans keep coming back to it.

RECORD STORE DAY RETURNS 12TH APRIL 2025

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 13:31:38 GMT

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF VINYL AND INDIE RECORD SHOPS IN THE MUSIC CALENDAR!

Mark your calendars! Record Store Day (RSD) returns for its 18th edition on the 12th April 2025. Over 270 independent record shops across the UK, alongside thousands more around the globe, gear up for their biggest celebration of vinyl releases, in-store parties and independent record store culture.

As RSD celebrates its 18th birthday, alongside 18 years of incredible growth for vinyl and independent retailers, what better way to kick things off than with the announcement of a brand-new beer partner – DEYA!

Stay tuned to Record Store Day for all the latest news and updates as we countdown to Record Store Day 2025!

RECORD STORE DAY'S GIFT GUIDE 2024

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 09:49:40 GMT

What a year of amazing releases we've had! With Christmas right around the corner, we knew it was high time to create a gift guide for discerning music lovers. After surveying the Record Store Day team and over 250 independent record shops nationwide, we’re proud to present the Ultimate Record Store Day Gift Guide 2024 - packed with this year’s most-loved albums, perfect for the savvy gift-giver! ��

INTRODUCING OUR RSDUNSIGNED WINNER 2024

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

4 The Brotherhood has been crowned champion of this year’s #RSDUnsigned competition!

We're buzzing to introduce you to this year's winner of our RSDUnsigned competition, 4TheBrotherhood .

Described as a “Rising Indie Star” by Wonderland Magazine, 4TheBrotherhood has already earnt recognition as a Next Gen Fund applicant. Not only that, but his music has been featured on ITV’s hit reality TV show, Love Island, and he has enjoyed collaborative work with Filipino-American superstar Ez Mil.

Sonically, 4TheBrotherhood hones a unique sound, blending indie influences with a fresh, genre-defying edge. A masterful and nostalgic mesh of 2000s pop with indie-pop, rock, and alternative R&B influences. With the RSDunsigned competition win under his belt, his music will now be immortalised on 500 vinyl records.

RSDUnsigned judge and singer songwriter, Nina Nesbitt, described 4TheBrotherhood 's entry as: “Such great energy! Fresh and different from anything else now but also love the nostalgic feel to it.”

In addition to his 500 vinyl records prize, 4TheBrotherhood has won an eight-week talent development programme for artists with Charmfactory, as well as securing 4 a coveted spot on the lineup for Truck Festival 2025.

Based on 4TheBrotherhood 's electrifying live performances at last year’s All Points East Festival, those in attendance at Truck Festival next year are in for a treat!

Stay tuned to Record Store Day and Breed Media over the coming months for more information on their special vinyl release.

About RSDUnsigned

#RSDUnsigned is the nationwide contest that gives talented unsigned and DIY artists the opportunity to win their music pressed onto vinyl. Previous winners have included Amy Fitz Doyley, Currls, Sister Cookie and Heavy Rapids – all of whom have gone on to enjoy success on the festival circuit and plays on national radio.

Robert Smith breaks down the tracks on Songs Of A Lost World, our Album of the Month

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 09:00:01 GMT

Record Store Day is over the moon to introduce a brand-new, year-round feature, our Album of the Month .

Each month, we’ll shine a spotlight on a specialist retail exclusive you can snag at your local record shop.

And who better to kick things off than a band that’s been a record store staple for over four decades? We’re thrilled to present The Cure and their highly anticipated new release: A specialist retail exclusive Grey Marbled Bio Vinyl edition of Songs Of A Lost World .

This marks their first album in 16 years, and it’s everything fans could hope for. Songs Of A Lost World taps into The Cure’s signature rock sound, exploring themes of death, loss, and memory that feel as raw and powerful as they did back in 1979.

Plus, record collectors will appreciate the stunning artwork by Slovenian sculptor Janez Pirnat, depicting the striking image of a head emerging from stone - a fitting symbol of transformation and endurance, perfectly mirroring the band’s journey over the years.

So, grab your specialist retail exclusive Grey Marbled Bio Vinyl of Songs Of A Lost World from your local record shop today, and get ready to immerse yourself in their timeless, haunting sound (once again).

That’s not all!

In the words of Robert Smith here’s his very own Track by Track run down:

1. Alone

I’ve got a telescope, and I love being outside and looking at the sky, usually there’s a fire going, when the fire dies down and the stars blink out and dawn arrives and there’s a feeling of, aw, the nights gone. For most people it’s the sun comes up, for me it’s the stars are disappearing. I wanted to capture that feeling of feeling very solitary. Theres a moment when that happens, when you suddenly realise it’s getting light, and you feel incredibly vulnerable and alone.

2. And Nothing is Forever

This is about a promise I made to someone who was very ill that I would be with them when they died. It’s that simple. And I wasn’t, and because I wasn’t, I wrote this song. It’s a small compensation from me. It’s not good to break promises.

3. A Fragile Thing

It's about love. How love is the most enduring of emotions. It’s the most powerful emotion and its incredibly resilient and at the same time incredibly fragile. That’s paradoxical, I know. You feel in danger of destroying something, and yet, you know it can’t be destroyed.

4. Warsong

It’s a generalised song about how we’re born to war. Sadly, as I’ve grown older, I’ve started to believe it more. I was brought up to believe in the best, to believe that people are generally good unless proved otherwise, it’s hard to maintain that as you grow old as there’s so much evidence that points in the opposite direction. People are always fighting each other for absolutely nothing, it’s so ridiculous. In my mind, the most dismal song on the album, great guitar solo, though

5. Drone:NoDrone

Someone sent a drone over our house, and it really upset me. It really pissed me off, (The song) ended up being me coming to terms with my reaction to it, of how I’m becoming an old grouch, it’s very easy to tip over into fond memories of a world that is rapidly disappearing or has already. Thankfully, I’m aware my reactions to the modern world are a bit extreme. Drone:NoDrone was about me coming to terms with the end of a chaotic life, at times. Do I have the drive and the persistence to continue, can I step back out and continue doing this? I can, I will, I do. But there are moments I just want to leave the front door shut and go back upstairs.

6. I Can Never Say Goodbye

When my older brother, Richard, died, obviously it affected me a lot. He brought me up, he taught me everything when I was younger. There was an enormous outpour of emotion. I needed to get what I was feeling out of me. (This song is) a very simple narrative of what happened on the night that he died. It allowed me to deal with it all.

7. All I Ever Am

It's the hardest song to explain (…) It’s a strange feeling of disassociation from myself and it was that I was trying to put in the song. It’s an odd song, it took the longest for me to be happy with it.

8. Endsong

It was me looking back at the moon landings, and thinking where did it all go? I feel the same looking up at the moon as I did when I was 10, but I’m not the same, and yet, I kind of am. The moon’s pretty much the same.

Record Store Day Black Friday Releases Unveiled

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:00:12 GMT

Exclusive releases from Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Jungle and many more!

Get ready for Record Store Day's sister event, Black Friday, returning on Friday 29 ^th November with a stellar lineup of special releases, exclusively for indie record shops.

This year’s Black Friday edition is packed with exciting releases from The Beatles, Jungle, Bebe Rexha, and Rage Against the Machine, ensuring there’s something for every music fan to celebrate.

With over 100 artists spanning a diverse range of genres, this year’s event features limited edition pressings that will be available exclusively at independent record stores across the UK from 8am on 29 ^th November. You can find all the participating stores here .

Each year, Record Store Day aims to put a fresh spin on Black Friday. Rather than getting lost in the bargain-bin frenzy, it focusses instead on creating truly special collectible editions of releases that music lovers of all ages and backgrounds will treasure for years to come.

Without further ado, check out the list of exclusive releases coming soon to your local independent record shop. For details on each title, check out the release page here !

U2 NEW PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED TRACKS

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 09:25:40 GMT

‘HOW TO RE-ASSEMBLE AN ATOMIC BOMB’ THE SHADOW ALBUM

TEN SONGS FROM THE ORIGINAL ‘HOW TO DISMANTLE AN ATOMIC BOMB’ GRAMMY-WINNING ALBUM SESSIONS

OUT 29 NOVEMBER 2024 EXCLUSIVELY FOR RECORD STORE DAY BLACK FRIDAY

FIRST TWO TRACKS

‘Country Mile’ & ‘Picture Of You (X + W)’

OUT NOW - LISTEN HERE

WATCH LYRIC VIDEOS HERE

26th September 2024 - To mark the 20th anniversary of U2’s critically-acclaimed eight-time Grammy-winning album How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb, Island Records and UMR today announce the release of a shadow album titled How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb, which includes new, unreleased songs discovered in the archive of the original album recording sessions. Set for a standalone release on 29 ^th November 2024, the first songs to be made available from How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb are ‘Country Mile’ and ‘Picture Of You (X + W)’, listen here . Watch lyric videos here .

To further celebrate the anniversary of this seminal album, How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb has now been remastered for the first time, a process which saw the band go back to the vault to revisit those early ‘00s recording sessions, a period of intense creativity for U2 in the studio, as well as a time of deep personal and artistic reflection following the passing of Bono’s father Bob in 2001. This special 20th anniversary edition – out 22 ^nd November - will include the bonus track ‘Fast Cars’. See below for a complete list of formats. How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb (Re-Assemble Edition) – featuring both How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb + How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb - will be available as a dual digital release on 22 ^nd November.

The Edge said of How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb – “The sessions for ‘How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb’ were such a creative period for the band, we were exploring so many song ideas in the studio. We were inspired to revisit our early music influences, and it was a time of deep personal introspection for Bono who was attempting to process - dismantle - the death of his father.

For this anniversary edition I went into my personal archive to see if there were any unreleased gems and I hit the jackpot. We chose ten that really spoke to us. Although at the time we left these songs to one side, with the benefit of hindsight we recognize that our initial instincts about them being contenders for the album were right, we were onto something.

What you’re getting on this shadow album is that raw energy of discovery, the visceral impact of the music, a sonic narrative, a moment in time, the exploration and interaction of four musicians playing together in a room… this is the pure U2 drop.”

How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb is a collection of ten songs taken from the original recording sessions for ‘How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb’ - U2’s critically acclaimed, eight-time Grammy winning album - recently rediscovered in the band’s archive and now released for the first time as a standalone album. This shadow album includes new, never-before-heard or previously released songs - ‘Treason’, ‘Evidence Of Life’, ‘Country Mile’ and ‘Happiness’; plus a song called ‘Luckiest Man In The World’ - familiar to fans under its working title ‘Mercy’, an early demo of which was leaked online almost 20 years ago - which now gets its official release; as well as five newly remastered songs - ‘Picture Of You (X+W)’, ‘I Don't Wanna See You Smile’, ‘Are We Gonna Wait Forever?’, ‘Theme From The Batman’ and ‘All Because Of You 2’ - all collected together for the first time to mark the 20 ^th anniversary of ‘How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb’.

How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb is U2’s eleventh studio album. Released by Island Records / Interscope on 22 ^nd November 2004, it went to No. 1 in 34 countries around the world, including Ireland, the UK and the US. Described by Bono at the time as “our first rock album”, How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb was recorded at the band’s studio in Hanover Quay, Dublin and the South of France, and produced by Steve Lilywhite, with additional production from Chris Thomas, Flood, Jacknife Lee, Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois, Nellee Hooper and Carl Glanville. The 11 tracks included the songs ‘Vertigo’ and ‘Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own’, both of which debuted at No. 1 in the UK charts, the first time a U2 album produced two chart topping singles. How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb and its singles won a total of eight Grammy Awards, sweeping all of the categories in which the band were nominated, with ‘Vertigo’ alone winning three in 2005, including Best Rock Song. The band were the night’s big winners in 2006, taking home the Grammy for Album of the Year, as well as Song of the Year for ‘Sometimes You Can’t Make It On Your Own’ and Best Rock Song for ‘City of Blinding Lights’, with Steve Lilywhite also winning Producer of the Year.

The tracklisting for How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb is:

1. Picture Of You (X+W)

2. Evidence Of Life

3. Luckiest Man In The World

4. Treason

5. I Don't Wanna See You Smile

6. Country Mile

7. Happiness

8. Are We Gonna Wait Forever?

9. Theme From The Batman

10. All Because Of You 2

The tracklisting for the remastered How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb 20 ^th Anniversary Reissue is:

1. Vertigo

2. Miracle Drug

3. Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own

4. Love and Peace or Else

5. City of Blinding Lights

6. All Because of You

7. A Man and a Woman

8. Crumbs from Your Table

9. One Step Closer

10. Original of the Species

11. Yahweh

12. Fast Cars

The remastered How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb (20th Anniversary Edition) will be released in the following formats on 22 ^nd November: Vinyl 8LP Super Deluxe Collectors Boxset (Limited Edition); Vinyl 2LP; Exclusive D2C 2LP Black & Red Ink Spot Vinyl (Limited Edition); 5CD Super Deluxe Collectors Boxset (Limited Edition); CD; and Exclusive Red & Black Cassette (Limited Edition). The digital releases include HTDAAB remastered (12 tracks); and HTDAAB & HTRAAB (22 tracks). How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb (Re-Assemble Edition) – featuring both How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb + How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb - will be available as a dual digital release on 22 ^nd November.

How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb will be exclusively available in physical format for Record Store Day Black Fridat as a Limited Edition Black & Red Marble 1LP Vinyl; and as a standalone 10 track digital release. Out 29 ^th November.

Click here – or visit U2.com - for a detailed list of formats and tracklistings.

Record Store Day Unsigned Competition with Breed Media Returns!

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 08:20:18 GMT

The nationwide competition returns bigger and better than ever with support from: Nina Nesbitt, Abbey Road Studios, Bowers & Wilkins, Truck Festival and Charmfactory

Record Store Day and Breed Media are thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated RSD Unsigned competition, offering one exceptional UK artist the chance to have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records. This year, the competition is bigger and better than ever before, providing emerging artists with unparalleled opportunities to showcase their talent and take their careers to the next level.

To enter, artists must upload their original music to YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram using the hashtag #RSDUnsigned, and then submit the link via the Breed Media submission page here . All genres and styles are welcome.

The competition will be judged by a panel of industry experts, including

Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production Group and Breed Media
Nina Nesbitt, acclaimed singer-songwriter
Gary Smith, Truck Record Store
Julie Weir, Sony Music

Their expertise and passion for music will guide the selection of this year’s winners, ensuring that the most promising talent gets the spotlight it deserves.

Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production Group, said of the competition's return: “RSD Unsigned is an unmissable opportunity that can open so many doors." Graham Worsfold, Head of Breed Media, which is providing the 500 vinyl records, added: "We're incredibly proud to support unsigned talent with this prize, which can be the stepping stone for the winner and their music to be picked up nationwide."

In addition to having their music pressed on vinyl, this year’s winner will also enjoy an exclusive mastering session at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, courtesy of Bowers & Wilkins.

But that’s not all—newly added this year is the opportunity to perform at the renowned independent music festival ‘Truck Festival’ in Oxford. Truck Festival is dubbed the “UK’s most warped village fête” and is a four-day celebration of the best new and established artists, filled with wacky entertainment and a unique community spirit.

Gary Smith, owner of the Truck Record Store who is participating as a judge, said: “At Truck, we believe that new artists are the lifeblood of the music industry. The RSD Unsigned competition is an exciting opportunity for anyone yet to sign a record deal and we are delighted to be involved.”

Finally, the winning artist will also benefit from an 8-week Talent Development Programme, provided by Charmfactory, designed to help them refine their craft and navigate the music industry. Jeremy Scott, Managing Director, said: “At Charmfactory, we love music and we’re passionate about supporting emerging artists to gain the knowledge, skills, and tools to achieve their goals. We’re also big fans of Record Store Day, so to contribute to the RSD Unsigned campaign for 2024 is a perfect partnership.”

Acclaimed singer-songwriter and RSD Unsigned judge Nina Nesbitt said: “There is so much undiscovered talent out there in the UK just waiting to be heard. This wonderful competition could be a pivotal moment in an artist’s career, so I say don’t hesitate on entering! I can’t wait to listen to what comes through.”

The RSD Unsigned competition has supported four previous winners, including: Currls, Amy Fitz Doyley, Sister Cookie, Heavy Rapids, and Barbudo. They have accrued success with mainstream radio play, UK-wide tours, and festival appearances.

Submissions are open now and will close on 9th November. Don’t miss your chance— submit your music today and see if you could be this year’s RSD Unsigned winner!

RECORD STORE DAY RAISES OVER £120k FOR WAR CHILD

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 23:15:00 GMT

THE TOTAL RAISED WILL SUPPORT CHILDREN WHOSE LIVES HAVE BEEN TORN APART BY WAR

Record Store Day UK were delighted to once again partner with War Child in 2024, raising an incredible £42k for children affected by conflict. This brings the total money raised to an incredible £120k across the five years of partnership.

This has been achieved with the amazing support of indie record stores and record labels coming together under the Record Store Day umbrella to support the children whose lives have tragically been torn apart by war – a cause which is arguably more important than ever before.

Across the RSD campaign, a series of special releases have been created from the likes of The Cure, the 1975, Celeste, Patti Smith, Blur and many, many more, with £1 from every unit sold being donated to War Child.

On top of this, each year Rega Research generously donate Planar 3 turntables which are signed by artists and raffled from War Child’s crowdfunding site. This year, turntables were signed by Kate Bush, Blur and Young Fathers, with Robert Plant, Foals and Kae Tempest among those who have taken part in previous years, raising tens of thousands of pounds.

Finally, in 2024 RSD also teamed up with another official partner Studio by Miraval to deliver a pop-up record store. Fans could enjoy a glass of Studio by Miraval Rose and get a mystery vinyl for just £5. All proceeds were donated to War Child and CALM.

All proceeds raised will help War Child to protect, educate and stand up for the rights of children affected by conflict all over the world.

Head of War Child Records Richard Clarke said: “We are so proud of our partnership with Record Store Day, we feel very much part of the fabric of a fantastic celebration of the record shop. The team put so much love, care and attention to embed War Child in RSD and raise as much as possible for children whose lives have been torn apart by war. It’s been such a pleasure to work together for the last five years and see the partnership grow and grow. To have exceeded £120k raised for some of the most vulnerable children and families affected by conflict is a really incredible and special thing.”

Megan Page, Head of PR, Marketing & Promotions at ERA and Coordinator of Record Store Day UK, said, “It is a real honour to be able to partner with War Child and raise money for such an important cause at such a significant time. The values and ethos that underpin War Child have made this one of the most rewarding and fulfilling partnerships we could have ever dreamed of working on and to be able to make difference under the RSD umbrella is huge privilege. We look forward to continuing the campaign activity in the years to come!”

RECORD STORE DAY X TAYLOR SWIFT – UK VINYL SALES HAVE THEIR BEST WEEK IN 30 YEARS

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 23:15:00 GMT

The combination of April 20th’s Record Store Day and the release of Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department meant vinyl sales last week enjoyed their highest weekly total in 30 years, according to analysis by digital entertainment and retail association ERA.

Data from the Official Charts Company show 269,134 vinyl albums and 37,656 vinyl singles were sold in chart week 17, making a total of 306,791. This is higher than in any week since week five 1994 when current statistics began.

Sales of vinyl copies of The Tortured Poets Department- many of them sold through independent record stores - accounted for just under a quarter (24.7%) of the week’s vinyl album sales.

Meanwhile sales of vinyl albums exclusive to independent record shops as part of Record Store Day accounted for an estimated 37.2% of the vinyl albums market.

Last week’s success for vinyl indicates that the format’s revival shows no sign of waning after 2023 marked its 16 ^th consecutive year of growth. Four of the Top 10 biggest weeks for vinyl in the past 30 years have come in the past 12 months.

Kim Bayley, CEO of ERA, said it is no coincidence that vinyl should reach another high point in the week of Record Store Day, “Indie record shops were first to realise that the growth of streaming would paradoxically provide an opportunity for the most physical of physical formats,” she said, “and vinyl has sat at the heart of Record Store Day’s celebration of indie record shop culture since 2008.“

She said it was particularly appropriate that it was the combination of RSD and Taylor Swift which helped deliver the week 17.

“Taylor Swift has long been a supporter of indie record stores and served as Record Store Day’s global ambassador in 2022,” she said. “Her support has undoubtedly helped drive even more younger fans to indie record shops, helping sustain the stores which are one of the most vibrant elements of the music ecosystem.”

Highlighting the synergies between Ms Swift, vinyl and indie record shops, Taylor Swift titles led by The Tortured Poets Department account for the three top performing vinyl albums week of release since 1994.

TOP PERFORMING VINYL ALBUMS WEEK-OF-RELEASE SINCE 1994

Source: ERA/The Official Charts Company

Earlier this year ERA revealed that the number of independent record stores in the UK had reached a 10 year high of 461.

RECORD STORE DAY SET TO DELIVER £10M BOOST TO INDIE RECORD SHOPS

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 23:15:00 GMT

Record Store Day, the annual celebration of indie record store culture taking place this Saturday (April 20), is expected to deliver a £9.7m boost to indie record shops, helping secure the future of one of the key pillars of grassroots music culture.

The £9.7m figure is an estimate of the sales value of the 443 exclusive releases which will be made available through indie stores on Record Store Day. This year these range from Ringo Starr’s “Crooked Boy” EP which includes four brand-new tracks, to an Olivia Rodrigo & Noah Kahan split 7” of “Stick Season” and “Lacy” from the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge to a stunning reissue of Young Father’s Mercury Award winning debut album “Dead”, limited to just 2000 copies.

The analysis, prepared by digital entertainment and retail association ERA which organises Record Store UK on behalf of 270 indie retailers, does not include incremental revenue of non-Record Store Day music titles made on the day, nor money generated by food, drink and other items. The actual total through store tills is likely to be higher.

In 2023 ERA estimates that exclusives sold on Record Store Day accounted for nearly 10% of annual sales of all physical music product through High Street stores. Last month ERA announced that indie store numbers have hit a 10 year high in part propelled by Record Store Day.

ERA CEO Kim Bayley said, “Record Store Day is a cultural phenomenon which draws in tens of thousands of music fans across the country, but it is also a financial lifeline for a vital element of music’s unique ecosystem. Without Record Store Day, many would find it difficult to stay in business. We are grateful to the artists and labels who work so hard to create exclusive Record Store Day product and of course to the fans who turn out to support their local stores in such numbers.”

Record Store Day UK coordinator Megan Page said, “Saturday is going to be quite a day. Indie stores can be incredibly proud of what they have achieved. There will be live music, DJ sets, parties and performances in every corner of the country to celebrate. The important thing is people don’t forget that indie record stores are also great places to go to when it’s not Record Store Day.”

This year’s Record Store Day UK ambassador, Kate Bush, said “Each year Record Store Day gathers more attention, more momentum, and attracts more people who cram into indie record stores all over the world to see what’s up. What’s new? This year, I hope you have a fantastic time at this very important event, and that you get to celebrate music that’s been specially released for you”.

You can read her full statement here .

RECORD STORE DAY UK ANNOUNCES FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES FOR OFFICIAL CHARITY PARTNER WAR CHILD

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 23:15:00 GMT

Record Store Day UK are excited to announce this year’s fundraising activities to support its Official 2024 Charity Partner, War Child. The money raised will go towards helping children in conflict all over the world, which is more important than ever before.

SIGNED TURNTABLES

One lucky vinyl fan could be in with the chance of winning a one-off Rega Planar 3 deck signed by RSD ambassador Kate Bush (including an exclusive test pressing of her upcoming Record Store Day 2024 release ' Eat The Music ')! What's more, a further two fans could win decks signed by Blur and 2023 Mercury Prize nominees Young Fathers.

Entry is simple! Raffle tickets can be purchased from 11th April on War Child’s Crowdfunder pages for Kate Bush , Blur and Young Fathers .

Each entry costs just £5, and to top it off, there's no limit on the number of times a fan can enter. Winners of each deck will be announced on Sunday 5th May 2023, perfectly timed for you to spin those Record Store Day 2024 releases!

In addition, Record Store Day is delighted to announce that £1 from each sale of 13 titles available on Record Store Day will be donated to War Child.

These include:

Blur - Parklife

30th Anniversary Zoetrope picture disc

David Sylvian & Nine Horses - Snow Borne Sorrow - Expanded

Available for the first time on vinyl housed in a beautiful gatefold sleeve with printed inner bags.

Electrafixion – Burned

Deleted long ago, this will be re-issued on black and white vinyl.

Emma Bunton - A Girl Like Me

Pressed on limited edition baby pink vinyl.

Gorillaz - Cracker Island (Deluxe)

The one-off release features 6 additional tracks that have not been available on physical format before as well as exclusive new album artwork by Jamie Hewlett. 1 x pink disc, 1 x magenta disc

Jessie Ware - Tough Love

10th Anniversary - lovingly curated 2LP set of the original album plus bonus tracks all pressed on solid white 140-gram vinyl.

Keane - Live at Paradiso

The wide-spine single sleeve contains a transparent red LP, and solid white LP housed within printed inners, as well as liner notes by the band recalling the atmosphere of the Amsterdam concert.

Mike Oldfield - Hergest Ridge 1974 Demo Recordings

Making its debut on vinyl, mastered by Miles Showell at Abbey Road. With new artwork overseen by Mike Oldfield

Morcheeba - B Sides & Beats

1LP green vinyl

Scott Walker - Tilt

2LP coloured disc

Soft Cell - Non-Stop Extended

Featuring contemporary full-length versions of the tracks, many of which have never been released on vinyl before.

The 1975 - The 1975 Live at Gorilla

Released on vinyl for the first time, pressed on white vinyl with brand new artwork.

The Cure – The Top

40th Anniversary - Picture Disc

Much like all the amazing titles on this year’s Record Store Day list of releases , the Record Store Day War Child exclusives will only be available in-store at one of over 260 participating independent record shops on 20th of April.

Planning where you're gonna be on the day? Find your local store here !

WIN a customised magnum of 'Studio' by Miraval!

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 08:34:44 GMT

CALLING ALL WINE AND INDIE RECORD SHOP LOVERS!

You could win a magnum of ‘Studio’ by Miraval – customised with your fav indie record shop’s logo

Miraval are our official wine partners of Record Store Day 2024 and have kindly offered this unique prize - which is far too amazing to miss!

Sounds great, right?! Here's how you enter:

Drop a comment on our latest post explaining why you love your local indie record shop (don’t forget to tag them!)
Follow Record Store Day UK and Miraval
Enter before Tuesday 23rd April

That’s it – easy!

The winning shop will be revealed on Tuesday 23rd April and the winning entry will be contacted via direct message.

Please note: all entrants must be UK based and +18 to enter. This is our official account - please be wary of any fake profiles.

A full list of our competition terms & conditions are available here:

Good luck!! ��✨

CALLING ALL VINYL RECORD AND WINE LOVERS!

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:15:00 GMT

Studio by Miraval and Record Store Day are thrilled to invite you to a one-day pop-up event, "Miraval’s Mystery Vinyl – Music for your Tastebuds”!

For just £5, you could take home a brand-new vinyl record, ranging from limited editions to rare collectibles, all while enjoying a refreshing glass of Studio by Miraval Rosé.

But...there's a twist!

Each record is sitting snugly in a special Studio by Miraval outer sleeve, so you won't know what you're getting! This lucky dip will broaden your music taste like never-before, matching you with a new album to spin on your decks.

Plus, a special ‘Golden Disc’ prize will allow one lucky dipper to walk away with the special Studio by Miraval limited edition Le Magnum Studio by Miraval Bluetooth Speaker .

How could you say no?! Come and celebrate the joy of vinyl, wine and discovery!

Find us at:

The Truman Brewery - 11 Dray Walk, Shadwell, London, E1 6QL

April 17th, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Save the date! You don't wanna miss this ��

RECORD STORE DAY UNSIGNED COMPETITION WINNER CURRLS ANNOUNCES FIRST VINYL EP RELEASE

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 00:15:00 GMT

“LET’S TALK ABOUT THE WEATHER” WILL BE RELEASED ON FRIDAY 12TH APRIL ON NEON PINK BIO-VINYL IN RECORD STORES

This just in! Currls, the winner of Record Store Day’s nationwide Unsigned competition sponsored by Breed Media have announced details of their debut physical release “Let’s Talk About the Weather”. The EP will be released a week before Record Store Day, on Friday 12th April, and will be available from select indie record shops .

In 2023, Currls took home the Record Store Day Unsigned accolade, which allows one talented Unsigned UK artist to have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records, courtesy of RSD sponsor and physical product manufacturer Breed Media, and stocked on the shelves of record stores around the UK.

The competition was judged by a panel of industry experts including Dan Smith (Bastille), Karen Emanuel (Key Production Group/Breed Media), Nadia Khan (Woman in Ctrl), Martin Black (Spinning Discs store) and Eva Davies (Come Play with Me) who all deemed Currls to be of exceptional talent and deserving of this special prize.

On top of that, this year the winning artists experienced an exclusive mastering session at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, courtesy of Record Store Day's official audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins.

The indie garage rock trio hailing from Brighton have steadily been making a name for themselves over the past few years. Their compelling mix of raw garage rock, hard-hitting and fast-paced punk energy has landed them plays on BBC Radio 1 and BBC6Music!

Upon winning the competition, lead vocalist and guitarist Holly Deanna said:

Fittingly, the band performed at Rough Trade East for the launch of Record Store Day 2024 and is set to perform at The British Music Embassy Showcase at SXSW (South By South West) Festival. A show not to be missed!

Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production Group (parent company of Breed Media), said: “We’re so thrilled to have supported Currls’ first-ever vinyl release through this brilliant competition. The EP sounds fantastic and with it pressed on a stunning neon pink bio-vinyl, it looks just as good too. We can’t wait for people to get their hands on it!”

'#RSDUnsigned’ is a nationwide contest run by Record Store Day and Breed Media - a music manufacturing and vinyl pressing platform which specialises in supporting emerging artists. The competition was set up to allow talented unsigned and DIY artists to win their music pressed onto vinyl. Previous winners have included Amy Fitz Doyley, Sister Cookie and Heavy Rapids – all of whom have gone on to enjoy success on the festival circuit and plays on national radio.

‘Let’s Talk About the Weather’ Tracklist - EP exclusive:

1. Cruel

2. Weather

3. Throwback

4. Blame

5. Bad Habits

6. Still Here

Kate Bush is this year's official Record Store Day UK Ambassador!

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:00:15 GMT

“EAT THE MUSIC - THE RSD EDITION” TO BE RELEASED EXCLUSIVELY FOR RECORD STORE DAY ON SATURDAY 20TH APRIL

Record Store Day UK is honoured to announce Kate Bush as this year’s official ambassador.

As part of her role, Kate will champion the special and unique culture of record shops all over the UK and celebrate the art of vinyl.

Kate will also release a special 10” Record Store Day edition of “Eat the Music” exclusively in independent record shops on Saturday 20th April.

The single was originally scheduled to be the first release from her 1993 album “Red Shoes”, but was cancelled in favour of “Rubberband Girl”. The RSD edition is now set to be a hugely collectible release for Kate Bush fans.

Kate has recreated her own unique version, a beautiful UV printed 10” with her preferred track list of: Eat the Music, Lily and Big Stripey Lie.

As Record Store Day ambassador, Kate Bush joins an illustrious list of artists including Taylor Swift, Elton John, Noel Gallagher and the 1975.

Kate said today:

“What a huge honour to have been asked to be Ambassador for this year’s Record Store Day. It really is a great privilege. Isn’t it great to see how the resurgence in vinyl has taken the music industry by complete surprise? It had decided to leave vinyl far behind, but it would seem that not everyone agrees! I love that!

I know there are many, many artists who are just as excited to see the audience turning the tide. In the same way that some people like to read a book on Kindle but also want to have a book as a physical object, a lot of people like vinyl and streaming. Both have different appeals.

The added bonus of vinyl is that it encourages people to listen to albums. An art form that I’ve always thought can be treasured in a unique way. An album on vinyl is a beautiful thing, given a strong identity by its large-scale artwork. There’s a much more personal connection with the artist and their work.

It’s been fun putting designs together for some of the previous RSDs. This year’s design echoes the cancelled release of Eat the Music as the first single from the album, The Red Shoes. The image was intended to be on the cover of the single bag and is now on the disc as a UV print.

The title, Eat the Music, is meant to be a playful nod to 'If music be the food of love, play on,' from Shakespeare's Twelfth Night.

Each year Record Store Day gathers more attention, more momentum, and attracts more people who cram into indie record stores all over the world to see what’s up. What’s new?

This year, I hope you have a fantastic time at this very important event, and that you get to celebrate music that’s been specially released for you.

Very best wishes,

Kate”

Find your local participating independant record shop .

Win a magnum of ‘Studio’ by Miraval!

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 13:52:44 GMT

In January we announced that Miraval are the Official Wine Partners of Record Store Day 2024.

And who said the celebrations ended there? Now we’re hosting a giveaway!

You could win a magnum of 'Studio' by Miraval by entering our social media competition

Head to our official posts on Instagram and Facebook for the full details on how to take part. All entrants must be 18+ and reside in the United Kingdom. A full list of our terms and conditions can be found here .

The competition closes on Friday 8th March...what are you waiting for?!

Good luck! ��✨

OLIVIA RODRIGO “STICK SEASON”/NOAH KAHAN “LACY” - FROM THE BBC RADIO 1 LIVE LOUNGE FOR RECORD STORE DAY

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 17:00:01 GMT

OLIVIA RODRIGO “STICK SEASON”/NOAH KAHAN “LACY” - FROM THE BBC RADIO 1 LIVE LOUNGE SCHEDULED FOR RECORD STORE DAY

Multi-Platinum singer-songwriters Olivia Rodrigo and Noah Kahan team up on a special live recording that will be available at participating independent record stores as part of the celebration of Record Store Day. Olivia Rodrigo “Stick Season”/Noah Kahan “Lacy” - FROM THE BBC RADIO 1 LIVE LOUNGE will be released on April 20 via Geffen/Mercury/Republic.

ABOUT OLIVIA RODRIGO:

Hailed by The New York Times as “a songwriter of rather astonishing purity,” Olivia Rodrigo took up piano at age seven and began crafting her own lyrics at 12. On her record-breaking, culture-defining debut album SOUR , she offered up a wildly resonant account of her very first heartbreak. Featuring her 5x Platinum breakthrough single “drivers license,” SOUR made history as the longest-running debut album on the Billboard 200 top 10 this century, landed at No. 1 on Rolling Stone’s 50 Best Albums of 2021 list, and earned Rodrigo three GRAMMY® awards.

At 20, she released her highly anticipated second album GUTS – a body of work that magnified the raw power of her genre-bending sound while delving deeper into her vast and vivid inner world. Recorded with SOUR producer Daniel Nigro, GUTS was praised as an “instant classic” by Rolling Stone and a “masterpiece” by the Los Angeles Times. Lead single “vampire” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and returned to the top spot in September 2023 – coinciding with the No. 1 debut of GUTS on the Billboard 200 and Olivia on the Artist 100, thereby giving Rodrigo a chart triple. The album’s 11 other tracks all appeared in the top 40 of the Hot 100, making Rodrigo the first artist to chart all songs from two career-opening albums in the Hot 100’s top 40. GUTS topped the album charts in over 13 countries.

In late 2023, Olivia released “Can’t Catch Me Now” from The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (Music From & Inspired By) which won 2023 Hollywood Music In Media Award for SciFi/Fantasy Film and a SCL Award for “Outstanding Original Song For A Dramatic Or Documentary Visual Media Production.”

On Friday night, Rodrigo kicks off the North American leg of her sold-out GUTS tour in Palm Springs, CA at the Acrisure Arena. The tour continues Saturday night in Phoenix, AZ at Footprint Arena before making its way across North America, Europe, and UK, with stops in Miami, Toronto, New York, London, Manchester, Glasgow and more before wrapping in August with four massive shows in Los Angles at the Kia Forum. The Breeders, PinkPantheress, Chappell Roan, and Remi Wolf will join on select dates across the tour. See tour dates HERE .

ABOUT NOAH KAHAN:

Over the past year, GRAMMY®-nominated Vermont singer & songwriter Noah Kahan has exploded from his New England roots into the global mainstream and has been touted as one of this year’s biggest and best new artists. At the core of his music are vulnerable lyrics and an unfiltered yet relatable honesty, as the critically acclaimed artist pens songs straight from the heart and cracks jokes with his signature, self-deprecating sense of humor.

Across his three albums and an EP, Kahan has garnered global renown for his singular mix of Folk, Americana, and Rock, landing more than five billion streams, a Double Platinum Certification for his hit single “Stick Season,” and collaborations with Post Malone, Kacey Musgraves, Brandi Carlile, Hozier, Gregory Alan Isakov, Gracie Abrams, Sam Fender, Lizzy McAlpine, Zach Bryan, Joy Oladokun, and more. His widely adored, Platinum-Certified album,  Stick Season , is inspired by his New England roots and earliest musical inspirations—from Paul Simon to Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens)—conveying a vivid representation of what he loves, fears, and struggles with most passionately.

Noah embarked on his sold-out “Stick Season Tour” across North America since the album’s release last year, selling over half-a-million tickets and performing in the biggest venues of his career, with stadium and arena dates already sold-out for his 2024 “We’ll All Be Here Forever” world tour. In June 2023, he released an extended version of  Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever) , which surpassed sales of the original and features his single “Dial Drunk.” In February 2024, Noah dropped the final release of the  Stick Season  series— Stick Season (Forever) ,   a   30-track collection that includes his new highly anticipated single “Forever” and collaborations with Brandi Carlile and Gregory Alan Isakov—further solidifying himself as one of the most successful breakout artists of the year.

THE RECORD STORE DAY LIST HAS DROPPED!

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:19:05 GMT

THIS IS NOT A DRILL!

Record Store Day UK is proud to announce this year’s list of exclusive and special releases coming on Saturday 20th April!

Get ready for collectible and limited-edition records from the likes of Jessie Ware, Noah Kahan, Gabriels, Katy J Pearson, Blur, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and many more!

Hundreds of artists have come together to celebrate the UK’s independent record shops which are at the heart of local communities up and down the country. Artists, labels, and stores on every continent in the world* have signed up for the 17th edition of the annual event which champions the unique culture of independent record shops and the art of vinyl.  

*Except in Antarctica...nobody needs to queue up outside a store in there on a cold April morning!

With special records spanning rock, pop, jazz, hip-hop, reggae, classical, folk - and even a release from ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ – there will be something on offer for music fans of all ages and tastes at their local record store in April. 

And that's not all! Record Store Day is delighted to welcome exciting talent such as Laufey, Holly Humberstone, Fizz, English Teacher, Maisie Peters and BRIT nominees - Noah Kahan, Young Fathers and Olivia Dean to this year’s list.

Established fan favourites such as The Rolling Stones, Tom Grennan, Notorious B.I.G, Garbage and Lily Allen will also be releasing special vinyl editions to throw their support behind the hard-working music lovers running records stores all over the UK.

This year, an extra special treat from The Flirtations, as they release their first album of new material in 55 years! Speaking on this exciting release, The Flirtations said they “are overwhelmingly excited to be releasing on Record Store Day 2024” and to be “featured on the shelves with so many other talented people.”

As always, a gentle reminder that all stock on this year’s release list will be sold on a first-come-first-serve basis in participating shops only. With so many stores taking part, we recommend checking out where your nearest so you can join in the fun! You can  click here to find out. 

For more information on how to get involved this year, head to our FAQs page .

Keep your eyes on our website and socials for the latest updates!

Behind the Counter returns for a fifth series ahead of Record Store Day 2024

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 00:15:00 GMT

Behind The Counter is back, returning for a milestone fifth season on 30th January!

In case you’re new to the series, Behind The Counter is an annual 12-part video series, celebrating the unique culture, heritage, and individuality of independent record stores across the UK.

Watch the trailer now:

The series has enjoyed more than 2.5m views over the years, and is an ongoing collaboration between Record Store Day, Classic Album Sundays and Bowers & Wilkins.

The aim of the series is to take viewers on a tour of the UK’s best-loved independent record shops, showcasing the passion and dedication of owners who are central to their local music scenes. Many independent record stores are the beating heart of their community, creating safe and personal spaces for music lovers to connect and also discover their next favourite artist.

The series will take you all over the UK, from Edinburgh to Essex, Liverpool to Somerset and everywhere in between! Episodes will be released every Tuesday at 10am on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube in the run up to Record Store Day, 2024 – so mark your calendars!

In recent years, indie record shops have seen a resurgence as the vinyl revival continues. Many new stores have opened in recent years, with vinyl sales now at a 15-year high. ERA, the digital entertainment & retail association, reported 2023’s year-end market figures, which saw vinyl album sales reach £177m, up 17.8% year on year. CD sales also rose for the first time in two decades, reaching £126m.

This good news continues for record stores, with music sales overall increasing by 9.6% in 2023 to £2.2bn, marking 11 successive years of growth for the industry.

Tony Gaughan from Blitzkrieg records said: “One of the best things about being the owner of Blitzkrieg shop, is that every day is like Christmas. You come in, there’s a delivery and you can’t wait to open that box and see what’s inside. The music coming out of the box always excites me”.

Behind the Counter has visited a whole new range of shops for series five, giving you a taste of the classic indie record shop vibe and their instrumental role bringing music directly to fans.

From heavy metal culture at Merseyside’s Dark Earth, to Anja Petitto’s non-judgmental space for female customers at Tough Love in Hastings, the series continues to uncover that “personal touch” (Jon Clifford, Dreamhouse Records) behind every door of the UK’s much-loved stores!

Revered British audio brand Bowers & Wilkins continues its support for the series as the official partner by celebrating the impact high quality sound can have on the experience that vinyl offers.

This year, the stories from Behind the Counter will feature 12 indie record shops, including:

Blitzkrieg shop, Glasgow

Dark Earth, Merseyside

Defend Vinyl, Liverpool

Dreamhouse Records, London

Hey Joe, Essex

JM Records, Exeter

Raves From The Grave, Somerset

Smugglers Records, Deal

Tangled Parrot, Carmarthen

Thorne Records, Edinburgh

Tough Love, Hastings

Vinyl Van, Dorchester

Record Store Day returns on Saturday 20th April 2024!

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 15:29:26 GMT

Save the date! Record Store Day will take place on Saturday   20th April, 2024.

More than 250 independent record shops from all over the UK are expected to take part, with thousands more celebrating across the globe in what’s become one of the biggest events in the music calendar.

Record shop parties, live performances, DJ sets and more are expected on the day. Not to mention the exciting range of exclusive and limited-edition release to be announced later this year.

2024 marks the 17th annual celebration of Record Store Day as it shines a light on the unique culture of record shopping, the art of vinyl and the incredible music-loving people behind the counter that serve music to their local communities.

Introducing Studio by Miraval

Currls Crowned Winners of Record Store Day Unsigned, 2023!

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:18:09 GMT

The results are in! We are so excited to announce that the official winner of Record Store Day Unsigned 2023 is Currls

The Brighton-based trio, known for their hard-hitting and fast-paced punk energy, will soon have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records and enjoy an exclusive mastering session at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, courtesy of Bowers & Wilkins.

Following their win, we had a few questions to ask the band...

1. Out of 500 entrants, you have been crowned the winner of this year’s RSD Unsigned competition. How does that feel?

"It feels surreal. It’s a real proud moment for us. We’ve put so much hard work into this project over the years and to get recognition in this way is truly incredible. It can feel impossible sometimes as a diy to raise funding for things such as vinyl, so this gives us a massive opportunity to give something really special to our listeners and is definitely something we’ll never forget." - Holly

"It feels so surreal, we really weren't expecting it! It's so exciting to be given this opportunity as we've been wishing to get CURRLS on vinyl for so long!" - Hannah

"It feels good to be picked amongst an array of talented entries and is a cherry on top of a year that’s felt like we’ve made a lot of progress." - Jack

2. Why did you decide to enter the competition? Is having your music on vinyl something that’s important to you?

"I think as an independent artist, when you see an opportunity like this you have to jump at it. I’ve always dreamt of one day having my own songs pressed to vinyl so this really is a dream come true, there’s just something quite special about vinyl and that will never go away." - Holly

"We decided to enter the competition as we were looking for support in getting vinyl manufactured in order for our music to be heard and promoted across the music industry. We feel having our music on vinyl will allow our fans to listen to our songs in an alternative way which will elevate their enjoyment and may even provide some nostalgia from the days when vinyl first became popular." - Hannah

"I think vinyl has a quality to it that is just more potent in the music listening experience it brings back memories of looking at the back of albums and lyrics finding out who played on it, and it feels surreal to be part of this great format and it’s an honour." - Jack

3. How do you think winning this prize could impact your music career?

"This could change our career dramatically. We’re now going to be able to present to our audience something truly special. We’re all so in awe of Abbey Road Studios too, our little minds are blown that we get the chance to have our tracks mastered there. Winning this contest helps us continue to spread our message of inclusivity, diversity and individuality." - Holly

" I believe winning this prize will allow us to distribute our music further to people who have the desire to listen to music on record. It’s a disconnect from the reality of today’s music industry of streaming platforms and emphasis on streaming numbers." - Hannah

"It’ll make it a lot more accessible I think to people who cherish music, and like the tangible qualities of it." - Jack

4. Are you a record collector yourself? Do you have a favourite indie record shop?

"I am an absolute sucker for vinyl. Usually I’m a big charity shop lover, always enjoyed crate digging and trying to find hidden gems. There’s a record shop in Amsterdam that never left my head called Concerto, I would love to play in there one day. I’m a big fan of Sister Ray in Soho too, always great deals in there. Rough trade is a no brainer and in Brighton, I’d have to say my favourite is Rarekind Records and Cult Hero." - Holly

"Unfortunately I do not have a record player of my own however I think it’s brilliant how vinyl has massively come back into movement. In Brighton we have Resident record shop in the North Laines which is a fav! They host in store events for artists to perform intimate shows which is so cool!" - Hannah

"Unfortunately I don’t have a record player any more but as soon as I can I will get one, I’ve been dying to listen to my vinyl records again!" - Jack

5. Who are your musical inspirations? Is there an artist in particular that has shaped your artistry?

"Over the years, I have made a giant love child of all my favourite artists in my mind, trying to fuse them all together, there’s just so many I could go on and on. One artist that truly shifted something for me was T.Rex, I remember discovering Marc Bolan when I used to watch tops of the pops with my grandma and I was just so in awe. I just found his music so unique and he seemed so individual, it just inspired me to want to be like that too." - Holly

"I take inspiration from lots of different artists in varying genres including Nothing But Thieves, The Vaccines, Tame Impala, Paramore and Wolf Alice, to name a few. I grew up with a lot of punk rock influence from my dad, listening to artists such as The Clash and The Jam. I think all of these artists collectively shape my artistry when it comes to creating new drum parts. " - Hannah

"Easily for me it’s Elliott Smith, his chord progressions continue to inspire me to not go down conventional roads and find the beauty in letting a melody stand on its own!" - Jack

Record Store Day and Breed Media are thrilled to have had yet another successful year of the #RSDUnsigned competition, which gives talented unsigned and DIY artists the opportunity to win their music pressed onto vinyl.

This year’s #RSDUnsigned competition was our biggest yet, with a record numbers of hugely talented applicants from all over the UK. A huge thank you to all of you who entered. We have seriously loved all your submissions and hearing the amazing array of unsigned talent out there!

Currls were crowned as 2023’s winners by a team of music industry experts, including:

Dan Smith – Lead Singer, Bastille
Karen Emanuel – CEO, Key Production
Nadia Khan – Founder, Woman in Ctrl
Martin Black – Record Store Owner, Spinning Discs
Eva Davies – Artist and Label Manager, Come Play with Me

To stay up to date with Currls, and their special vinyl release, give them a follow and support them on Spotify .

Be sure to follow Record Store Day and Breed Media on socials for more info on their special vinyl release due to come soon!

RSD Celebrates Black History Month 2023

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 14:14:29 GMT

October is UK Black History Month and this year’s theme is, ‘Saluting our Sisters.’

For Black History Month we are celebrating the incredible artistry and pioneering work of black women in the music industry. We asked independant record shops to share with us the artists and their albums that have shaped their love of music.

Leo - Sister Ray, Soho

Laurence - Soul Brother Records, London

Christopher - The Vault Collective, Ebbw Vale

Louis and Jacky - Resident, Brighton

Jon - Resident, Brighton

Dan - Resident, Brighton

Ewan - Resident, Brighton

Archie - Resident, Brighton

Natasha - Resident, Brighton

Little Simz, photographed by Mike Burnell

Record Store Day Black Friday releases revealed

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 18:02:30 GMT

Exclusives from The Doors, Sia, Alesha Dixon, Post Malone & more!

Record Store Day’s sister event, Black Friday, is set to return on Friday 24th November with a super special list of exclusive vinyl releases from the likes of The Doors, Alesha Dixon, Sia, Post Malone and many more!

Over ninety artists have come together to create limited edition vinyl records that will only be available from independent record stores up and down the UK – a full list of which can be found here .

Organisers of Record Store Day have worked to shift the culture of “Black Friday” by moving away from the mass-produced, low priced nature of the day to creating an array of unique and special vinyl records that will bring value and joy to collectors all over the world.

The full list of special titles with more details can be found here .

The Record Club launches on Spotify and TikTok

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 11:42:40 GMT

Record Store Day, National Album Day and Official Charts’ live stream series will be available to watch in full on Spotify from 20 ^th September

The Record Club in association with Bowers & Wilkins today unveils a brand-new look as the music series supporting new album releases and record stores launches on Spotify.

Episodes will now be available to watch the day after broadcast on The Record Club’s official Spotify page . To celebrate, a Spotify exclusive episode with singer/songwriter Birdy will be available to watch here where she discusses her highly anticipated fifth studio album Portraits, and the cathartic process of writing the record.

Followers can also now watch clips of previous episodes and catch announcements of upcoming guests through The Record Club’s newly launched TikTok page .

Each episode features a fan Q&A with the week's guest, with one special question provided by an indie record shop. The Record Club is proud to bring artists and fans together, encouraging viewers to support their local record shop.

The series has had over one million organic views, while welcoming over 70 artist guests including Blondie, Jessie Ware, Olly Murs, James Bay, Sigrid, James Blunt, Maisie Peters, Rudimental, Phoebe Bridgers, KSI, McFly, Paloma Faith and Wolf Alice to discuss their latest records.

Host Jess Iszatt said:

"It's amazing that The Record Club has been going for over three years, and I'm really excited for this next chapter on Spotify! I've had so much fun celebrating albums with fans and artists every episode and it's great that we're able to do it with the support of Bowers & Wilkins."

Giles Pocock, Vice-President of Brand Marketing, Bowers & Wilkins commented:

“Helping artists to tell the story behind their music is incredibly important to Bowers & Wilkins and The Record Club has established itself as such a valuable platform for enabling artists to connect with fans in a truly authentic and engaging way.

The Record Club series continues with Yussef Dayes on Wednesday 27 September at 17:30 BST across The Record Club’s social media platforms.

Watch the new trailer for The Record Club with Bowers & Wilkins

Record Shops share their top picks for this year’s Mercury Music Prize

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:24:38 GMT

To celebrate the upcoming annual Mercury Music Prize on Sept 7th, 2023, we asked indie record shops to share who they think should be crowned ‘Album of the Year’ for 2023 and why.

101 Collectors Records, Surrey

Assai Records, Dundee

Assai Records, Edinburgh

Assai Records, Glasgow

Badlands Records, Gloucestershire

Crash Records, Leeds

JM Records, Exeter

Hey Joe Music & Coffee, Essex

Phoenix Sound, Devon

Resident, Brighton

Thorne Records, Edinburgh

Truck, Oxford

Record Store Day Unsigned Returns for 2023!

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 08:34:13 GMT

Launching on August 15th August 2023, RSD Unsigned will invite emerging musicians to showcase their music by submitting a 2-minute sample of their original work to TikTok or YouTube using the #RSDUnsigned hashtag.

Music enthusiasts and aspiring artists, get ready to make some noise!

Record Store Day is delighted to announce the highly anticipated return of the RSD Unsigned competition, now in partnership with Breed Media, a KEY Production Group company. The nationwide contest is a unique opportunity for one exceptionally talented unsigned artist to have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records pressed using ‘Bio-Vinyl’ (this uses a new more sustainable but acoustically identical vinyl compound). On top of that, the winner will be invited to a mastering session at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, supported by RSD official partner Bowers and Wilkins, whose flagship 800 Series loudspeakers have been used as reference monitors in countless iconic recordings at the studios over the past 40 years.

Launching on August 15 ^th August 2023, RSD Unsigned will invite emerging musicians to showcase their music by submitting a 2-minute sample of their original work to TikTok or YouTube using the #RSDUnsigned hashtag. Then they will need to finalise the submission by following and completing the details here: https://www.breedmedia.co.uk/rsd-unsigned/ before 16 ^th October – the process couldn’t be simpler!

A panel of music industry experts have also been assembled to judge the competition and listen to the music submitted, these include:

· Dan Smith – Lead Singer, Bastille

· Eva Davies – Artist and Label Manager, Come Play with Me

· Karen Emanuel – CEO, Key Production Group

· Martin Black – Record Store Owner, Spinning Discs

· Nadia Khan – Women in CTRL Founder

"This collaboration between Record Store Day and Breed Media is a testament to our commitment to supporting independent artists and recognising the important role they play in their communities," said Alan Jordan of Reflex Records in Newcastle and the RSD Board. "RSD Unsigned aims to celebrate the diversity and innovation in new music and shine a light on the role record shops all around the country play in supporting new and breaking talent”

The winning artist will not only receive the prize of their music being pressed onto 500 Bio-Vinyl records, but they will also be given the chance to perform at KEY Production Group’s 33 1/3 birthday party in a legendary London venue in November. This performance will expose the winner to a unique audience of industry executives and music fans.

Karen Emanuel, CEO of KEY Production Group, said: “Since its inception in 1990, the Key Production Group has always championed independent artists. I’m delighted for Breed Media to be partnering with RSD to give an amazing opportunity to an unsigned act”

The RSD Unsigned competition has supported four previous winners including: Amy Fitz Doyley, Sister Cookie, Heavy Rapids and Barbudo. They have accrued success with mainstream radio play, UK-wide tours and festival appearances.

Aspiring artists are encouraged to act swiftly, as the RSD Unsigned competition will close on October 16th, 2023. For more information and to submit your entry, visit https://www.breedmedia.co.uk/rsd-unsigned/ .

Stay tuned for updates and exciting announcements on Record Store Day and Breed Media's social media channels.

CELEBRATING PRIDE WITH THE UK'S INDIE RECORD SHOPS!

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 22:05:56 GMT

LGBTQIA+ stories from behind the counter in indie record shops up and down the UK.

Happy Pride 2023! To celebrate, we’re bringing you LGBTQIA+ stories from behind the counter in indie record shops up and down the UK.

First up is Sharon from Reggie’s Retro, Ventnor

I've been "out" my entire career, so I'm used to "being myself" as a LGBTQIA+ woman. I never thought I'd end up in my fifties owning a record shop back in my hometown of Ventnor, Isle of Wight, and it's absolutely fantastic. Ventnor is a pretty edgy and inclusive place anyway, but I've succeeded in creating a safe and fun place for myself to spend my days as well as providing a space that appeals to a very diverse customer base. I can be as camp I like for a start. Visibility is important; the shop is in the heart of the town, and I guess most people know me. For our younger customers I just think it's very cool for them to know they are welcome. I have a lot of LGBTQIA+ customers of all ages and it's important to me that they recognise me and Reggie's Retro as a strong ally.

It's great to see Pride is still going strong. I did a lot of marching and protesting in the 1980s and 1990s, but we can't ever take tolerance and acceptance for granted. Some of the backlash around trans rights saddens me deeply. The movement and community and all our allies need to stand strong together. Music and artistic expression are obviously a very powerful medium for bringing people together and bringing out the best in people. That's certainly true at Reggie's!

Jacky from Resident, Brighton

[I] started work at a record shop many years ago, which was basically my ‘coming out story’. [It was] not something I felt I could do in my previous career. Representation in music really matters to me and I love that this is still developing and that our shop champions it. Pride for me this year will be spent hanging out with a group of friends in Queen’s Park, there’s usually a good mix of people attending some alternative events.

Marcia from Vinyl Van, Dorchester

Life behind the counter as an LGBTQIA+ person is overwhelmingly positive. When we opened the shop, I was pre-transition and a little nervous how my coming out might be received. What's been so fantastic is how supportive and lovely our customers and community have been!

For Pride this year, we took part in a Dorset Youth Pride Event, in collaboration with the wonderful people at the Shire Hall Museum. We hosted a Pride Pick 'n' Mix open decks session and had a fantastic day that felt really positive and lovely.

Vinyl Van is an open, loving and safe space for everyone.

Gary, Out Of The Attic Music, Hull

I co-own Out Of The Attic Music here in Hull with Andy my brother and being gay isn’t really an issue, I wasn’t sure if the other shop owners knew about me or not, but I kept quiet. Last year on Hull Pride Day, I found out that everyone knew I was gay and didn’t have an issue. Whenever we get any LGBTQIA+ customers in, I do have an idea how to address people without upsetting or saying the wrong thing. I have advised one or two of the shop owners in the arcade too and it’s helped to have a view from the gay side of life!

With me being the only gay in the arcade, this year I am currently organising the shops in the arcade into participating in the celebrations for Hull Pride on the 29th of July. The owners of the arcade are putting a vinyl floor covering of the rainbow flag and some of the shops are creating desserts, drinks, floral displays and face painting and I’m providing the Pride playlist for the arcade. This is the first time anyone in the arcade has done this, so I really hope it will be a fabulous success for everyone involved!

Customers from the LGBTQIA+ community don’t stand out; we are no different to anyone else. You can’t always tell unless they want you to know, not a lot of customers know about me. Music brings everyone together; it has no barriers, no phobias, but can heal and help so much!

Record Store Day wants to thank all individuals who took part in this piece as well as all LGBTQIA+ individuals from behind the counter. Whether you are celebrating Pride for the fiftieth year or the first, thank you for all you do providing music for record lovers everywhere! ��

CELEBRATE RSD WITH BBC RADIO 6 MUSIC'S 'VINYL WEEKENDER'!

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 22:47:01 GMT

This coming weekend, BBC Radio 6 Music will celebrate Record Store Day (Saturday 22nd April) with The Vinyl Weekender.

The Vinyl Weekender kicks off on Friday (21st April), with presenters playing their favourite 7 inch records. On Saturday (22nd April), presenters will play their favourite 12 inch singles, and on Sunday (23rd April), the network will be celebrating albums and album tracks.

In addition, a brand new podcast called Counter Culture is now available on BBC Sounds here . Counter Culture is a five episode love letter to record shops across the UK and those that work, shop and - in some cases - live there.

Each episode of the sound-scaped podcast focuses on several shops in a different city, and takes the listener behind the counter to hear stories from the vinyl warriors and taste-makers who shape these cities’ cultural landscapes.

Scottish band Sacred Paws will be taking listeners to the vinyl racks of Glasgow, James Smith of Yard Act will be showing listeners around Leeds, Enola Gay will be in Belfast, Gruff Rhys in Cardiff and producer Graham Massey will be digging in the crates of Manchester.

And throughout the day shows will be playing their favourite RSD releases too and talking to participating artists and shops too! From all of us here at RSD, we wanted to say huge thank you to BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 6 Music who have delivered yet another year of amazing coverage! We want to shoutout all the DJs, producers and people behind the scenes who contributed to this year’s Vinyl Weekender. Thank you all for helping us celebrate all that's wonderful about our independent record shop community.

ALL THE RECORD STORE DAY CELEBRATIONS TAKING PLACE THIS WEEKEND!

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 08:54:28 GMT

IN STORE PERFORMANCES, SIGNINGS, DJ SETS, GIVEAWAYS AND MORE
OFFICAL BEER, TIKTOK AND AN RSD APP

Tuesday 18th April, 2023:

More than 250 independent record shops are gearing up for the biggest celebration of the year this weekend, as Record Store Day is set to place on Saturday 22nd April.

Hundreds of artists, including Official 2023 ambassadors the 1975, Taylor Swift, Self Esteem, Foals, Loyle Carner and Greentea Peng have come together to shower independent shops with a series of exclusive and limited edition vinyl releases that will be available over the counter only from the morning of Saturday 22nd.

Talking of their involvement in this year’s campaign, Matty Healy of the 1975, explained: “Independent record stores are the lifeblood of the music industry and have played a crucial role in our story so far. It couldn’t be more important to support their vital community and culture”.

BBC Sounds

BBC Sounds is set to return as the Official Media Partner of this year’s event with a host of support across the networks. Taking us beyond the crates and behind the counter of some of the most exciting record stores in the country with some of their most famous fans in new podcast offering, Counter Culture, now available exclusively on BBC Sounds. 6 Music will also be broadcasting The Vinyl Weekender - celebrating vinyl and record collections on air including exclusive RSD releases and presenter’s favourites on wax for three whole days.

Events

And in true Record Store Day fashion, music fans in every corner of the country will be able to enjoy a weekend of over 70 free events, performances and activities.

From an all day party with DJs, a BBQ and raves at Intense Records in Essex, to a full day line-up of local music and performances at the local church hosted by VoxBox in Edinburgh, there really is something for everyone.

In some locations, fans will even get the chance to meet their favourite artists and take part in signing sessions including Baby Queen (Resident, Brighton), Inspiral Carpets (Raves from the Grave, Frome) and Steve Mason (Truck Store, Oxford).

To accompany all of these great events, shops will also be stocking this year’s official RSD Beer: Meantime x Double Groove. 50p per every bottle sold will also be donated to this year’s Official Charity Partner, War Child.

Fans can find their local record shop event by heading over to the events listing page now.

TikTok

And for those who just can’t get enough in-store on the day, the official TikTok partnership is returning with an official Record Store Day hashtag and guest playlist (launching April 19th) featuring all of this year’s favourite artists releases! Fans are encouraged to create with sounds from the playlist, sharing how they’re spending their #RecordStoreDay, what releases they’ll be lining up for, and more with our official hashtag, launching on #RecordStoreDay April 22nd.

Create your own RSD release

And finally, fans can also enjoy something new, fun and unique this Record Store Day via its collaboration with Filmily and a new RSD app. Music lovers can star on their very own album covers and champion their local record shop by taking a selfie on the app and sharing to socials!

To find out what’s happening near you this weekend, head to our official events listing page and/ or contact your l ocal independent record shop.

Record Store Day will take place in over 250 locations on Saturday 22nd April 2023.

Record Store Day is the one day of the year when over 260 independent record shops all across the UK come together to celebrate their unique culture. Special vinyl releases are made exclusively for the day and many shops and cities host artist performances and events to mark the occasion. Thousands more shops celebrate the day around the globe in what’s become one of the biggest annual events on the music calendar.

RECORD STORE DAY UK LETS FANS BECOME ALBUM COVER STARS!

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 08:46:37 GMT

Ever wondered how your Record Store Day release would look? Well wonder no more!

Thanks to a collaboration with the team at Filmily, we’re excited to give you the chance to celebrate your local independent record store and become the cover star of your very own album cover.

Whether you’re at home, on the commute or digging in the crates of your favourite record store it’s never been easier to give your favourite indie shop a shoutout – all you have to do is FOLLOW THIS LINK , search for your local shop, and strike a pose in three… two… one… nailed it!

The result sees you seamlessly put on the cover of your own unique sleeve complete with your name in lights and a shout out to your local independent record store.

Keep an eye out for posters in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol and Liverpool featuring a QR code to take you straight to the cover shoot, too.

But the fun doesn’t stop once you’ve realised your potential as the new face of music. If you share your cover, using the hashtags #recordstoreday or #RSD23 on social media, you’ll not only be putting your favourite shop on the map – you’ll also be in with a chance of winning a pair of Bowers & Wilkins px7 headphones.

We’re really proud to give music fans and shops the chance to celebrate together ahead of Record Store Day and spread the word far and wide before the day itself on April 22nd, and can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with!

RECORD STORE DAY ANNOUNCES THIS YEAR'S FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES FOR OFFICIAL CHARITY PARTNER, WAR CHILD

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:14:07 GMT

Rega has donated three limited edition RSD x Rega Planar 3 turntables signed by Foals, Kae Tempest and Frank Turner to be raffled via WarChild.org.uk
Record Labels have created a series of RSD War Child releases including The Cure, Brian Eno, Celeste, Miles Davis, Dirty Projectors & Bjork with a £1 donation from every sale going to War Child

Thurs 6th April 2023, London: Record Store Day UK are pleased to announce this year’s activity to support its Official 2023 Charity Partner, War Child.

Three lucky vinyl fans will be able to get their hands on a signed Rega Planar 3 deck by entering a ticketed raffle on the War Child Web Shop. To buy raffle tickets for the signed decks visit Kae Tempest , Frank Turner and Foals . Each entry costs £5, with no limit on the number of times fans can enter the draw. Winners will be announced on 30th April 2023.

On Record Store Day itself on 22nd April fans will also have the chance to purchase ten highly collectible records from world-famous artists including The Cure, Miles Davies, The Police and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts.

The records - which also include titles from Celeste, Brian Eno, Mike Oldfield, Marc Almond and a collaboration between Dirty Projectors & Björk - will only be available at participating independent record shops, with a donation of £1 from every copy sold going to the charity.

From special anniversary editions of classic albums and singles to rare demo recordings and first-time-on-vinyl records, any one of the records will be a unique addition to any record collection.

Head of War Child Records Richard Clarke said: “We’re exceptionally proud of our partnership with Record Store Day as we enter our fifth year working together.

“Every year we’ve grown and raised more and more to help support children whose lives have been torn apart by war. With ten incredible releases and the support of the brilliant Record Store Day team and amazing partners Meantime and Rega this year looks set to be another record-breaking year."

“Music has always been at the epicentre of everything War Child does and is in the DNA of the organisation, so it’s a real privilege to be the official charity partner for Record Store Day once more and help celebrate the unique and wonderful culture and communities of the independent record store.”

The 2023 Record Store Day UK x War Child releases are as follows:

Frank Turner - Tape Deck Heart

10th anniversary burnt red vinyl, metallic-printed, gatefold sleeve. The insert contains lyrics and brand new liner notes written by Frank.

Celeste - Lately EP

Pink vinyl six-track EP featuring the latest single ‘To Love A Man’ for the first time on vinyl, as well as the extended version of her breakthrough track, ‘Strange’.

Mike Oldfield - TUBULAR BELLS - OPUS ONE

For the 50th anniversary of Tubular Bells, Opus One is the original demo for the album issued on vinyl for the first time

Marc Almond - Fantastic Star

First ever pressing on vinyl - the artist's cut featuring new track listing and artwork.

The Police - Every Breath You Take

40th anniversary 2 x 7” double pack, coloured (red / yellow) 7” singles
Featuring the extremely rare track -‘Every Bomb You Make’

Brian Eno - FOREVER VOICELESS

1LP Crystal Clear Coloured Vinyl + Eco Packaging
Instrumental edition of FOREVERANDEVERNOMORE

The Cure – Show

30th anniversary picture disc in die-cut gatefold sleeve.

Miles Davis - Rare Miles From The Complete On The Corner Sessions

Coloured LP Vinyl

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts - Up Your Alley

Lemonade coloured LP Vinyl

Dirty Projectors & Björk - Mount Wittenberg Orca

Expanded Edition of the Mount Wittenberg Orca LP, Dirty Projectors' critically acclaimed collaborative album with Icelandic legend Björk. This 2xLP release adds 13 bonus tracks of never-before-released material including early demos of Mount Wittenberg Orca and archival audio of the band and Bjork rehearsing the material.

Like all the titles on this year’s list of releases , the Record Store Day War Child exclusives will only be available in-store at one of the participating independent record shops on 22nd of April. You can find your local store here .

RECORD TOKENS LAUNCHES TREASURE HUNT FOR RECORD STORE DAY!

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 09:19:27 GMT

RECORD TOKENS LAUNCHES TREASURE HUNT FOR RECORD STORE DAY!

To celebrate Record Tokens 5th birthday, we’re launching a nation-wide treasure hunt and you’re invited to join in!

From April 11th, ten £25 super-size Record Tokens (just like the one below!) will hidden among the racks of ten independent record shops all across the UK.

All you have to do is see if you can find one – but act fast because once they’re gone, they’re gone!

Record shops may well be leaving clues for you across their socials throughout the week, so keep an eye out in case you guess one correctly.

And if you’re lucky enough to find one, snap a selfie of you with the token in and simply follow the instructions on the back to be sent a £25 token just in time for Record Store Day!

You may want to gift it to a life-long music lover, to someone yet to experience buying their first vinyl record or keep it all to yourself for the biggest day on the record buying calendar! Good luck on your crate-digging, treasure-hunting journey!

We are proud to be working with these great record stores:

Assai Records Edinburgh

1 Grindlay St, Edinburgh, EH3 9AT

Assai Records Dundee

33 Union Street, Dundee, DD1 4BS

Lost in Vinyl

20 Magdalene Street, Cambridge, CB3 0AF

Phoenix Sounds

6 Pearl Assurance House, Queen Street, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 2AQ

Raves From the Grave

2-3 King Street, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BH

Sister Ray

75 Berwick Street, London, W1F 8TG

Tangled Parrot

Upper Floor, 32 King Street, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire, SA31 1BS

Tasty Records

25 Regent Road, Altrincham, WA14 1RX

The LP Café Watford

173 The Parade, Watford, WD17 1NJ

The Vinyl Frontier

35 Grove Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 4TT

RECORD STORE DAY UNSIGNED WINNER “AMY FITZ DOYLEY” ANNOUNCES FIRST VINYL RELEASE

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:53:28 GMT

‘EYE OF THE NEEDLE’ WILL BE RELEASED ON FRIDAY 14TH APRIL ON PINK VINYL IN RECORD STORES/ BANDCAMP

Amy Fitz Doyley, the winner of Record Store Day’s nationwide Unsigned competition has today announced details of her debut physical release “Eye of the Needle”. It will be released a week before Record Store Day, on Friday 14th April, and will be available from select indie record shops and Bandcamp.

In 2021, Amy Fitz Doyley took home the Record Store Day Unsigned accolade, which gives one talented DIY UK artist the opportunity to have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records and stocked on the shelves of record stores around the UK.

The competition, coordinated in partnership with Sound Performance, was judged by a panel of industry experts including Alex Rice (Sports Team), Jessie Atkinson (Gigwise), Chris Marksberry (Sounds Performance), Steve Courtnell (Pie & Vinyl) and Sister Cookie (previous RSD Unsigned Winner) who all deemed Amy Fitz Doyley to be of exceptional talent and deserving of this special prize.

Upon winning the competition, Amy said “"It’s one of the BEST feelings in the world to be the winner of this prize! Holding this bright pink vinyl with MY music on it is such a dream come true - thank you so much!!! Winning the competition has been a boost and helped me to make meaningful connections. The plan is to continue writing, making and sharing music as much as possible - I’m really excited about the future!"

Amy has already received much praise since releasing her single “Eye of the Needle” with Paddy Clarke of The Quietus describing Amy as “in possession of a considerable voice but employs it subtly as she slowly unfurls her hypnotic electronic pop.”

The physical release will also contain a Blue Loop Remix on side B.

To find out more about Amy, be sure to give her social media channels a follow below and ask your local record shop to order in a copy of new release.

Website: amyfitzdoyley.com
Twitter: Twitter
Soundcloud: SoundCloud
Facebook: Facebook
Instagram: Instagram
Bandcamp: https://amyfitzdoyley.bandcamp.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amyfitzdoyley

The RSD Unsigned competition is set to return later this year, so if you’re an unsigned artist be sure to keep an eye on our official channels.

OCEAN COLOUR SCENE’S SIMON FOWLER TO PLAY LAUNCH PARTY AT MEANTIME’S TAPROOM

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 10:25:55 GMT

The intimate show on 12th April will also launch Record Store Day 2023’s official beer, Meantime’s Double Groove All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Record Store Day’s charity partner, War Child Tickets on sale 9am, Monday 3rd April.

GREENWICH, LONDON, March, 2023 ; Record Store Day UK is excited to announce a one-off exclusive performance from Ocean Colour Scene’s Simon Fowler to kick-start the countdown to this year’s event.

The intimate show at the Meantime Brewing’s Taproom in Greenwich on 12th April will see the frontman of the legendary British band deliver a stripped-back set to mark the start of this year’s Record Store Day celebrations, which will culminate in over 250 independent record stores around the UK stocking hundreds of exclusive releases as part of Record Store Day itself on 22nd April.

Simon’s show will also act as a perfect occasion to toast the launch of Record Store Day’s official 2023 beer Meantime’s Double Groove, which will be available during the gig. As well as a £1 donation from every sale of a pint of Double Groove, all proceeds from ticket sales for the show will go to Record Store Day’s official charity partner War Child.

Supporting Simon will be last year’s Record Store Day Unsigned winner Amy Fitz Doyley, with a very limited amount of tickets for this unique show going on sale from 9am on Monday 3rd April via Design My Night.

Not only is Meantime’s Taproom an ideal gig venue, it’s also mere metres away from where Double Groove was crafted.

The full-bodied IPA, described by Meantime’s head brewer Joe Gardener as “the ultimate hop duo”, has a unique character – making it a fitting tribute to every single one of the knowledgeable, dedicated team members behind the counters at the hundreds of independent record shops taking part in Record Store Day.

Double Groove will also be available on Meantime’s web shop https://shop.meantimebrewing.com/ from Mon 3rd of April, with 50p per bottle going to War child. As part of the celebrations of the teams that keep vital parts of local music scenes thriving, the beer will also be available in selected shops on the 22nd April where music-lovers will be able to get hold of limited edition Meantime t-shirts and tote bags at participating record stores (while stocks last).

With only 60 tickets available for the show, anyone who misses out on the launch event will be able to get their fix of acoustic Ocean Colour Scene on Record Store Day itself with the band’s exclusive release B-Sides, Seasides and Freerides.

The classic 1997 B-sides, demos and rarities compilation is re-issued on vinyl for the very first time exclusively for RSD, having only been previously available on a very limited pressing. Including fan favourites “Huckleberry Grove”, “Robin Hood”, plus an acoustic demo of "The Circle", a stripped-down version of "The Day We Caught the Train” and a live version of the Beatles classic “day Tripper” featuring Liam and Noel Gallagher.

Like all the titles on this year’s list of releases , B-Sides, Seasides and Freerides will only be available in-store at one of the participating independent record shops on 22nd of April. You can find your local store here .

Meantime’s continued collaboration with Record Store Day is a way of highlighting the independent record sector which consistently finds creative and inventive ways to keep physical music discovery exciting for communities all over the UK. Now in its 16th year, more than 250 independent record stores will be marking Record Store Day on April 22nd, with hundreds of exclusive and limited-edition releases available from the likes of Taylor Swift, Madonna, Bob Marley and this year’s Record Store Day UK ambassadors The 1975.

THIS YEAR'S OFFICIAL RSD 23 RELEASE LIST!

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 12:11:35 GMT

Special releases from the likes of Elton John, Taylor Swift, Pixies, Madonna and this year’s Record Store Day UK Ambassador The 1975

Record Store Day UK is proud to announce this year’s list of exclusive and special releases coming on Saturday 22nd April

Fans can expect collectible and limited edition records from the likes of Taylor Swift, Foals, Loyle Carner, 2023 UK Record Store Day Ambassadors The 1975, Elton John, NAS, Madonna, Bastille & many more!  

Hundreds of artists have come together to celebrate the UK’s independent record shops which are at the heart of local communities up and down the country. Artists, labels and stores on every continent in the world* have signed up for the 16th edition of the annual event which champions the unique culture of independent record shops and the art of vinyl.    

With special records spanning jazz, hip-hop, reggae, classical, folk - and even a release from the cast of Bluey – there will be something on offer for music fans of all ages and tastes at their local record store in April. 

Taylor Swift

This year’s Record Store Day also sees the return of 2022’s global ambassador Taylor Swift, who will be releasing the first and only release of ‘folklore: the long pond studio sessions’. It features collaborators from the album including Aaron Dessner (The National), Jack Antonoff (Bleachers) and Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) and will be released as a double LP on grey vinyl and in a bespoke gatefold jacket.

Having previously described record stores as “sacred” places to “explore and discover music new and old”, this release will see more of Taylor’s fans returning to independent shops all over the UK.

Emerging Talent & RSD Legends

Taylor will appear on record store shelves alongside newer acts seeing their career’s go from strength-to-strength like Celeste, Baby Queen, Yard Act, Tom Grennan and Radio 1’s Sound Of 2023 nominees piri & tommy.  

Other acts like Sam Fender and Dermot Kennedy will be releasing on Record Store Day for a second consecutive year as artists continue to see the benefit of more their fans celebrating the hard-working music lovers behind the counter who play a key role in championing local music and talent. 

Also joining the list of releases this year is former record store employee Baby Queen, who will be putting out her track Colours Of You, taken from the soundtrack of Netflix series Heartstopper.

"I’m so excited to have a Record Store Day release this year," she said.

"Three years ago, I was working on RSD behind the counter at Rough Trade East - a record store that quite literally saved my life.

"Vinyl is so special to me and record stores are the most magical places on earth - places where music and art are appreciated as they were intended to be appreciated."

Record Store Day regulars Pixies also appear on the list this year. Having seen the culture around buying music evolve over the years the band’s guitarist Joey Santiago said they’re “excited to be part of Record Store Day again in 2023”.

"We've been part of RSD a number of times before and we have some exciting releases for you, which look and sound awesome. 

 “The local independent record stores are the lifeblood and hub of any local scene, and I feel they have played a big part in the success of Pixies over the years”.

This year’s edition of Record Store Day follows a recent report from the Digital Entertainment and Retail Association which showed vinyl sales had overtaken CDs in value terms in the UK for the first time in 35 years.  

“We can’t wait to be taking part in Record Store Day UK,” said Scott Gamble from Crash Records in Leeds.

He added: “It’s such a great chance for us - and others stores all over the country - to shout about what we do and see the local music-loving community out in force.

“Having such a great list of releases from household names through to brand new artists means we get an opportunity to introduce our world to people who aren’t necessarily already part of our brilliant set of regulars. So we’re excited to welcome back some of those new faces after 22 April too.”   

As always we’ll be expecting a flurry of queues up and down the country on 22 April as fans look to get their hands on releases from the likes of Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Dolly Parton, Carole King and former RSD UK ambassadors The Big Moon, or Kae Tempest’s brand new RSD release and Grammy-winning duo Sam Smith and Kim Petras.    

So just a gentle reminder that all stock on this year’s release list will be sold on a first-come-first-serve basis. But with so many stores taking part, we recommend sussing out where your nearest participating store is. You can  click here  t o find out.

Keep your eyes on our website and socials for the latest updates.   

*Except in Antarctica, nobody needs to queue up outside a store in there on a cold April morning. 

THE 1975 ANNOUNCED AS OFFICIAL AMBASSADORS OF RSD UK 2023

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 12:16:32 GMT

They will be releasing a limited edition recording of a live performance with The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra just for independent record shops

Record Store Day UK is very proud to announce that The 1975 are this year’s official ambassadors.

Off the back of their fifth consecutive UK number one album, a sell-out world tour and three 2023 Brit Award nominations, the band are poised to fly the flag for the unique culture and heritage of independent record stores and the teams behind the counter who help shape the UK music scene.

As part of their role, the Manchester four-piece will be releasing a live performance with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra on vinyl for the first time on this year’s Record Store Day taking place on Saturday April 22nd.

Recorded in 2016, the double LP features tracks from across the band’s early career, including ‘Somebody Else’, ‘Chocolate’ and ‘The Sound’. The release will only be available at participating record stores.

Speaking about the importance of record stores, the band’s front-man Matty Healy said:

“The guys and I are really proud to be ambassadors for Record Store Day this year. Independent record stores are the lifeblood of the music industry and have played a crucial role in our story so far. It couldn’t be more important to support their vital community and culture.”

The band, who follow previous ambassadors including the likes of Taylor Swift, Noel Gallagher, The Big Moon and Sir Elton John, are set to champion the passion and dedication of the teams who run record stores all year.

They’re no strangers to the culture of record stores, often inspiring music lovers to tap into the joys of collecting vinyl by creating limited edition versions of their albums that can only be found on the shelves of independent shops.

The release of their latest album, Being Funny In A Foreign Language, was accompanied by an exclusive white vinyl made only for record shops and an intimate performance at Kingston’s Banquet Records the night before the album release.

Despite only being out since October, the album quickly became one of the best-selling records in the UK in 2022, a year that saw vinyl outselling CDs for first time in 35 years.

Record Store Day is widely credited as one of the driving forces behind the recent vinyl resurgence. Now in its 16th year, the success of the event has sparked a huge turnaround in fortunes for the nation’s independent record stores whose unwavering resilience and ingenuity is helping them fight back against the coronavirus pandemic and cost of living crisis.

Meet the team behind the counter at Wax and Beans

Louise Jackson from Wax and Beans based in Bury, just outside the 1975’s native Manchester, said: “We can’t wait to be taking part in Record Store Day again this year, and to have a Manchester band like the 1975 putting our local musical heritage on the map and celebrating the culture of record shops in this way is fantastic.

“Like all the stores involved in the day, we work incredibly hard all year round to keep our shop thriving as a hub for the music-loving community. Bands like The 1975 are a product of independent music scenes like ours all over the country who back emerging talent, so it feels great to see them championing indie record shops just like ours in such a meaningful way.”

Hundreds of shops across the UK will be taking part in Record Store Day on 22nd April. The full list of over 400 official releases for Record Store Day UK 2023 is coming soon.

Live With The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

The 1975’s release will be available in three formats: 2xLP clear vinyl in a gatefold packaging, 1xCD and 1xCassette of this never-before released album. It will be available over the counter only, in participating RSD shops, on a first come first served basis from Saturday 22nd April. You can find your nearest participating record shop here

Tracklisting:

I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it
Love Me
A Change Of Heart
Somebody Else
Loving Someone
Please Be Naked
Lostmyhead
If I Believe You
Chocolate
The Sound