essential record store day selections - comprehensive guide for all purchasers
Vinyl Haven:
Get ready to groove this year, as the spirit of music enthusiasts worldwide comes alive on Record Store Day 2022! Since its inception in 2008, this special day has been a cherished celebration for music fans, independent record stores, and the broader community. This event, known to champion the indie scene, now takes place across all continents, with Antarctica being the only exception.
As the countdown begins for this year's Record Store Day, we're here to help you prep with a few essentials. From the genesis of this music extravaganza to its ongoing relevance and the strategies for scoring the best deals, we've got you covered.
The Record Store Day Lowdown: A Crash Course
Record Store Day isn't just another Small Business Saturday; it's a music enthusiast's ode to independent record stores. These establishments have long been integral to our society, but in recent years, they've faced tough challenges posed by new music technologies and evolving listening habits. But fear not; Record Store Day is here to empower these outstanding stores and nurture a new generation of vinyl collectors.
During this day, music devotees and record store employees can gather together to celebrate the unique impact that record stores have had and continue to have on our lives. Don't be surprised if you find deals, new releases, and Record Store Day-exclusive releases at your local indie store.
2021, for instance, saw Doors fans singing praises for a vinyl collection that unveiled ultra-rare session tapes revealing the musical journey behind legendary tracks like "Roadhouse Blues" and "Queen Of The Highway." Meanwhile, punk rock enthusiasts reveled in the 2019 pressing of The Ramones' "Live at the Palladium," presenting hits like never heard before. The 2017 event left fans thrilled with special-edition vinyl releases from artists such as Prince, The Cure, Pink Floyd, and Bruce Springsteen. Oh, and let's not forget the excitement from 2014, which catapulted Childish Gambino's Because the Internet to the top of the U.S. Top Vinyl LPs chart.
For years, artists ranging from Aretha Franklin to the Beach Boys have graced us with limited-edition vinyls on Record Store Day. Some of these LPs now fetch hefty prices on auction sites, making them collector's items.
When's Record Store Day?
While April is the month most commonly associated with Record Store Day, there's another musical celebration around the corner – Black Friday.While some folks line up for discount electronics and appliances on the day after Thanksgiving, music lovers get to trot off to their favorite record store and check out the Artist exclusives and Black Friday deals.
The grand Record Store Day, however, takes place in April, and it's the event that draws participation from the music industry. For many independent record stores, it's the most significant sales day of the year. So mark your calendars – Record Store Day 2022 is on April 23rd.
We still don't have the complete lineup of participating artists, but we know that Taylor Swift has signed up as the Global Record Store Day Ambassador, so keep an eye out for what she might have in store for her fans. And of course, look forward to the unveiling of some long-awaited David Bowie rarities.
Getting the Most Out of Record Store Day 2022
Stoked to join the Record Store Day 2022 festivities? Here are some pro tips to help you make the most of it:
- Support your local, independent record stores. Yes, it's tempting to get your vinyl fix from bigger chains, but remember that Record Store Day is all about supporting your community. Plus, it's where you'll find the hottest releases.
- Call your local store to confirm availability. Some Record Store Day releases are limited editions, and availability can vary drastically from one store to another.
- Arrive early to score the best selection of new music.
- Capitalize on the sales. Remember, you're not just there to purchase limited editions and new releases; you're there to boost your local business. Check out their wide selection of great music, old and new. Even used LPs can be worth your while with a little TLC and a vinyl cleaning kit.
So gather up your pals, slide on your favorite band T-shirt, and gear up for the best Record Store Day ever! May your collection grow, and your love for music thrive!
- To enhance your Record Store Day experience, don't forget to bring a vinyl cleaning kit to ensure your new purchases are well-maintained, elevating your overall music lifestyle.
- As the Record Store Day 2022 celebrations unravel, make your shopping excursion a combination of entertainment, lifestyle, and support for independent stores - look for music you love, browse artist exclusives, and don't forget to pick up a vinyl cleaning kit for those refreshing finds.
