A Celebration of International Record Store Day

Vinyl lovers, rejoice! Every year, music fans around the world celebrate International Record Store Day (RSD). It’s a day dedicated to independent record stores, rare vinyl releases, and the joy of discovering music the old-school way. But how did this tradition start? Let’s take a spin through its history.

The Birth of Record Store Day

International Record Store Day (RSD) started in 2007 when a group of record store owners had an idea. Streaming was on the rise, and digital music threatened physical sales. They wanted to remind the world of the magic of vinyl. So, in 2008, the first Record Store Day was held. It featured exclusive vinyl releases, live performances, and packed indie shops. It was a hit! Music fans of all kinds flocked to local stores, eager to grab limited-edition records and experience the thrill of crate-digging.

The event wasn’t just about sales. It was about celebrating music culture, independent artists, and the unique charm of brick-and-mortar record shops. Stores that once faced the threat of closing saw a resurgence of interest. Record collectors, both young and old, came together to share their love of vinyl.

The Growth of a Global Phenomenon

What started in the U.S. quickly spread worldwide. Today, Record Store Day happens in countries across the globe. Every April, artists release special editions, fans queue outside their favourite shops, and live music fills the air. Big names like David Bowie, Taylor Swift, and Prince have all had exclusive RSD releases. But it’s not just about the stars. Independent and underground artists also use RSD as a platform to reach new audiences.

The event has helped drive the vinyl resurgence. Over the past decade, vinyl sales have soared, proving that physical music is far from dead. Collectors appreciate the superior sound quality, the detailed album art, and the joy of flipping through records in a store.

Why Vinyl Still Matters

There’s something special about vinyl. The crackle of the needle, the album artwork, the feeling of holding music in your hands—it’s an experience. Record Store Day keeps that alive. It supports small businesses and keeps music culture thriving. In a world of instant streaming, RSD reminds us to slow down and savour music in a more meaningful way.

Join the Celebration!

Want to be part of the fun? Find a participating store near you. Get there early, hunt for hidden gems, and maybe even catch a live show. Whether you’re a longtime collector or just curious, RSD welcomes everyone.

So, dust off that turntable and get ready to spin. Happy Record Store Day!

Resources

Local Edinburgh Record Stores:

We have a wide variety of resources in the Library for you to access. We have books, sheet music and digital resources for listening online. Check out LibrarySearch to find out more.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on Music here on the blog with: The Article: World Music Day