Record Store Day has announced the date of its 2025 annual edition.
What began as a grassroots effort to celebrate independent record stores has grown into a global phenomenon, uniting music lovers, artists, labels and stores.
The story of Record Store Day (RSD) began in 2007, when a group of independent record stores wanted a way to highlight their unique culture. Inspired by the success of events like Free Comic Book Day, they envisioned a similar celebration for music. The first official Record Store Day was held on April 19, 2008, with the legendary singer-songwriter Metallica kicking off the inaugural event at Rasputin Music in San Francisco.
Since then, Record Store Day has grown exponentially, celebrated annually on a Saturday in April and often accompanied by a second event, RSD Black Friday, in November.
While Record Store Day began in the United States, it quickly spread across the globe. Today, countries including the UK, Canada, Japan, and Australia join the celebration. Each region brings its unique flavor to the event, often featuring local artists and regional exclusives.
At its core, Record Store Day is a tribute to the independent record stores that have been pivotal in shaping local music scenes and fostering community. These stores are more than just retail outlets; they are cultural hubs where people discover new artists, connect with fellow music lovers, and delve into the rich history of recorded sound.
Over the years, the event has helped spotlight the challenges faced by these small businesses, particularly in the face of digital music's rise and the closure of countless brick-and-mortar shops.
One of the most anticipated aspects of Record Store Day is the release of exclusive, limited-edition vinyl records. From rare reissues and colored vinyl to live recordings and unreleased tracks, these special editions are a treasure trove for collectors. Major artists, indie bands, and legacy acts like David Bowie, Taylor Swift, and The Rolling Stones have contributed to these coveted releases.
In addition to exclusive records, stores often host live performances, DJ sets, artist meet-and-greets, and community events.