Record Store Day

…and how it relates to indie record labels

Record Store Day is an annual event that celebrates the culture of independently-owned record stores…

…featuring special releases, in-store performances, and other exclusive events.

The day was originally created in 2007 by a group of independent record store owners and employees who were concerned about the decline of independent record stores and the rise of digital music.

Since its inception, Record Store Day has become a global phenomenon, with thousands of record stores in over 40 countries participating.

The first Record Store Day was held on April 19, 2008, and featured special releases from artists such as The Flaming Lips, Death Cab for Cutie, and R.E.M.

The event was a huge success, with thousands of people visiting independent record stores across the country. In subsequent years, Record Store Day has grown in popularity and scope, with more and more artists releasing exclusive vinyl records and more record stores participating.

Record Store Day has had a significant impact on the vinyl music industry, which has seen a resurgence in recent years. According to Nielsen Music, vinyl sales have increased by more than 1,000% since 2007, with more than 41 million vinyl records sold in the United States in 2022.

Record Store Day has played a key role in this resurgence, as it has helped to create a renewed interest in physical music and the unique experience of shopping for vinyl records in independent record stores.

The event is also important to independent record labels, as it provides a platform for them to showcase their music and connect with fans. Many independent record labels release special vinyl records on Record Store Day, and some have even started their own record stores in order to better promote their music.

Record Store Day has become an important cultural event that celebrates the independent record store and the unique experience of shopping for physical music.

It has helped to create a renewed interest in vinyl records and has had a significant impact on the vinyl music industry. Additionally, it has provided a platform for independent record labels to connect with fans and promote their music.

Record Store Day is a testament to the enduring appeal of physical music and the importance of supporting independent businesses like labels and shops!

What Should Record Labels

Do On Record Store Day?

Indie record labels can play a crucial role in promoting and supporting their local record stores, particularly on days like Record Store Day.

Here are a few ways record labels can get involved…

1. Ask them in advance how your record label can help with RSD!

Record labels should ask indie record stores in advance how they can help them out with Record Store Day…

By doing so, they can ensure that the store has the support they need to make the most of the event and that any collaborative efforts are well-planned and effective.

Asking in advance also allows the store to prepare and plan for any promotions, special releases, or events that the label may be organizing, ensuring a smooth and successful Record Store Day for everyone involved.

2. Create Exclusive Versions of Your Releases for Local Stores!

Local indie record labels can create exclusive versions of their releases just for their local and nearby record stores by printing a limited number of vinyl copies or CDs with unique artwork, colored vinyl, or bonus tracks.

This can create excitement among fans and encourage them to visit their local record store to purchase the exclusive release. It can also help to strengthen the relationship between the label, the record store, and the fans who support them both.

3. Encourage Your Fans and Followers to Support the Store!

Indie record labels can and should encourage their fanbase to support their local record stores by regularly promoting and sharing information about the stores on social media and through email newsletters.

They can also offer incentives for fans to visit the stores by providing the store(s) with a few free records or stickers for a giveaway.

By emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses and creating a sense of community around physical music, indie record labels can help to keep the independent music scene thriving.

4. Celebrate the Culture of Record Store Day!

Record labels can use social media to celebrate the culture of Record Store Day, vinyl, and record stores in general by sharing photos and videos of in-store events, special releases, and exclusive merchandise.

This can be done more than just locally, celebrate the day on all of your social platforms, even if there’s seemingly nothing in it for you and your record label.

5. Nurture Your Relationship With Your Local Record Store!

Indie record labels can nurture their relationship with their local record store on a year-round basis, and not just on Record Store Day, by supporting the store in various ways.

This includes promoting the store and its events on social media, collaborating on other events throughout the year, offering special deals or discounts to customers who purchase from the store, and partnering on local initiatives that benefit the community.

By working together and supporting each other, indie record labels and stores can create a strong and mutually beneficial relationship that helps to promote the independent music scene and keep the physical music industry alive.