Originally created by the retail organization the Department of Record Stores in 2007 to “celebrate the culture of the independently owned record store,” this annual celebration of independent record stores takes place every April across the country. The event has grown to include record stores in 11 other countries.
Here are some of our favorite Record Store Day destinations right here in Louisville.
Better Days Records
921 Barret Ave.The 17th Record Store Day at Better Days Records promises more than 5,000 titles for sale. Among these are LPs, 12″ vinyl singles, 45 RPMs, CDs, and cassette tapes at 25% off. The Germantown shop will be amped with a live broadcast by LRS102.com, a live performance by MachineMan, a pop-up vintage toy shop, and chances to win tickets to Louder Than Life 2024 throughout the day. Better Days Records via FacebookBook and Music Exchange
1616 Bardstown Rd.In addition to vinyl albums, this Highlands media emporium sells books, comic books, DVDs, video game consoles, video games, and collectibles. There is literally something for every kind of connoisseur and geek here. Book and Music ExchangeElectric Ladyland
2325 Bardstown Rd.A hybrid smoke shop, metaphysical supply, and record store located in the Highlands, Electric Ladyland has been an eccentric destination since 1978. Come for the vinyl albums, stay for the kaleidoscopic array of other items you never knew you needed. Electric LadylandGreat Escape
2433 Bardstown Rd.Celebrate Record Store Day at this Highlands treasure trove, featuring giveaways and special prices on vinyl albums all day, as well as an eclectic inventory of new and used comics, graphic novels, toys, models, and local art every day. The Great Escape via FacebookGuestroom Records
1806 Frankfort Ave.The shop in Clifton that recently partnered with Jack Harlow Foundation to give away 100 records and record players to Louisville kids will open three hours early at 9 a.m. on Record Store Day. The line will form with the first person who arrives and will continue west on Frankfort Ave (toward the river). Their inventory would be worth waiting for on a regular business day, and their Record Store Day selections will be similarly excellent. Guestroom RecordsKevin’s Records
947 E Breckinridge St.Situated inside the Fleur De Flea Vintage Market, Kevin’s Records has bins upon bins of vinyl albums that cover a broad range of musical eras and styles. Kevin's RecordsMatt Anthony’s Record Shop
536 Baxter Ave.Owner Matt Anthony is the host of Friday Night Sound Clash on WFPK and his vinyl shop, located between Phoenix Hill and Highlands is a must-visit on Record Store Day. Matt Anthony's Record Shop via XSurface Noise
600 Baxter Ave.Surface Noise offers a thoughtfully curated selection of vinyl albums in excellent condition as well as a selection of gently used — and occasionally rare — books, including a vinyl listening room full of vintage paperbacks. Linger in the plush carpeted shop for the art gallery space and for the always engaging conversation of owner Brett Ralph. Surface Noise via FacebookUnderground Sounds
1006 Barret Ave.After 28 years, this will be the last Record Store Day for Underground Sounds at their Germantown location. Owner Craig Rich will be bringing inventory out of his back supply rooms and his personal collection for this “goodbye for now” occasion. Underground Sounds via Facebook
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Aria Baci is a writer and critic who has been working in print and digital media since 2015 for outlets as varied as Design*Sponge, Geeks OUT, Flame Con, and The Mary Sue. She is passionate about literature,...
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