People, Places, and Things To Check Out This Record Store Day

Record Store Day is almost upon us! As always, it brings with it exclusive releases, live performances, and plenty of reasons to get out and support your local shops. Whether you’re looking to go deep dive for some unique vinyl, see some magical performances, or are just here for the vibes, there’s something for everyone this Record Store Day. This year, there’s so much going on, but we’ve got a few in particular we’re especially looking forward to. Without further ado, here are some iconic people, places, and things to check out on this annual record-lover’s holiday…

People, Places, and Things To Check Out This Record Store Day

Two Must-Have Releases for Your Collection

This year, we’re excited to have not one, but two official Record Store Day releases from Symphonic artists in the mix!

The Meters – Live At Great American Music Hall, San Francisco // Get ready for a funk-filled journey with The Meters live in 1975. This legendary performance features the band at the height of their powers, with extended jams and tracks from their best albums, Rejuvenation and Fire On The Bayou. Finally available on vinyl, this special Mardi Gras-colored pressing brings the full show to your turntable for the first time ever.

Wang Chung – Everybody Have Fun Tonight (Limited Edition 10” Orange Vinyl) // Celebrate the iconic Wang Chung sound with this limited-edition 10” orange vinyl. Featuring an electrifying remix of Everybody Have Fun Tonight by Eric Kupper, plus rare live performances from El Mocambo, this vinyl is a must-have for any fan. Only available for Record Store Day 2025, and it includes a signed postcard to make it extra special.

Both of these releases are RSD exclusives, so you’ll need to head to a participating record store on April 12th to get one for yourself.

Catch Dead Gowns Live in Portland, Maine

If you’re celebrating Record Store Day in Portland, Maine, be sure to stop by Bull Moose Music for a live in-store performance by Dead Gowns (@voila_deadgowns). Known for their raw and emotionally rich sound, Dead Gowns bring a layered, lo-fi charm that hits even harder in person. This is a chance to see a rising artist up close, surrounded by fellow music lovers, in one of the state’s most iconic record stores. 🖤

Gorillaz – Live from the Apollo Theater

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Demon Days, Gorillaz are dropping something special for fans this Record Store Day: the first-ever vinyl release of their iconic 2006 live performance at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. Backed by a full band and surprise guests, the group performed the entire Demon Days album, including bangers like “Feel Good Inc.,” “DARE,” “Dirty Harry,” and “Kids with Guns.”

Pressed on limited-edition red vinyl, this exclusive 2LP set comes in a gatefold sleeve and will only be available at participating Record Store Day retailers on April 12, 2025. With just 6,500 copies in circulation, this one’s definitely worth getting in line early for.

Rough Trade’s Expanded New York Store // New York City, New York

This Record Store Day, Rough Trade is making waves in New York City with the expansion of its iconic store at Rockefeller Center. Known for its commitment to vinyl culture, Rough Trade is unveiling Rough Trade Below, a spacious new 4,000-square-foot venue that promises to be a must-visit for music lovers.

Located directly beneath the rink level at Rockefeller Center, Rough Trade Below will offer an expanded selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, exclusive artist merchandise, and more. What’s more, the space features a built-in stage that can host up to 300 guests, creating an exciting venue for intimate live performances, in-store events, and album signings. This makes it a prime spot for fans to experience live music while browsing through a vast collection of vinyl treasures.

If you happen to be in New York City for Record Store Day, be sure to stop by!

Sweat Records – Miami, Florida

Celebrate Record Store Day 2025 with one of Miami’s most iconic indie shops, Sweat Records! From 9 AM to 7 PM, the store will be alive with exclusive vinyl releases, all-day DJ sets, local food favorites, and more. Doors officially open at 10 AM, but anyone in line before 9 AM gets the chance to “call” one exclusive release that’ll be held for them while supplies last. The day will feature a special merch drop in collaboration with Kawaii Universe, along with vinyl DJ sets from Rat Bastard, Rum & Coke, House of Pris, DJ Hottpants, and Zac. Food-wise, Oori Bakeshop will be serving up breakfast sandwiches, shokupan, and their signature poptarts, and the Mr. Kream hip-hop pops ice cream truck will be on-site from 12-6 PM. For those 21 and up, complimentary Estrella Damm beer will be available. 🍦🍻

Sweat encourages fans to reach out starting Wednesday, April 9, to check on specific titles they’ve received. As always, RSD exclusives are first come, first served with a one-copy-per-title limit. Whether you’re coming for the vinyl, the vibes, or both, this celebration in Little Haiti is a can’t-miss! Be sure to reserve your spot right here.

Criminal Records – Atlanta, Georgia

If you’re in Atlanta for Record Store Day, Criminal Records in Little Five Points is the place to be. A staple of the local music scene since 1991, this iconic shop is celebrating RSD 2025 with exclusive releases, a 20% discount on all comics, and a live in-store performance from indie pop legends The Ocean Blue at 2:30 PM. Doors open bright and early at 8:00 AM, and you can expect giveaways, community vibes, and a packed day of crate-digging and celebration!

Mojo Books & Records – Tampa, Florida

Mojo Books & Records is going all out for Record Store Day on Saturday, April 12th, with doors open bright and early from 8AM to 8PM. This beloved Tampa gem is known for its killer selection of vinyl, eclectic books, and cozy in-store coffee bar. Expect a full day of crate-digging, exclusive RSD releases, and good vibes all around. They’re even closing early the night before to get everything ready, so you know they’re taking it seriously. Keep an eye on their IG @mojobooksandrecords for updates as the big day gets closer.

Some final notes…

Show your love and support for your local record stores this Saturday, April 12th! Whether you’re on the hunt for exclusive releases or simply enjoying the vibrant energy, it’s all about celebrating the music community.

📌 Check out the full list of RSD releases: RSD List

📌 Visit the official Record Store Day website: Record Store Day Home

Share your experience!

🎬 Use the hashtags: #RSD2025 | #RSD25 | #RecordStoreDay2025

🔊 Don’t forget to tag: @recordstoreday on Twitter, Facebook, and BlueSky // @recordstoredayus on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok

Happy crate digging, music lovers! 🎶