Embarking on a vinyl road trip to explore famous record stores around the world is a thrilling adventure for vinyl enthusiasts and music lovers. Each record store has its own unique character, collection, and atmosphere, making it a worthwhile journey for those seeking rare finds and memorable experiences. Here are some iconic record stores to consider visiting on your vinyl road trip:
1. Amoeba Music – Los Angeles, California, USA:
- Amoeba Music in Hollywood is one of the largest independent record stores in the world. It offers an extensive collection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, and more across multiple genres.
2. Rough Trade East – London, England:
- Rough Trade East, located in London’s Brick Lane, is a renowned record shop and live music venue. It’s a hub for indie and alternative music and features a curated selection of vinyl.
3. Electric Ladyland – Amsterdam, Netherlands:
- Electric Ladyland is a psychedelic-themed record store in Amsterdam known for its vast collection of vinyl, particularly in the realm of psychedelic, rock, and progressive music.
4. Third Man Records – Nashville, Tennessee, USA:
- Founded by Jack White of The White Stripes, Third Man Records is a unique vinyl-centric store and recording studio that offers limited edition vinyl releases.
5. Disk Union – Tokyo, Japan:
- Disk Union is a chain of record stores in Tokyo, known for its wide range of vinyl records, including rare Japanese releases and imports.
6. Rough Trade NYC – Brooklyn, New York, USA:
- Rough Trade’s Brooklyn location is a mecca for vinyl enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of records, live performances, and a coffee shop.
7. Bleecker Street Records – New York City, New York, USA:
- Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Bleecker Street Records has been a fixture of New York’s music scene for decades, offering a diverse collection of vinyl.
8. Flashback Records – London, England:
- Flashback Records, with multiple locations in London, is known for its vintage and rare vinyl finds, spanning various genres and decades.
9. Reckless Records – Chicago, Illinois, USA:
- Reckless Records in Chicago is a must-visit for vinyl collectors, offering a wide range of new and used records across different genres.
10. Mono Records – Melbourne, Australia: – Mono Records in Melbourne is a beloved vinyl destination known for its carefully curated selection and knowledgeable staff.
11. Vinylhub – Various Locations Worldwide: – Consider using Vinylhub, an online community-driven database, to discover and locate record stores in various cities around the world.
12. Record Store Day Events: – Plan your trip around Record Store Day events, which take place worldwide and feature exclusive vinyl releases, live performances, and in-store celebrations.
Before your vinyl road trip, check store hours, and consider reaching out to stores for information on any special events, releases, or promotions during your visit. Don’t forget to explore the local music scene, as you might discover hidden gems beyond the record stores themselves. Happy crate digging!