Record Store Day 2026

If anyone questions the value of music to the UK’s economy, they just need to step into one of the 300 towns around the UK who are lucky enough to be part of Record Store Day 2026.

Andy at David's Music

As they have for nearly 20 years, in 2026, consumers queued for hours - some for days - to get the special edition releases from artists as diverse as Olivia Dean, Peter Gabriel and Taylor Swift, Bill Evans, Chet Baker and Bill Bruford. The rule is that you have to turn up in person, and shops opened as usual on Saturday 18 April to let the queues in.

David’s Music in Letchworth saw its first place staked in the queue at 8am the day before. “It’s always our busiest day of the year, and there was a mixture of regulars and new collectors,” said Managing Director Andy Oates, who has been at David’s for four decades.

”By the time we opened this morning, the queue went as far as the Broadway Cinema - about 250 yards. There’s been a queue all day and people just keep joining the end. Throughout the year, there are special editions and anniversary releases, but Record Store Day always sees some really interesting offerings from popular and niche artists. The record labels are getting really good at encouraging the passion in collectors, especially in attracting younger music fans.”

Since 2007, when American shop owners created Record Store Day, artists and labels have embraced this campaign to celebrate and spread the word about the unique culture that surrounds these special stores. The global word spread the following year and David’s Music has been involved every year.

David’s Bookshop was established in 1963, with a music section from 1964 and a cafe added in 2015. One of the key drivers behind the business then - and now, as an Employee Ownership Trust from 2020 - has been to encourage new ideas and opportunities. It’s a very special place and David’s Music remains a highly respected and active part of the local community - every day of the year.

Jack at JP's Records

Joining the record store community early in 2026 - but too late for the Record Store Day official activities - is JP’s Records in neighbouring Hitchin. Embracing the same ethos of making the most of opportunities, Owner Jack Perry laid on a series of live musicians to encourage customers. “It’s been a really busy day and we’ve had plenty of great vinyl for everyone to enjoy, even if they’re not the special Record Store Day releases.”

Wherever you are, support your local record store and the wider music industry