Snag limited releases, giveaways, and more at your friendly neighborhood record store.
Record Store Day began in 2008 as an ode to local record stores and the culture surrounding buying, hearing, and appreciating records. On Saturday, April 13, independent record stores are celebrating all over the country with exclusive releases, in-store performances, giveaways, and more. As their punk scene would suggest, D.C. knows a thing or two about good music and good record stores. So whether you're looking to grab that LP from Broken Social Scene, catch live music, or just scour some records, the District will have what you need.
Here are the best places to celebrate Record Store Day in DC:
D.C. band Ex Hex performing in-store, courtesy of Facebook
Crooked Beat Records
Formerly in Adams Morgan, Crooked Beat Records now resides in Alexandria and specializes in everything from indie records to major-label releases. On Saturday they'll be carrying those anticipated special releases along with their regular selection of punk, indie, reggae, jazz -- you name it. Customers looking to get there early can enter their "Golden Ticket" contest that will allow two non-frequent customers early access into the store on Record Store Day! Just drop by the store and enter your name and email address (in-store only). Winners will be chosen on Tuesday, April 9. Check their Facebook for updates.
Courtesy of Songbyrd Music House
Songbyrd Music House & Record Cafe
As "Washington's Finest Music House," it's a no-brainer Songbyrd will be RSD-ready. Along with this year's special releases, visitors will have a chance to score ticket giveaways and swag, and enjoy libations from Right Proper Brewing Company. They'll be hosting live music all afternoon from local artists. Catch setlists from Two Ton Twig, Elena & Los Fulanos, Priests, and more. Festivities begin at 8 a.m., so it's not too early to get the party started. Check out their Facebook for more details.
Courtesy of Hill & Dale Records
Hill & Dale Records
For those who enjoy curating their vinyl collections, Hill & Dale is the place for you. They offer an extensive selection of new releases and reissues, along with knowledgeable staff who can help with any record-related needs. The Georgetown shop will post their inventory of special releases 2-3 days before RSD, but quantities are limited so they will not take advance orders. As availability will be on a first-come, first-serve basis, we recommend arriving early so you can get what you want. Check their website for more information.
Courtesy of Facebook
Records and Rarities
Located half an hour outside D.C., this vintage boutique carries a wide selection of records as well as skateboards, video games, and other collectibles. On Saturday grab the RSD exclusives and enjoy a 10 percent discount on all used vinyl in the store. Their Tysons Corner Center location will host a signing with Masta Ace & Marco Polo for their 7-inch single "E.A.T." only for Record Store Day. Tickets start at $25. You can buy them here. Plus there will be free coffee and Cinnabon at both locations to fuel up on while you shop. Check out their website for more information.
Courtesy of Facebook
Record Exchange Silver Spring
Record Exchange's MO is "rad music for rad people," and it shows in their edgy selection of punk, metal, and hip-hop. On Saturday, score some freebies with any purchase of an RSD special release -- just show up early before the store's doors open at 9:30 a.m. There will also be an in-store show featuring local acts The Periwinkles, Kate!@%, and Mojo Bozo's Electric Circus. The show will start at 6 p.m., and all ages are welcome. Check their Facebook for more details.
Record Store Day is Saturday, April 13, 2019. View the full list of special releases here. Availability may depend on the store, so we recommend contacting the store directly if you're looking for something specific.
Will you be attending any Record Store Day events? Seeking out any special releases? Tell us in the comments!
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