Record Store Day: Why Vinyl Shops Remain Relevant in the Streaming Age

m Princeton University. He said the store’s success lies in its adaptability to changing times and customers: “We’re not just a record store anymore. We’ve diversifying into CDs, DVDs, and even vinyl. We try to have something for every kind of music fan.”Independence offers store owners the freedom to adapt to the changing music landscape: from vinyl resurgence to more niche genres like jazz or hip-hop, a great record store is always evolving to meet the wants and needs of its customers.4: Community-centered spacesAt Cactus Music in Houston, owner Quinn Bishop says cultivating relationships with customers is key: “We’re not just selling a product, we’re selling a lifestyle. We’re part of the cultural enrichment of the city.”Touring bands often come to Cactus for in-store appearances, making the shop a gathering space for music fans. And the store also supports local artists by selling their merchandise and sometimes even hosting their releases. “We want to be a community hub,” Bishop said. “People come in to see what’s happening in music, get recommendations, even have a drink at our cafe.”This focus on community and connection is a hallmark of great record stores, making them not just places to buy music but also spaces to engage with like-minded individuals and share in the love of music.3: Knowledgeable and passionate staffAt Seismic Records in Vancouver, owner Brian Tarling says his staff’s love and knowledge of music set the store apart: “We’re out there getting the esoteric, unique stuff . . . so we get a lot of DJs, a lot of music lovers [shopping here].”That passion and expertise are what drives customers to come back. At Amoeba Music, Henderson said, “The staff are music lovers. They all do different DJ gigs around town. They live and breed music.”A dedicated and knowledgeable staff can make visiting a record store not just a transactional experience, but a chance to connect with others who share your musical passion and deepen your appreciation for music across genres and eras.2: Support for emerging artists and labelsAt Third Man Records in Nashville, founded by musician Jack White, the store promotes its own label along with other independent and emerging artists. Pete Ass, marketing director for both Third Man Records and Jack White’s label, Third Man Pressing, said, “We work closely to sell a lot of titles that we may not necessarily have a financial stake in, but we want to see [the artists] supported and in the spotlight in terms of sales.”The store’s commitment to promoting new artists and labels is what sets it apart and draws in customers looking for something fresh and unique. By supporting emerging talent, record stores not only contribute to the music industry but also offer customers the chance to discover something new and exciting.1: Connection to music history and heritageAt Amoeba Music in Hollywood, there’s a sense of music history that can’t be replicated online. The store has hosted performances by everyone from Paul McCartney to Fiona Apple. “Can you imagine Brandy Carlile just breaking out into ‘The Joke’? Full band just crushing it. That’s something we get to see that most people have to get tickets for,” Henderson said.Record stores often offer customers the chance to experience music in a different way, with live performances, meet-and-greets, and exclusive releases that can’t be found online. These connections to music history make record stores not just a place to buy music, but a destination to immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of musical culture.So, whether you’re a seasoned collector or looking to start your vinyl journey, consider what makes a record store great: independence, community, knowledgeable staff, support for emerging artists, and a connection to music history. These qualities are what keep brick-and-mortar record stores thriving in the digital age, offering music fans a unique and engaging experience that can’t be replicated online.