Indie stores worldwide unite for Record Store Day

Photo: graciepoo on flickr

When I was younger, most kids were hanging around at the park on their free time, or maybe immersing themselves in some Grand Theft Auto. But when I wasn’t hanging out with my friends or playing sports, I was begging my parents to take me to my haven, the local Tower Records, so I could flip through the endless rows of glistening jewel cases in hopes to find something that struck my attention. This, sadly, is an experience alien to most kids these days; an experience that defined the greater part of my childhood, but will most likely never be realized by the youth of the future.

Record Store Day is here to change that. Record Store Day is this Saturday, April 17, and is an annual celebration where independent record stores all over the world unite to honor music, musicians and record store counterculture. It also serves as a reminder to the general public that record stores indeed still exist, and are still standing while combating the growing threats of low sales and music downloading.

London's Rough Trade is one of the most prominent international supporters of Record Store Day. Photo: donnierobot on flickr

It has become something of a 4^th of July for the music world, with top artists making appearances at local stores, and record labels pressing limited edition CDs and vinyl to be sold just for the day. (A full list of this year’s releases can be viewed here.) Although only in its third year, Record Store Day has expanded from the 700+ independent stores across the United States to international stores, with shops in major music markets like the UK, Japan, and Sweden contributing to the cause.

Here in San Luis Obispo, Boo Boo Records will be celebrating the day by offering live performances every hour on the hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. These shows are completely free of charge. Artists appearing include The Northstar Session, Jade Jackson, Ghostporn, and Threes & Nines. A full list of artists performing can be found on Boo Boo Records’ official Facebook page. SLO’s perennial music store will also be offering free silk screening and exclusive giveaways throughout the day.

If you haven’t stepped foot in a record store in a while, Record Store Day is the perfect day to change that. If you’re looking for something new to listen to, I encourage you to see what Boo Boo’s has to offer. You’ll be surprised at the gems you can find with just a quick browse and a little motivation.

Boo Boo Records is located at 978 Monterey St., downtown SLO.

Record Store Day hours: Saturday, April 17, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information on everything Record Store Day, check out the official event website.