Unlock the Hottest Exclusives at Record Store Day 2024!
The much-anticipated Record Store Day 2024 is just around the corner on April 20, and this year’s event promises a treasure trove of exclusive releases spanning various genres. With approximately 387 different titles set to hit the shelves of participating shops nationwide, music enthusiasts are gearing up to get their hands on physical music products, underlining the enduring appeal and significance of owning music in physical formats amidst the digital streaming era.
In a definitive sign of the resurgence of vinyl, the music industry recorded a remarkable 14.2 percent increase in vinyl sales in 2023, with a total of 49.61 million units sold. This marked the highest annual sales for vinyl records since data tracking began in 1991 by Luminate, showcasing the enduring allure of analog music formats. Not to be left behind, even CDs have seen a modest uptick in sales, reinforcing the enduring appeal of physical music collections in the digital age.
As the anticipation builds for this year’s Record Store Day, music enthusiasts are eagerly scanning through the list of exclusive titles that will be up for grabs, ranging from vinyl records to CDs and even electronics. With an overwhelming array of choices available, Billboard has curated a list of must-have picks to help streamline the shopping experience for avid music collectors.
Among the standout releases for this year’s Record Store Day is a unique 7″ single featuring pop stars Olivia Rodrigo and Noah Kahan covering each other’s hit songs, recorded live at BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge. The limited edition pressing is set to be a prized possession for fans of these two chart-topping artists.
Paramore, serving as this year’s official Record Store Day ambassadors, will be releasing a special remix edition of their Grammy-winning album “This Is Why,” in various vinyl formats. This exclusive release promises a fresh take on the band’s acclaimed swansong album.
Fans of Fetty Wap can rejoice as the rapper’s acclaimed self-titled debut album from 2015 makes a return to vinyl in a special limited edition pressing. With additional bonus tracks and a unique opaque violet vinyl color, this release is a must-have for hip-hop aficionados.
Icelandic-American singer Laufey’s “A Night at the Symphony” offers a delightful blend of traditional pop sensibilities coupled with intricate orchestral arrangements, making for a captivating live album experience. Recorded with the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, this release showcases Laufey’s versatile musicality in a stunning physical format.
Wilco fans are in for a treat with the expanded edition of their acclaimed album “The Whole Love,” featuring rare bonus tracks and live performances from the band’s legendary Chicago studio sessions. This deluxe vinyl set is a collector’s dream for aficionados of the indie-rock stalwarts.
Gospel legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s unearthed live concert recording from a 1966 show in France is a priceless addition to any music collection. With soulful renditions of her iconic songs, this limited edition vinyl release pays homage to the pioneering artist’s electrifying live performances.
Jazz composer Vince Guaraldi’s original soundtrack recording for the animated Peanuts TV special “It Was a Short Summer, Charlie Brown” receives a long-awaited vinyl release. Featuring previously unheard tracks and detailed liner notes, this release is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of the beloved Peanuts franchise.
Hip-hop enthusiasts can relive the magic of a classic De La Soul concert with the release of “Live at Tramps, NYC, 1996.” This energetic live recording captures the essence of the iconic hip-hop group at the peak of their prowess, making it a must-have for fans of the genre.
Talking Heads’ seminal 1977 live concert recording from WCOZ is finally receiving a comprehensive vinyl release, showcasing the band’s early career highlights in stunning fidelity. With previously unreleased live versions of classic tracks, this release is a testament to the band’s unparalleled live performances.
Finally, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of The Beatles’ iconic appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, a limited edition RSD3 turntable featuring four 3-inch records of the band’s live performances is set to be a coveted collector’s item. Packaged in a stylish Beatles carrying case, this special release is a fitting tribute to one of the most legendary moments in music history.
As Record Store Day 2024 approaches, music enthusiasts can look forward to a diverse array of exclusive releases that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a vinyl aficionado, a CD collector, or an electronics enthusiast, this year’s event promises something special for every music lover. With a rich tapestry of genres and artists represented in the lineup, Record Store Day 2024 is shaping up to be a celebration of the enduring appeal of physical music formats in an increasingly digital world.
