Happy Record Store Day everyone! It’s time to support your local independent record store, pop on your favourite vinyl and have a good old boogie! With exclusive RSD releases there is always something special to get your hands on, we’re eyeing up that Destiny’s Child picture disk.
It's the perfect day to throw some shapes in our Record Player Necklace.
We’ve tapped up three of our favourite Independent record shops from different cities across the world to give us their expert opinion on their top vinyl pick by a female artist. We’re all about supporting girls!
First up we’re flying over to the States with Miami based Sweat Records. Opened in 2005, Sweat Records is an independent, female-owned music store, coffee shop and event space.
Sweat’s RSD Pick: Robyn - Robyn 2LP
Owner and self proclaimed ‘record nerd’ Lolo shared her RSD pick!
What should our fans get their hands on this Record Store Day?
We are massive Robyn fans here at Sweat and this is the 1st issue of her 2005 self-titled album on 180g coloured vinyl.
How have you been coping without live music during the pandemic?
A Miami show of hers had to be postponed but we’ve still been loving her “Club DOMO” streaming sets during quarantine!
Between 8am and 8pm browse your fave records while bopping along to in-store DJs and nibbling on bomb vegan cookies. Not in the US? Don’t sweat it you can browse online here!
From the Florida coast to the British coast! The lovely Lewes is home to Union Music Store, run by dynamic duo Del and Danny. Head to Union Record if you have taste for the adventurous side of the recording industry or for a sift through pre-loved gems and cool collectables.
What is your must have record this year?
Stone cold 70's soul classic, Loleatta Holloway's exquisite 'Cry To Me’. Featuring songs from the likes of Sam Dees and Curtis Mayfield this is an album that reads like a menu card to the best soul restaurant in town. Holloway is at the top of her game alongside a band from the major league on a record that leaves you truly shaken and stirred. Unmissable!
How are you celebrating RSD instore?
For RSD we are open from 8aM to 4pm and are really looking forward to our favourite day of the year. All in a safe, friendly, socially distanced way of course. We hope the independents have a GREAT day!!
Can’t make it in person? Have a virtual vinyl haul here after 6pm!
Last but not least we’re bringing it back to our East London roots. In the vibrant Mare Street Market you’ll find an 80’s dole office full to the brim with the best new releases and reissues. Stranger Than Paradise Records is run by pals and previous record store colleagues Noreen, Phil and Sonny.
No you aren’t having deja vu, it seems 'Cry To Me' is an absolute must have for Record Store Day 2020. Stranger Than’s Sonny gave us their hot take on the hottest record.
Tell us a bit about Loleatta Holloway’s Cry to Me.
Holloway is best known for her endlessly sampled disco hits, but in 1975 she displayed her raw talent and power in full on this incredible LP. It's a show-stopping collection of songs, many written and arranged by the great Sam Dees (including an astonishing version of 'The Show Must Go On') and one penned by Curtis Mayfield, with fantastic production by Floyd Smith. But of course, front and centre is Holloway's stunning, ultra-emotive voice, no doubt a result of her background singing gospel with her mother.
What makes this record SO special?
This Saturday will be the first time the album has been officially available on vinyl since its original release, so definitely not to be missed!
Don’t be a stranger and head down to Hackney between 8am and 4pm! Not found your wish list item in your local? Any remaining records will be online at 6pm.
We’ve set our alarm bright and early and are on our way to our local independents! Find a record store near you here.