Record Store Day 2023 is here, and we’ve done the legwork for you. We want to make it easy for you to get involved.
Let’s start with the history. Record Store Day started in 2007, when a handful of independent record store owners came together to celebrate the unique culture celebrated in and around record shops not only in the United States but around the world. In the last decade and a half, the event has grown year after year into a truly international affair, with locations participating globally.
Each year, usually in February, Record Store Day announces their slate of special releases for the year. When the 2023 releases were announced, we rounded up 40 big ones that would generally be considered “rock” titles. You can dig into that list here. If you want to dig into the full list of 2023 releases, the RSD website has that curated here.
Speaking of lists, the powers that be at RSD keep a master list of every participating store. There’s a disclaimer, however. With the vast number of special releases and promotions that encompass Record Store Day, not every store chooses to or is even able to carry everything. So make sure you check with the store you’re visiting before you visit and make sure they have what you’re looking for. You can start by searching here.
Record Store Day 2023: 23 Boston-Area Record Stores to Hit
Since it’s 2023, I decided to single out 23 Boston-area record stores that are worthy of a visit. If you’re into hardcore and metal, Armageddon in Cambridge is the spot for you. Punk rockers should head to Shred City Music in Wilmington. And if indie rock and emo is your cup of tea, I suggest Wanna Hear It in Watertown. Support your local independent record store and happy Record Store Day to you!
