Celebrating 15 Years of RSD Black Friday: A Vinyl Lover’s Delight

As the holiday shopping season kicks off, music enthusiasts have a special date circled on their calendars: Black Friday, or more specifically, Record Store Day (RSD) Black Friday. This unique celebration of vinyl has grown significantly since its inception 15 years ago, evolving from a niche occurrence into a must-visit event for die-hard record collectors and casual fans alike.

The Growth of RSD Black Friday

Founded in 2008, Record Store Day quickly captured the hearts of music lovers. While the April event attracts the largest crowd and a plethora of releases, Black Friday has carved out a dedicated space for itself. This year, approximately 175 exclusive titles will be available, marking the evolution of RSD Black Friday since its establishment in 2010. Michael Kurtz, co-founder of RSD, notes that the curated selection aims to provide holiday gifting options for music fans, striving for a balance between quantity and quality.

A Treasure Trove of Exclusive Releases

This year’s RSD Black Friday promises to be particularly exciting, with record labels digging deep into their archives to offer unique and limited releases. From indie darlings to iconic legends, this year’s lineup includes exclusive titles from diverse artists like Cage the Elephant, Billie Eilish, Dr. Dre, and Talking Heads. Kurtz emphasizes that the tangible connection of owning music continues to resonate with fans, encouraging them to step into local record shops and celebrate.

Spotlight on Select Titles

Among the impressive list of releases, Billboard has highlighted twelve standout titles worth keeping an eye on:

1. Icona Pop feat. Charli xcx, “I Love It” (EP, 4,400 copies)

   • This glow-in-the-dark vinyl features various remixes of the infectious hit, sure to delight fans who recall its catchy hooks from club nights and TV screens alike.

2. OTTTO, Sweaty Pool (EP, 500 copies)

   • Emerging rock trio OTTTO, featuring Tye Trujillo, is set to release this limited vinyl edition showcasing a powerful new direction in their music.

3. Van Halen, Live at Wembley 1995 (LP, 6,000 copies)

   • A recording from a pivotal tour, this release presents a unique live collection that showcases the band’s energy and versatility during their infamous Wembley Stadium concert.

4. Billy Joel, Live From Long Island (3LP, 1,500 copies)

   • This beloved concert has been remixed and released as a standalone album for the first time, capturing Joel’s charisma and timeless hits.

5. Alan Silvestri: The Back to the Future Trilogy (LP, 1,900 copies)

   • Celebrating the 40th anniversary of this iconic movie, this score collection will transport fans back in time with its exhilarating tracks.

6. Bob Dylan: The Original Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan (LP, 13,000 copies)

   • Fans can rediscover Dylan’s defining album in its original format, featuring a tracklist that reflects a time of intense creativity for the artist.

7. Ronnie D’Addario: Written by Ronnie D’Addario (LP, 1,400 copies)

   • A heartfelt tribute to the elder D’Addario’s memorable songwriting, featuring contributions from his musician sons and some surprise guests.

8. Fleetwood Mac: Live 1975 (2LP, 5,000 copies)

   • Celebrating 50 years of the Buckingham-Nicks era, this vinyl captures Fleetwood Mac at a pivotal moment in their career.

9. Post Malone: Long Bed (LP, 5,000 copies)

   • Stripping down the noise, this vinyl allows Post Malone’s songwriting talent to shine through without the distraction of guest artists.

10. Chappell Roan: “The Subway”/”The Giver” (7″ vinyl, 30,000 copies)

    • This format presents two popular singles by the rising star, offering a glimpse into her unique storytelling style.

11. Linda Perry: In Flight (LP, 1,100 copies)

    • Linda Perry’s long-overdue solo debut makes its return to vinyl, providing a platform for her artistry and introspective lyrics.
12. Bad Brains: Live at the Bayou (2LP, 2,500 copies)
    • Captured during two explosive shows in D.C., this release highlights the band before they surged into the music scene, showcasing their ferociously raw energy.

The Vinyl Renaissance

RSD Black Friday is not just about shopping; it’s a celebration of community and culture. The enduring love for vinyl records reflects a broader trend of nostalgia and appreciation for physical media in an age dominated by digital streaming. Music fans are drawn to the tactile experience of handling LPs, savoring the large-scale artwork, and enjoying the meticulous sound quality that vinyl provides.

Michael Kurtz emphasizes, “It demonstrates how much music fans support and love record stores,” highlighting how these events foster connections between fans and the music they cherish. As the holiday season approaches, RSD Black Friday offers a unique opportunity to experience this passion firsthand while supporting local businesses.

With such an eclectic array of releases on the horizon, this year’s RSD Black Friday is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for music lovers everywhere. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the vinyl scene, mark your calendars and prepare to explore the treasures waiting at your local record store.