The history of record store day

Ben Holmes April 15, 2026 8:13 am Last Updated on April 15, 2026 8:13 am

DROP THE NEEDLE!

Record Store Day was created back in 2007 to shine a spotlight on independently owned record stores at a time when many were struggling to survive. The idea was to get people buying local and buying music in a format that you could hold in your hand.

Since then, vinyl has exploded in popularity and continues to be in high demand all over the country. According to Music Canada, vinyl revenue reached US$56.5 million in 2023, up 30.2% year over year.

Statistics Canada says that 13% of all sound recordings are on vinyl, which is a big chunk!

In Canada, Record Store Day releases often include:

Special colour vinyl pressings
Live albums and rare recordings
Reissues of classic albums
Canadian‑only or Canada‑exclusive titles

Next Saturday, get flipping at a local record shop!

Ben Holmes

Ben Holmes has lived on the South Shore of Nova Scotia for most of his life and has a deep passion for the culture and community of Nova Scotia and the Maritimes. He believes strongly in the importance of radio and other local media, and the role they play in keeping communities informed, connected, and entertained.
He is the host of “Breakfast With Ben” on CKBW in Bridgewater. When he is not talking, at least not into a microphone, Ben enjoys spending time outdoors, cycling, watching films, taking road trips, and being around family and friends.

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