When your other half announced they’re getting up at 5am on a Saturday to queue outside a record shop, you had questions. Mainly: “Why?” and “Can you take the kids with you?”
Well, Saturday 18 April is Record Store Day 2026, and more than 300 independent record shops across the UK will be flinging open their doors from as early as 8am. Hundreds of exclusive, limited?edition vinyl releases will vanish faster than a chocolate biscuit at a PTA meeting. UK vinyl sales hit over 7.5 million units in 2025 – that’s nearly two decades of growth, apparently fuelled by people who miss the crackle of dust on a needle.
But fear not. Even if your personal music collection consists of Disney soundtracks and that one Ed Sheeran album you bought in 2017, help is at hand. I’ve enlisted internationally renowned DJ Sam Young – yes, the man who has spun records for George Clooney, Idris Elba, Jay?Z and Beyoncé – to share his insider tips. And I’ve translated them into mum?speak.
Sam’s golden rule: preparation is everything
Queues start forming in the early hours. Yes, really. Sam says:
“Record Store Day is all about having a strategy. Map out your route, know which shops you’re hitting, and prioritise the ones known for strong exclusives.”
In London, he recommends Honest Jon’s and Phonica – both known for serious collector crowds. His advice?
“Get there early. Queuing is part of the experience and the best records are usually gone by lunchtime.”
So if your beloved is dragging you along, pack snacks. And a flask. And possibly a small stool.
Go in with a game plan
With hundreds of exclusive releases dropping – including this year’s hot tickets from Blur, Charli XCX and Olivia Dean – it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Sam’s tip:
“Have a list ready. Otherwise you’ll get caught up in the moment and could miss what you actually came for.”
Think of it like a supermarket shop after three glasses of wine. You need a list. Or you’ll come home with a limited?edition picture disc of a band you’ve never heard of.
Look beyond the hype
Here’s where Sam gets really clever. The big exclusives are great, but he says:
“Don’t ignore what’s already in the racks. Some of the best finds are things you weren’t even looking for.”
So while everyone else is elbowing each other for that glow?in?the?dark Taylor Swift single, your savvy other half could be digging up a forgotten gem. That’s the vinyl equivalent of finding a tenner in last winter’s coat.
Build your collection beyond Record Store Day
Sam’s advice for the truly dedicated collector? Get out there more than once a year.
“To find the best originals, you need to dig – second?hand shops, record fairs, anywhere with depth. That’s where you’ll uncover something special.”
And if you fancy a holiday with a side of vinyl, he suggests:
“Cities like and New York are incredible for record shopping. You’ll find things there you just won’t see in the UK.”
Closer to home, his go?to London spots include Soul Brother, Alan’s Records and Notting Hill Record Exchange. (Note to self: hide credit card.)
Don’t underestimate the internet
Even in a world of physical digging, the web has its uses.
“Sites like eBay, Vinted and Discogs are invaluable,” says Sam. “If you can’t find a record there, it’s probably genuinely rare.”
He also adds a word of warning:
“Reissues aren’t always better. Sometimes you’re better off tracking down an original pressing – the quality can be completely different.”
So if your partner starts muttering about “original pressings” and “matrix numbers”, just nod and pour them a cup of tea.
More than just a shopping day
Record Store Day is now in its 19th year, and it’s become a global celebration of independent music culture. For Sam, the magic is simple:
“Planning helps but don’t overthink it. The best part of Record Store Day is discovery. Those moments when you find something you didn’t even know you were looking for.”
And honestly? That’s lovely. Even if you’re waiting outside in the drizzle at 7am.
So here’s to the vinyl lovers, the queue?standers, and the mums who pretend to be interested. May your Saturday be filled with great finds, friendly shopkeepers, and – if you’re very lucky – a bacon sandwich from a nearby cafe.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to hide my husband’s wallet.
Lady Rantingham: The unconventional Voice with a bit of sass
Meet Lady Rantingham, a witty and rebellious spirit who brings a fresh twist to the “Rant” theme. While her name might evoke a touch of aristocracy, she’s anything but conventional. With a playful, humorous tone and a slight air of authority, Lady Runtingham is here to run riot on just about anything – especially the things that bother her.
Whether it’s the little annoyances of everyday life or the larger absurdities of the world around her, Lady Runtingham isn’t afraid to call out what grinds her gears. Her rants are filled with sharp wit, unfiltered thoughts, and an unapologetic perspective that blends rebellion with a dash of humour.
Her commentary goes beyond just mockery; she touches on everything from societal quirks to the frustrating intricacies of modern life, all while maintaining a sense of lighthearted authority. Lady Runtingham isn’t just runting about the monarchy — she’s ranting about anything that makes her roll her eyes.
