Music Industry Revenues Hit $45.5 Billion, Surpassing Cinema: Global music industry revenues reached $45.5 billion in 2023, surpassing cinema’s pre-pandemic peak of $41.9 billion in 2019. This growth is driven by streaming platforms and the resurgence of vinyl records, according to a report based on data from industry trade bodies. Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music contributed significantly to this growth. Revenues from record labels and artists rose 12% to $28.5 billion, while music publishers and songwriters accounted for about a third of the total revenue. Physical music sales, especially vinyl records, grew faster than streaming revenues. Vinyl sales rose by 15.4%, with U.S. vinyl sales expected to hit $1 billion by the end of 2024, potentially surpassing CD sales.
Los Angeles, CA | 10 Must-Visit Record Stores In Los Angeles For Music Lovers: From iconic vinyls that are almost historical pieces to the latest releases from both alternative and mainstream artists, these record stores have everything a music enthusiast needs. When streaming services first emerged, many predicted the complete extinction of physical music formats. However, several years later, in the 21st century, vinyls, CDs, and cassettes are making a comeback as music stars release unique pieces worthy of any collection. Whether you’re a fan of music, pop culture, movie soundtracks, or just enjoy some retail therapy with a side of melodies, let’s explore the best record stores in Los Angeles.
Chattanooga, TN | Chattanooga record shop faces back-to-back burglaries, lost $1,200 in merchandise: Owners of the local record shop ‘For the Record’ in Chattanooga’s Northgate Mall are urging people to come forward with information about suspects after facing back-to-back burglaries earlier this week. Camera footage at the store shows a man walking into the store on Monday with a woman following close behind. The two browsed through records for a few minutes until the man picked up a stack of records, hid them in his coat, and walked out. The woman followed behind him a few moments later. …Co-owner Mike Bell says one of the store employees, after having witnessed the burglary, ran outside to stop them. “My employee chased them out in a parking lot, and they left in a blue truck, and they were gone,” he says.
New York, NY | The Lo-Down Culture Cast—Gary Guarinello of Catalyst Records: Host Traven Rice spoke with Gary Guarinello, founder of Catalyst Records in Essex Market, for this episode of The Lo-Down Culture Cast. Gary is a drummer and a music lover who is also a former butcher. He was working at The Market Line Food Hall at Ends Meat when he pitched the idea for a record store, which he opened in 2022. When the food hall shut down in the lower level of Essex Market, he moved Catalyst Records upstairs, across from Top Hops Beer Shop, and began hosting live music events, podcasts, and other local art openings and book signings. You can listen to the full episode here or wherever you get your podcasts and you can watch it on our YouTube Channel here. And please subscribe and “like” The Lo-Down Culture Cast, if you are so inclined.
Indianapolis, IN | Indy CD & Vinyl expands Broad Ripple footprint, plans new stage and more live music: A beloved Broad Ripple music store is growing. Indy CD & Vinyl, 606 Broad Ripple Ave., will expand into an adjoining space, effectively doubling its size, creating more room for retail and community programs as well as a place where people can co-work or hang out. The larger footprint will serve as an opportunity to reintroduce a pandemic-era casualty: live performances on an in-store stage. For years, the shop would host signings, meet-and-greets and live performances. Notably, Grammy winning, multiplatinum-selling band Mumford & Sons stopped by for a free set in 2019 before headlining the downtown arena then known as Bankers Life Fieldhouse. But, with social distancing in place because of the pandemic and an increased retail demand, owners Andy and Annie Skinner decided to use the performance space differently.
Bridport, UK | Bridport’s Vinyl Haven: Why Clocktower Records is a must-visit destination record store in Dorset: If you’re a music lover, especially one who has a soft spot for preloved vinyl, you’re in for a treat in Bridport, Dorset. Nestled in this charming market town is Clocktower Records, a destination record store situated in the towns iconic Industrial Heritage area, that has become a local haven for collectors and casual listeners alike. With its extensive collection of classic albums, unique collectibles, CDs and an atmosphere that beckons you to stay awhile, Clocktower Records is not just a store; it’s an experience. At Clocktower Records, the joy of discovery is palpable. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a meticulously curated selection of records, spanning various genres.
Spring, TX | Volume Music marks 5 years in The Woodlands: Family-owned record store Volume Music celebrated five years of business in early November, providing a variety of options for music enthusiasts in The Woodlands area. Volume Music specializes in providing vinyl records, cassettes, CDs and other music merchandise. The owners celebrated the five-year anniversary on Nov. 3 with specials for customers.
VA | Vinyl records comeback continues: 2 stores open in Newport News, Hampton: Vinyl records are making a comeback with two new record stores on the Peninsula. Vince Seidnitzer, owner of Vinny’s Vinyl, describes his store as “an old-school record shop.” Driven by his personal love of vinyl records, he opened the store in March at 1045 J. Clyde Morris Blvd. in Newport News near the York County line. The Peninsula is also home to Bohemian Amigos Record Shop, which opened in January in Hampton. The stores opened as vinyl records continue regaining popularity. Vinyl record revenues grew to $1.4 billion last year, the 17th consecutive year of growth, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. “There’s something about a record—seeing the artwork, sitting back listening to it—that makes it special…”
Fischer, TX | The Record Room Xmas Market at Devil’s Backbone Tavern: Vinyl and Vintage Market. The Vinyl Market hosted by @yardsalerecordstx / @therecordroomtx is BACK and just in time for the holidays so you can scoop up those gifts for those you love. As yall know already this will be a day of vinyl, vintage, music and more an and is ALWAYS a good time so clear your calendar and come join us! Oh and did we mention Gonzo Compadres will be playing too? See, now you HAVE to come! December 8 in the Gas Station. See you there!
