Vinyl is back and will soon surpass CDs as the best-selling physical music medium. Whether it’s the huge artwork or the warm sound of the needle dropping on your favorite plate of wax, vinyl has something for everyone. In Nashville, there are plenty of places to snag your favorite records. Here are some community favorites:
Grimey’s New and Preloved Music
(Five minute drive from campus)
Grimey’s is Nashville’s biggest place to shop for records. If you’re looking for something specific, chances are they have it. Grimey’s stocks everything from recently released pop and hip-hop to the latest indie crazes and all the cornerstone classic rock records. They also sell CDs and cassettes. Frequently, Grimey’s hosts notable live acts right in the middle of the store. Past acts have included Paramore, Shovels & Rope, and Manchester Orchestra.
In the mood for a little crate digging? Head on over next door to Grimey’s Too, where you can find a plethora of used records waiting to be spun again. Grimey’s Too also stocks a large selection of books, and there’s even a Frothy Monkey attached.
Fond Object Records
(Eight minute drive from campus)
Check out this store’s brand new downtown location for more of a niche variety. Fond Objects is home to records and CDs, but also to some more vintage items including VHS tapes, books, magazines, clothing, furniture and custom jewelry. It’s truly a one-stop shop for all your needs.
Fond Objects also boasts an outdoor music venue, movie theater, and a rescue petting zoo. Take a look at their online calendar and check out a show.
Third Man Records
(Six minute drive from campus)
If you’re looking for something more on the eccentric side, take a trip to Third Man Records. Founded by White Stripes frontman Jack White, Third Man sells hundreds of records off their label. Their store is also full of all sorts of fun trinkets, like a vintage photo booth that uses real film and a machine that’ll cast your very own wax model of Jack White’s guitar. You can even record your own song in a booth, and they’ll instantly press it on a real vinyl record for you to keep.
Third Man also hosts a hodgepodge of concerts and films year round, usually located in their famous “Blue Room.” Past musical performances have included Parquet Courts, The Shins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Conan O’Brian and, of course, Jack White himself. Stand-up comedy shows are fairly frequent and have featured Aziz Ansari and Chris Rock. Check out Third Man’s calendar to stay up-to-date on all their upcoming shows.
Looking for more ways to celebrate vinyl? Head out to your favorite record store every April for Record Store Day to support the indie record store’s staff and culture. There are plenty of limited releases, exclusive concerts and delicious food no matter where you go.