5 Stores Where Vinyl Records Rock

Beyoncé’s latest album? A vintage Led Zeppelin LP? Find these and more great tunes at Bergen’s record shops.
Cheryl De Leon,
2 Stores Vinyl

 

In today’s digital age, isn’t it ironic that many music lovers are turning to old-school records to hear their favorite artists? Though still far from the days when Thriller or Rumours first rocked the charts, vinyl record sales continue to rise. In fact, records account for more than 70 percent of physical format revenues, says the Recording Industry Association of America.

With that in mind, chain stores like Barnes & Noble and FYE have expanded their stocks of records for sale. And while many independent retailers in Bergen County also offer the latest albums, they have large collections of vintage and gently used records as well.

Looking for old recordings by Charlie Parker or Count Basie? Classic from The Beatles or Pink Floyd? A pop smash by Madonna or a demo from Elvis Presley’s vault? It’s likely you’ll find what you want at one of the following Bergen shops. Visit them any day, when the mood for music strikes or wait for National Record Store Day, happening later this month.

  • EZ 2 Collect, Elmwood Park. Their extensive collection includes new and used records, CDs, movies and an assortment of music collectibles and memorabilia.
    *133 Broadway, 201.791.3833
  • Music Country, Cliffside Park. Believed to be one of the oldest record stores in the tri-state area, the 90-year-old shop boasts a wide variety of musical genres in record, CD and cassette formats. Music posters, patches and instruments are also available.
    *728 Anderson Ave., 201.943.1045
  • Music Merchants, Westwood. Fans of this neighborhood favorite are mourning the loss of longtime owner John Schlapak, who passed away last month. As of now, the beat still goes on at the store, which features new and used records as well as CDs and cassettes.
    *157 Westwood Ave., 201.666.7777
  • The Record King, Hackensack. Find classic records—LPs and 45s—as well as novelty items and collectibles at this popular store in downtown Hackensack.
    *303 Main Street, 201.488.4232
  • Soldato Books & Records, Rutherford. The Williams Center is booming with life thanks to a new ice cream shop and other recent additions, but this independent record store is still one of the main draws. They offer dozens of shelves filled with classic records as well as today’s top sellers.
    *15 Sylvan St., Rutherford, 551.243.1859

Where do you go to purchase new (and old) music? Tell us about it on Instagram @bergenmagnj.

 

Categories: Bergen Health & Life