MY SOHO TIMESThe Beat Goes On: Soho’s Vinyl Heritage and Your 2026 Record Store Day Guide| My Soho Times
Long before it was the backdrop for the iconic Oasis ‘Morning Glory’ cover, Soho’s Berwick Street was known globally as the “Golden Mile of Vinyl“. At its peak in the 1990s, this single stretch of road hosted more than 20 independent record stores, nestled between fruit stalls and the area’s infamous neon signs.
According to artist and cultural commentator, Joel Peter Levack, 122 different record shops have called the wider Soho area home between 1949 and 1999. While the “digital revolution” and rising rents thinned the ranks, the shops that remain are more than just retailers — they are the keepers of Soho’s musical soul.
On Saturday 18 April 2026 – that history comes alive again for Record Store Day. Here is your ultimate guide to navigating the crates of Soho.
The Early Bird: 8:00 AM Openings
The most sought-after limited releases are strictly first-come, first-served.
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Located at 75 Berwick Street, this legend opens at 8:00 am. They are stocking major exclusives from David Bowie, Charli XCX, and Elton John. Expect a queue, but the curated crates of second-hand gems in the basement make the wait worth it.
Sounds of the Universe
Head to 7 Broadwick Street for the best in Reggae, Soul, and Jazz. As the home of Soul Jazz Records, it’s an essential stop for rare world music.
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The Experience: DJs and Live Music
Phonica Records
- Poland Street’s electronic hub is partnering with Waterworks Festivaland Jubel for an all-dayer. Expect secret guest DJs across the shop floor and basement, plus free fruity brews for the crowd.
Third Man Records
- Jack White’s Soho outpost at 1 Marshall Street will feature live music in its “Blue Basement”. Don’t miss their token-operated recording booth for a truly analogue souvenir.
Reckless Records
- The oldest shop on Berwick Street (est. 1984) is a must for high-end second-hand rarities. It’s the quintessential “digger’s” shop.
The After-Party: Soho Sounds
- Kingly Court: From 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, Soho Radio takes over the court for a free live residency featuring Gigi Wilde and All Caps Radio.
- The Blue Posts: Catch the POV vinyl mini-festival on Berwick Street from 3:00 pm.
Written by the My Soho Times Lifestyle Team
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