A deep dive into vinyl culture in Nottingham

By Charlie Alsop

Vinyl culture in Nottingham 

Nottingham, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, has long been a hub for music enthusiasts. Among the many musical traditions that thrive here, vinyl culture holds a special place. From the early days of record shops to the downfall of vinyl in the digital age and its recent resurgence, Nottingham’s vinyl scene has seen it all.  

History of Nottingham’s Record Shops

The history of vinyl in Nottingham dates back to the mid 20th century when the first record shops began to emerge. These shops quickly became cultural landmarks, attracting music lovers from across the city. The late 1950s and 1960s were a golden era for vinyl, with shops like Selectadisc and Rob’s Records becoming iconic destinations for those seeking the latest sounds. 

Selectadisc, founded by Brian Selby in 1966, was perhaps the most famous of Nottingham’s record stores. Originally located on Arkwright Street, it quickly gained a reputation for its diverse selection of music, ranging from rock and pop to reggae and punk. Selectadisc became a meeting place for music lovers and a hub for the city’s burgeoning counterculture. In 1985, The Clash played in store on the counters of the shop in an acoustic performance for the benefit of striking miners after Jim Cooke for Selectadisc met Joe Strummer in a bar the day prior. The shop’s success was a testament to the growing appetite for vinyl records in Nottingham and the role these stores played in shaping the city’s musical landscape.

Rob Smith, the owner of Rob’s Records is another key figure in Nottingham’s vinyl history. Established in the 1980s, Rob’s Records was known for its vast collection of second-hand records, offering everything from rare collectibles to obscure gems. Rob’s passion for music and his deep knowledge of vinyl made his shop a beloved institution among Nottingham’s vinyl enthusiasts. Even today, Rob’s Records remains a treasure trove for those on the hunt for vinyl in Nottingham. 

The Decline of Vinyl

As the 1980s gave way to the 1990s, the music industry underwent a dramatic transformation. The rise of CD’s, followed by the advent of digital downloads and streaming services, led to a sharp decline in vinyl sales. Record shops that had once thrived began to struggle, with many closing their doors for good. The convenience and portability of digital music seemed to spell the end for vinyl, relegating it to a niche market of audiophiles and collectors. 

In Nottingham, the impact of this shift was felt acutely. Iconic shops like Selectadisc eventually closed, and the city’s once thriving vinyl scene appeared to be in terminal decline. For many, it seemed that vinyl was a relic of the past, destined to be remembered fondly but no longer relevant in the modern music landscape.

The Resurgence of Vinyl

However, vinyl was far from finished. Starting in the late 2000s, a remarkable resurgence began to take shape. Driven by a renewed appreciation for the tactile nature of vinyl, as well as its superior sound quality, vinyl sales began to climb once again. This resurgence was not just a passing trend but a cultural movement that celebrated the artistry and craftmanship of vinyl records. 

In Nottingham, this resurgence has breathed new life into the city’s vinyl culture. New record shops have opened their doors, and established ones have enjoyed a renaissance. The Music Exchange, for example, has become a key player in Nottingham’s vinyl scene, offering a carefully curated selection of records that cater to both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. The shop also serves as a community hub, hosting events and fostering a sense of camaraderie amongst Nottingham’s music lovers.

Another important figure in the city’s vinyl revival is Jim Cook, the owner of Forever Records. Since its opening in 2015, Forever Records has quickly become a go-to destination for vinyl enthusiasts. The shop’s focus on quality over quantity, combined with Jim’s passion for music, has made it a beloved spot for those looking to explore the world of vinyl. The shop’s success is a testament to the enduring appeal of vinyl and its place in Nottingham’s cultural fabric. 

Vinyl Culture Today

Today, vinyl culture in Nottingham is thriving once again. Record Store Day, an annual event that celebrates independent record shops, is eagerly anticipated by the city’s vinyl community. Shops like Rough Trade, which opened in 2014, have helped to reinvigorate the scene, offering not only records but also live performances and cultural events from artists such as Slowthai, Beabadoobee, Sleaford Mods and more. The resurgence of vinyl has also inspired a new generation of collectors, who are drawn to the unique experience that vinyl offers.

Vinyl culture in Nottingham is more than just a trend; it’s a living tradition that continues to evolve. From the early days of Selectadisc and Rob’s Records to the modern resurgence led by shops like Forever Records and Rough Trade, Nottingham’s love affair with vinyl is a testament to the timeless appeal of this analog medium. As new generations discover the joys of vinyl, Nottingham’s vinyl culture is set to continue thriving for years to come.

Whether you’re a lifelong collector or a curious newcomer, Nottingham’s vibrant vinyl scene offers something for everyone. The city’s record shops, old and new, are cultural landmarks, community spaces and gateways to a rich musical heritage that spans decades.