Ready to get groovy, San Jose? We’re turning the tables on how you listen to music. From classic rock bands like The Beatles + Pink Floyd to iconic singers such as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Marvin Gaye — there’s vinyl for just about everyone at these local music hubs.
Unplug the aux cord and dust off your dad’s old record player. We’ve rounded up four vibrant + diverse record stores that are well-stocked and totally in tune with your musical needs. 🎵
On The Corner Music was established in 2006. | Photo via @33sonthecorner
On The Corner Music | 📍 1737 Park Ave.
Nestled in the Rose Garden neighborhood, this store offers fresh (and sometimes, rare) selections of gently-used vinyls + cassettes almost every day. Don’t be a stranger, because owner Jeff Michael Evans will gladly chat + even let you test out records on his vintage hi-fi equipment, which is also available to purchase.
Knight Sounds Entertainment | 📍 1518 Alum Rock Ave.
This is a one-stop shop for all your vinyl needs. Owner Carlos Diaz keeps his shop stacked with affordable vinyls, as well as sound systems and DJ equipment. As a veteran DJ himself, Carlos can fix sound issues on your personal devices + is available to book for events.
Streetlight Records regularly features vinyls specific to a celebratory month. | Photo via @streetlightrecords
Streetlight Records | 📍 980 S. Bascom Ave.
This spunky store was established in 1975 and offers a diverse selection of genres ranging from Japanese city pop to gothic rock to jazz fusion. They update their website regularly with new additions and host live music events — the next one is Sat., May 7 at 4 p.m. featuring John Renna + special guest, Alibastard.
Needle to the Groove | 📍 424 E. Santa Clara St.
This tiny Downtown record shop is one of two locations dedicated to promoting small artists + bands. They have giant bargain bins, a collectibles section where you may snag some autographed vinyls, and custom shirts sporting major pride-in-place.
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