Since 2007, the physical record store has been highlighted in April every year. All over the world, "Record Store Day" is celebrated with special editions of classics along with live performances.
"In the beginning, it was a lot about 'don't let the record stores die out' and apparently it has worked. We are super happy about that, says Wilhelm Tengdahl, store manager for a record store in central Stockholm.
He says that rare editions of everything from Kent to the Ramones and Caroline af Ugglas may be what the record fans fight for.
The role of the record store in a digital world
Today, the majority of our music listening takes place digitally via streaming services.
But according to Tengdahl, the interest in music in physical form has only grown and grown and still crept down in age. The physical stores give a sense of reality.
"When I was younger, I went to record stores and arcades. They are not quite there anymore to the same extent, so the stores that still exist I think are an important part of the digitized society.
He says he sees a streaming saturation in the younger generation coming into the store.
"They want to see the large format, sit in the armchair and flip through the records and check the lyrics.
CDs: a pension insurance
In addition to the store itself, the vinyl record, which has increased in popularity in recent years, is also in focus. But due to machine shortages and high demand, they are expensive and hard to come by. Which can lead to the return of the CD.
"It's basically very trend-based, but it wouldn't surprise me if it were to turn around. So tip to everyone at home: save your CDs, it can be a pension insurance, says Wilhelm Tendahl.