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Just Keep Spinning | A Guide to Pittsburgh Record Stores
Some of the top record shops in the world are right here in Pittsburgh
After nearly disappearing altogether in the 1990s, vinyl records are back in a big way (selling 43 million albums in 2022 alone). Modern bands now do special new releases and pressings, while classic albums are becoming much sought-after for collectors and people rediscovering this format.
Whether you're looking for rare Record Store Day finds, discovering new bands and labels or just mounting your favorite pressing and album cover in your home, Pittsburgh record stores have you covered.
Jerry's Records
Even when I go in for exactly what I want, I still lose a few hours in Jerry's. Boasting nearly one million albums, vinyl across all genres lines every hallway, nook and cranny at this sprawling Squirrel Hill shop. Don't be surprised to see national touring musicians rubbing elbows with you as you browse; musicians the world over make time to stop at Jerry's.
Need a repair? The Turntable Doctor is located in the same shop to fix up your record players, antique radios and more.
Pleasant Dreams Records
Punk's Not Dead at Pleasant Dreams Records on Polish Hill. Everything from art punk to crust punk, deathrock and glam punk is on the shelves here, and you might even leave with a favorite horror classic on VHS or laserdisc.
The Government Center
Fantastic vinyl is just one selling point at The Government Center in Pittsburgh's North Side. They do in-store sales only for a reason; their knowledgeable and friendly staff love music and want to share that with you through recommendations and great service so you leave with the music that suits you.
Add in a stage with frequent live music, an outstanding coffee/espresso shop and a bar open daily from 4 p.m. to close. One visit is all it took to make The Government Center a must-stop when I'm craving new vinyl.
Attic Record Store
In town for a show at Mr. Smalls or the Millvale Music Festival? Attic Record Store has a fantastic selection of new and used LPs, 45s and 12-inch singles.
Get Hip Records
In a music world of mergers and conglomerates, Get Hip is a bit of a miracle. This independent label has distributed 20,000 titles since opening in 1986 across garage, punk, soul and more genres. While their online store is fantastic, their physical shop in the Chateau neighborhood is a perfect stop to browse, chat new releases with the friendly staff and then explore nearby Bicycle Heaven and Jonny Angel's Ginchy Stuff for retro overload.
Vinyl-Man's Clubhouse
Finding Vinyl-Man is like discovering a secret cache of albums all for yourself. Follow the signs and head down an alleyway in Swissvale and you just might find this basement full of treasures, too. Despite owner Jerry Weber passing in 2022, the Clubhouse remains open and devoted to getting the right records to the people who want them at an affordable price.
Dorsey's Record Shop
With a niche selection of gospel, hip hop, jazz, mainstream and underground R&B records, Dorsey's is one of the oldest vinyl purveyors in Pittsburgh since opening in 1946. These days, Dorsey's can also help with media transfer and getting those precious memories off of VHS tapes and much more.
Long Play Café
Long Play's love of music is evident in the TLC they put into every rescued record. Pre-owned LPs here get repaired, cleaned and protected to make sure your purchase sounds amazing for years to come. Bring your laptop, enjoy their Italian coffee and just enjoy the vibes at this fantastic Lawrenceville shop.
Preserving Record Shop
This one is a bit of a drive out in New Kensington, but trust me! What started out as a haven for hardcore music, Preserving has since branched out and become a hot spot for wax collectors and the only store I've ever seen with a Butt Rock or Nu-Metal section. Check their concert venue, Preserving Underground, to see if any concerts line up with your visit.
