VMP Magazine

The 50 Best Record Stores In America is an essay series where we attempt to find the best record store in every state. These aren’t necessarily the record stores with the best prices or the deepest selection; you can use Yelp for that. Each record store featured has a story that goes beyond what’s on its shelves; these stores have history, foster a sense of community and mean something to the people who frequent them.

Photos by Phoenixx Flix

Rooted in allyship, communication, and social responsibility, arts and education non-profits We Make Noise and Educated Little Monsters have formed an impactful partnership. Both organizations work tirelessly to provide a safe space and resources for marginalized and Brooklyn-native children to create, imagine, and build community. Launched individually in 2013, their year-round, student-driven programs ranging from instrument instruction, dance, jewelry making and mural design are now frequently collaborative efforts.

Nearing its 100th episode in just over three years, Song Exploder host and creator Hrishikesh Hirway has helped deconstruct the creative process of some of the most exciting names in music. Sitting with their original composers, Hirway peels apart individual track stems, providing a frame for artists to unpack their decision making process. Piece by piece, musicians ranging from Ghostface Killah to Iggy Pop speak candidly, sharing intimate stories often reserved for late-night talks with fellow musicians.