Record Stores in Washington DC

Washington DC's record stores reflect the capital's surprising musical depth. DC is the birthplace of go-go, a seminal East Coast punk scene, and a long tradition of jazz performance — and all of it shows up in the crates. Stores here carry unusual inventory: international pressings from the diplomatic community, local-label rarities, and a strong selection of politically engaged music spanning decades. DC is a great city for finding things you weren't looking for, which is the highest praise any record store scene can earn.