Tune In: Get to Know 3 Independently-Owned Record Stores in Williamson County
It’s 2025, and record players are still all the rage. Nostalgic to many, and favored by some, the classic piece of recording technology is still in high demand for music enthusiasts of all ages. Even with an increasingly saturated online music streaming market, turntables are still sold at most major retailers and modern artists still release their music on special edition vinyl. Many hold the belief that music is simply better when listened to this way, with the physicality, sound quality, and vibrant cover art adding to the appeal. No matter the specific reasoning, there seems to be a resounding agreement: in terms of coolness, records reign. If you concur and are eager to add to your collection, you can find what you’re looking for right here in Williamson County, from used classics to the newest releases.
From Phonographs to Streaming Platforms: A Brief History of Music Distribution
The history of recorded music began with none other than Thomas Edison. In 1877, Edison created the phonograph, a device that laid the technological foundation for modern turntables. The recording, play-back feature of the first phonographs—which required manual cranking throughout the listening experience—was, at the time, a modern marvel. 10 years later, in 1887, the phonograph was replaced by the gramophone, a musical device created by German immigrant Emile Berliner. The gramophone is more closely related to the record players we know and love today, making recorded music more accessible and user-friendly. The earliest records, called 78s, were made of shellac and could only hold a few minutes of music on each side of the disc. They’re called 78s because they rotate 78 times per minute (RPM), a feature that affects disc storage and sound.
78s were the grandfather of vinyl records as we now know them, which didn’t appear on the scene until 1948, when vinyl 33s and 45s entered the market. The material vinyl, made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), evolved from shellac. Fun fact: technically, PVC pipes are made of the same base material as your beloved record collection. The more versatile material and slower rotation of the discs allowed for more music to be stored, therefore allowing artists to release more music per album. This changed the landscape of the music industry forever.
The late 20th century brought stereos, cassettes, and CDs, which significantly dropped record sales, leaving many to believe they would soon become obsolete. But even as online music streaming took hold of the market, millennial and Gen Z consumers began to seek out the vintage, analog sound of record players. Despite the virtual death of cassette tapes and CDs in the popular market, vinyl records have remained relevant, with an upward trend in sales over the last decade.
Luna Record Shop: Downtown Franklin
Luna Record Shop is located in downtown Franklin, at The Factory at Franklin. The store has been open since 2015, and is co-owned by sisters Brenna Gentry and Calvert Gentry-McMahan. Fourth-generation Franklin natives, the sisters fulfilled a lifelong dream of going into business together, combining their mutual passion for good music and record collecting. Alongside selling new and used records, Luna Record Shop is a place customers can sell and trade their own gently used vinyl. The store is interested in 33s and select 45s, and although they might not take everything, they offer cash or store credit for what they do take. Additionally, they are interested in select vintage audio equipment, including turntables, cassette decks, receivers, and stereos. Because they tend to be more selective with equipment, the store recommends reaching out via email with photos and model numbers before you go to the trouble of bringing the equipment to the store.
The shop restocks their vinyl collection weekly, and also offers pre-order options for popular upcoming releases. Besides new and used records in nearly every genre—with a particular affinity for 80s and 90s alternative rock—Luna Record Shop also sells used cassette tapes and cool merch, available for purchase either in-store or online. The store is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m.
Address: 230 Franklin Rd Suite 12D, Franklin, TN, 37064
Email: info@lunarecordshop.com
Phone:615-806-9435
Carpe Diem: Franklin
Carpe Diem Records was the first record store in Franklin, opening near the heart of historic downtown in 2005. The store is owned by Will Jordan, an active figure in Franklin’s music scene. Jordan also happens to own The Legendary Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor, located right next door to Carpe Diem, and Mockingbird Theater, a state-of-the-art venue inside the Factory at Franklin. Dedicated to the love of music and antiques, Jordan’s Carpe Diem Records is a nostalgic collector’s dream. They sell vintage comics, clothes, postcards, assorted knick-knacks, used camera and music equipment, fine art, and more among an impressive record collection. The store’s continued mission, alongside Jordan’s other musical pursuits, is to keep the powerful soul of music alive in Franklin and, as always, to keep the good vibes rolling.
Seize the day! Inventory at the store is always fresh, as Carpe Diem buys and sells between 200 and 500 records weekly. Prices vary, but range between $5-$20 on average, depending on condition and demand. Hard-to-find and specialty titles have a slightly steeper price tag. The store is always on the hunt for new treasures, and encourages customers to sell or trade their record collections or unique, antique goods. For online shopping purposes, the store is also active on platforms Etsy and eBay. The brick-and-mortar store is open from 12 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and closed Sundays and Mondays.
Address: 212 S Margin St, Franklin, TN 37064
Email: info@carpediem212.com
Phone: 615-429-0157
Rock-A-Rolla Records: Spring Hill
Rock-A-Rolla Records, previously Spinners Record Store, is located in Spring Hill. The company has been around for about 6 years and has been at its current location on Main Street, with its new name, a little over a year. Rock-A-Rolla Records is a woman-owned business, operated by owner Tracy Jones. Although specializing in vinyl of all genres, the store also has a constantly evolving selection of CDs, cassettes, band tees, music memorabilia, and more. The store is known for having a great selection of treasures for music lovers, and at a reasonable price. If you can’t get to their brick-and-mortar store, a select number of special edition records are available for online purchase on Rock-A-Rolla’s website.
Akin to the other record shops in Williamson County, you can buy, sell, and trade records and other collectables at Rock-A-Rolla. It’s advised to reach out to the store if you think you may have an item you think would be of interest. They’re willing to pay top dollar for top-quality vintage items, and are even willing to travel for incredible finds if necessary. Alongside other music-loving companies in the area, Rock-A-Rolla was a top sponsor for Spring Hill’s first Mid-Tennessee Record Fair, which took place in July of 2024. The best way to stay up-to-date with the store and related events is through their social media.
Address: 5075 Main St. Suite B1, Spring Hill, TN, 37174
Email: Rockarollaspringhill@gmail.com
Phone: 615-302-8080
What is Record Store Day?
Record Store Day, which all 3 Williamson County stores proudly participate in, is a celebration of independently owned record stores around the world. There is a collective pride surrounding the beloved culture of the brick-and-mortar record store: the staff, customers, collectors, and artists that keep the the world of music retail spinning. Considered a holiday of sorts in the music community, Record Store Day has been promoted by some of the biggest names in the industry. Though there’s only one official Record Store Day each year, the organization regularly facilitates events, partners with record labels, and supports independently owned stores, preserving the integrity of small businesses and their role in the arts.
Stores that participate in Record Store Day are retailers whose primary business focuses on their physical store and the customers they serve. These stores are committed to traditional music retail and are independently owned, not publicly traded, companies. Since 2008, special edition vinyl and exclusive, promotional products have been sold on Record Store Day around the globe, and record stores are often open for special hours or events. Record Store Day 2025 was held on April 12th. You can learn more on the official Record Store Day website.
Experience Even More Music
Music City, U.S.A. is just a quick drive up I-65, so it comes as no surprise that the music scene is alive and well in Williamson County, Tennessee. Beyond our independent record shops, there are an abundance of live shows, iconic venues, stores, and resources for musicians from corner to corner of our incredible community. If you’re looking to experience even more music this year, check out local artists at incredible venues like Fox & Locke in Leiper’s Fork, or catch industry icons at FirstBank Amphitheater, located in Franklin’s beautiful Graystone Quarry.
Live music is one of our most sought-after attractions, and you can experience it at local restaurants and events throughout the year. For some added excitement this summer into fall, check out the world-class music festivals set to be hosted in and around Williamson County.
The arts will forever be an important pillar of our community and our world. However you choose to partake in the joy of music—whether it’s the stage, a vintage turntable, or your streaming platform of choice—keep in mind the independent artists and businesses that work hard to keep its spirit alive.
