Rough Trade to celebrate 50th birthday with special releases and one-off gigs
The iconic record store will take over London’s Southbank Centre as part of it’s anniversary celebrations.
Just when you thought your favourite album had already been repressed in a new colourway you just “had to have,” which led to a self-compelled vinyl buying ban, Rough Trade strike with their 50th Anniversary Releases. Before you know it, you’ve bought yet another pressing of said album, but in an even more striking pressing — and you have absolutely no regrets.
That’s right, the iconic Rough Trade are celebrating their 50th Anniversary and, to commemorate, they’re releasing one record for each year they have been open.
Opening their doors in 1976, Rough Trade started out as a small, friendly neighbourhood record store, which built its image on an ethos of left-wing politics, DIY attitudes and a focus on punk and contemporary, independent artists.
From their humble beginnings in 1976 to their current icon status in 2026, 50 records will be released, in five drops of ten pressings — all of which are limited edition, so set your alarms for the drops to avoid missing out.
So far, we have seen the likes of some incredible albums, from Head Over Heels by Cocteau Twins (1983) to Nirvana’s Nevermind (1991). The collection explores a wide range of genres and the albums that mean the most to them as a company. Not to mention the stunning pressings and colour ways, and the limited edition and exclusivity of the copies, which makes them so sought after.
To delve into their 50th Anniversary celebrations, Rough Trade are set to take over London’s Southbank Centre, with the promise of throwing a party to remember.
With a jam-packed schedule of multiple events, spanning across the venue from July 17th to 19th, clear your calendar and attend the party! The main event sees none other than Pulp perform, along with two gigs from Scritti Politti and caroline, and special guests My New Band Believe.
Rough Trade Books will also host an event to excite any music and literature fan: An Evening with Rough Trade Books, which takes place on July 17th in Queen Elizabeth Hall. This event will see a range of authors, poets and contemporary performances, who will perform and read excerpts to crowds of onlookers, with the addition of special appearances from the likes of Ana da Silva of The Raincoats and Aidan Moffat of Arab Strap, with many more to come.
To smooth the edges of the 50th Anniversary celebration, a special viewing of Ken Loach’s film Kes will be shown and accompanied by a live orchestra, with an introduction from Jarvis Cocker. Each event is set to be astounding and not to be missed.
Seeing is believing, and you won’t believe the sights on show at this event. To avoid missing out on the party and regretting it forever, find out more here.
