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The City of Music Stores
When visitors picture Seattle what often comes to mind is the city's legendary music scene. Of course this makes sense considering the plethora of musicians that have been catapulted into stardom via the city's tight knit artistic community. While the early 90's is the most obvious touchstone for Seattle music, the city has a long lineage of musical achievements that long predates the grunge explosion including being the birthplace of Jimi Hendrix and the homestead of hip-hop phenom Sir Mix a Lot whose soliloquy to the female posterior has cemented itself as a staple of pop culture. With a city as musically inclined as Seattle, it is no wonder that it has so many great things to offer for music fans. Prime among them is its fantastic collection of record stores. Stumble onto main drag in Seattle and you're bound to find one. Record stores are a staple of the city's music scene and not only for shopping, but amongst other things, for hosting in-store appearances by local favorites and nationally renowned musical acts. So if you have trouble making up your mind on which places to check out, this list may help narrow down your choices.
 5 Sonic Boom
An essential component of Seattle's music scene, it not only has a great selection of music but is also one of the prime locations for in-store appearances by bands coming through town. In addition, having three locations (Ballard, Fremont, and Capitol Hill), it's rarely ever more than a short bus ride away. Recommended is the Fremont location which just recently opened a groovy new vinyl annex adjacent to its main storefront.
Nestled at the bottom of Capitol Hill, this cozy little spot proves that quality always trumps quantity. What it lacks in size it makes up for in its variety and eclecticism. Simply parouse the aisles and you'll discover something you've never heard before. Plus, the staff are really friendly and knowledgable and will help you with any questions or, if you're feeling adventurous, possible recommendations.
As the name suggests, this store is perfect for those who desire a late night musical oddyssey. Open every day until midnight, Everyday Music has one of the best selections of new and used music in Seattle. With two floors full of cd's, vinyl, dvd's, posters, etc. it is no wonder that they stay open well into the wee hours. The real heartstopper is its stunning collection of used cd's which should satiate the most diehard music aficionado's appetite.
 2 Bop Street
While unassuming from the outside, this old Ballard haunt must be seen to be believed. Boasting a collection of vinyl in the hundreds of thousands, Bop Street is the holy grail for anyone in search of a dusty groove. For fans of jazz, soul, funk, and classic rock this store is absolutely essential. If you're feeling overwhlemed, take a break and comb the walls near the entrance which contain a few dozen scribbles and autographs of famous musicians and other notables that have walked through its doors (among them being Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead fame).
This Seattle staple exceeds almost every record store in the city in close to every category. Boasting a comprehensive collection of new and used cd's in nearly every genre, a solid offering of new and used vinyl, not to mention a staggering amount of live concert dvd's, it is hands down the epicenter of all that is musical in Seattle. Its also home to the city's most high profile in-store appearances including a special performance by Pearl Jam last year. Easy Street has something to offer everyone from the casual browser to the most discriminating music guru and should factor into anyone's day of music store exploration.
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