If you are an Oaklander in search of the perfect gift for the music lovers in your life, you don’t have to travel far to find something that will excite everyone on your list. Whether they play or listen, there are several unique small businesses that cater to even the hardest person to shop for. These are some of our favorite music shops in Oakland:
1-2-3-4 Go! Records: 420 40th St #5, Oakland, CA 94609
1-2-3-4 Go! Records is a Temescal gem that has been providing the neighborhood with a curated selection of new and used vinyl, tapes, and CDs. They are known for having an obscure selection of punk and other rock genres, as well as limited edition presses and local releases. If you have a friend that is all about the East Bay punk scene, you’re sure to find something they will adore at 1-2-3-4 Go! Records.
Make sure to also check out their events calendar. They host several shows featuring both local and established bands. They also have very intimate record signings and sets from some of your favorite bands such as The Silver Sun Pickups!
Contact Records: 644 40th St #104, Oakland, CA 94609
Located between Temescal and Longfellow, Contact records is a tiny new and used record shop that packs a powerful punch. Don’t let the compact space fool you, their selection is top notch! No matter what genre you are looking for, they have a little bit of everything from collectibles to bargain finds.
Econo Jam Records: 2443 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612
While shopping in Oakland’s KONO district, it’d be crazy not to stop at Econo Jam Records. If you are shopping for a jazz, hip hop, or funk/soul lover, this is the place for you. This new and used vinyl, tape, and CD shop has so many cool albums at prices that are hard to beat. They also have some awesome DJ equipment and electronic music vinyl.
Their selection of independent releases is one of the best in Oakland, so you can’t go wrong if you are looking for a gift for a local music lover. They even have a section where they sell local zenes! Support local artists and give your loved one a unique gift that they will never forget!
Stranded Records: 14 Glen Ave, Oakland, CA 94611
Known for their selection of hard to find collectors vinyl, Stranded Records is the perfect place to shop for the music snob on your list. Their Piedmont Ave shop is popular for vinyl enthusiasts looking for rare albums at reasonable prices. Stop in to see what treasures they have in stock, you will be amazed by some of the wonderful gems you will find.
A&G Music: 564 14th St, Oakland, CA 94612
For 40 years A&G Music has been the place to go for orchestral and band instruments. They have a great selection of brass and woodwind instruments, as well as sheet music, and instrument parts and accessories. Has your child been talking about joining the school band? Surprise them this holiday season with their first instrument!
Are you worried about investing in an instrument that your kid might not love? You’re in luck! At A&G Music you can rent any instrument at a reasonable price.
Acme House of Music: 4444 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611
Acme House of Music is a Piedmont Ave music store that sells a cool selection of new and consignment instruments. They have a huge selection of acoustic and electric guitars, as well as ukuleles. They also have really interesting used musical instruments including keyboards, percussion instruments, really awesome mixers, and so much more! Stop in to see what they currently have in stock. You may find some really unique instruments that you may have never seen before!
Do you know someone who has always wanted to learn how to play an instrument, but has never taken the initiative? Give them the gift of music lessons for the holidays! Along with musical instruments, Acme House of Music offers music lessons for several instruments including key, string, and brass instruments.
Broken Guitars: 423 40th St, Oakland, CA 94609
If you are shopping for a guitar lover, then Broken Guitars is the shop for you. They sell previously owned acoustic and electric guitars, amps, and pedals. Their cozy Temescal shop is extremely inviting and is packed with an impressive selection of instruments that fit into all budgets. Come in and test out the merchandise. Chat with the friendly and knowledgeable staff to find exactly what you need to make your loved one’s holiday a memorable one.
Give the gift of music this season while also investing in the city you love by visiting these amazing music shops and others like them. Learn more about all of the amazing music shops in your neighborhood only at Shop Oakland Now!
