The Hives and Indie Artists Unite for Free Record Store Day Festival in NYC

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Celebration of Independence and Music Culture
4. Rough Trade's Influence and Expansion
5. The Hives: Masters of Rock
6. Anticipating the Day: What to Prepare
7. The Broader Implication of Indie Music Festivals
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Event: The Indieplaza Festival on Record Store Day, April 12, 2025, at Rockefeller Center.
• Performers: A lineup featuring The Hives, Scowl, clipping., and more.
• Access: The festival is free and open to the public, with performances beginning at 12 PM.
• Rough Trade: The iconic record store will open early for exclusive releases, expanding to a new location.

Introduction

On April 12, 2025, music enthusiasts in New York City will experience the galvanizing energy of live performances as the Indieplaza Festival unfolds at Rockefeller Center. This free outdoor concert, hosted by Rough Trade in celebration of Record Store Day, will showcase a stellar lineup featuring rock favorites like The Hives and avant-garde acts like clipping. and Scowl. This year's Indieplaza festival not only reflects the current indie music landscape but reaffirms the importance of vinyl culture in an era dominated by digital streaming.

With Rough Trade, a cornerstone of the indie music community, expanding its iconic presence in New York, the festival promises to be an unforgettable day for both artists and fans.

A Celebration of Independence and Music Culture

Record Store Day, observed annually since 2008, aims to promote independent record stores and the culture surrounding them. The event has grown exponentially over the years, garnering attention from fans and major artists alike. In 2025, it remains a crucial occasion for communities and indie bands to connect through live performances and special vinyl releases.

Key Details of the Indieplaza Festival:

• Date: April 12, 2025
• Location: Rockefeller Center, New York City
• Performers: The Hives, Scowl, clipping., Pachyman, Zsela, Lifeguard, Slippers, as well as DJ sets by Chanel Beads, Yuno, Confines, and Ohaileigh.
• Entry: Free

The Rising Influence of Independent Artists

Indie music has witnessed a renaissance in recent years, fueled by the growth of social media platforms and streaming services that allow artists to share their work and engage with fans. The inclusion of bands like Scowl and clipping. at the Indieplaza Festival showcases the diversity of the genre and how it continues to evolve, breaking traditional boundaries and attracting wider audiences.

Scowl’s upcoming album “Are We All Angels,” set for release shortly before the festival, reflects on the band's journey within the punk-rock scene. Their energy and perspective have made them a relevant force, and their performance at the Indieplaza stages marks a pivotal moment for emerging voices in music.

Conversely, clipping., known for their experimental approach, has made significant strides with their latest release “Dead Channel Sky.” Their brand of music pushes the envelope, making them iconoclastic figures in an industry often defined by convention.

Rough Trade's Influence and Expansion

Rough Trade has been an integral part of the indie music narrative for decades, originally founded in London in 1976. It has served as a launchpad for many now-renowned artists. The New York branch has embraced this legacy while dynamically adapting to the changing music landscape.

In 2025, Rough Trade announced plans to open a second location beneath its current flagship at 30 Rockefeller Center. This expansion represents a commitment to foster local music culture and ensure that indie music remains accessible. For the Indieplaza Festival, Rough Trade will open its doors early at 9 AM, offering exclusive vinyl releases available only on that day.

What to Expect From Indieplaza

Gearing up for the festival, attendees can anticipate an exciting atmosphere packed with musical variety. The festival is designed to highlight both established artists like The Hives and newer voices who are redefining what it means to be an independent musician.

Scheduled Highlights:

• 12 PM: Festival performances begin
• Featured artists: The Hives, known for their electrifying live shows, share the stage with penetrating lyricists and boundary-pushers like Zsela and Lifeguard.

The community engagement and connection through music are crucial to the festival's mission, creating an inviting atmosphere where attendees can immerse themselves in the performance and discover new artists.

The Hives: Masters of Rock

Swedish rock band The Hives have been a formidable presence in the music industry since the late '90s. Known for their energetic performances and distinctive sound, they gained widespread acclaim with albums like "Veni Vidi Vicious" and "Lex Hives."

The Hives’ performances are marked by riotous energy and a strong connection to the audience, making them a fitting headlining act for the Indieplaza Festival. Their ability to bridge generations of rock fans, while introducing new audiences to the genre, reflects the collaborative spirit of the festival.

The Impact of Record Store Day

The annual celebration of Record Store Day transcends music sales alone; it highlights the importance of physical media in an increasingly digital world. Vinyl sales have surged in recent years, even outselling CDs for the first time since the late 1980s in 2022. This upswing reflects a growing appreciation for tangible music experiences, and events like Indieplaza reinforce that enduring appeal.

For artists, Record Store Day offers a unique opportunity to inspire fans through exclusive releases and live performances while supporting local businesses that remain integral to the music ecosystem. Rough Trade and other record stores are not just retailers; they serve as venues for artistry, community, and cultural exchange.

Anticipating the Day: What to Prepare

Those planning to attend the Indieplaza Festival can enhance their experience by considering:

• Arrival Time: Arriving early can ensure a good spot in the plaza for performances.
• Record Store Day Releases: Check out which exclusive releases will be available at Rough Trade.
• Social Media Engagement: Engaging with artists and other attendees online can create a sense of community before the event.

Pro Tip: Bring your own vinyl for potential signings and don’t forget to stay hydrated throughout the day!

The Broader Implication of Indie Music Festivals

The resurgence of festivals like Indieplaza highlights a sustained interest in live music. These gatherings provide support to local economies while fostering connections among artists and fans. In a time when music consumption habits are shifting, festivals stand out as a reminder of the shared experience that music can create.

As the festival concludes, attendees not only leave with memories but also with a strengthened commitment to supporting independent artists and record stores. It serves to reaffirm why platforms such as Rough Trade remain essential in the nuanced landscape of music culture today.

Conclusion

Indieplaza encapsulates the vibrant spirit of a city and the resilient culture of independent music. With The Hives and a mix of emerging acts set to perform, the festival promises an electrifying day filled with discovery and celebration. As Rough Trade continues to pave the way forward in a shifting industry, the annual observance of Record Store Day reminds us all of the importance of supporting the tangible, creative expressions that unite us as a community.

FAQ

What is Indieplaza?

Indieplaza is a free outdoor music festival hosted by Rough Trade at Rockefeller Center in New York City to celebrate Record Store Day.

When is the festival?

The Indieplaza Festival will take place on April 12, 2025, with performances starting at 12 PM.

Who are the headlining artists?

The Hives will headline the festival, alongside other notable acts such as Scowl, clipping., and many more.

Is the event free to attend?

Yes, Indieplaza is a free event open to the public.

Where can I find exclusive Record Store Day releases?

Rough Trade will open their doors early at 9 AM on Record Store Day for exclusive releases.

What should I bring to the festival?

It's advisable to bring water, sunscreen, and your own vinyl for potential signings, as well as arriving early to secure a good view for performances.

How has Record Store Day evolved over time?

Since its inception in 2008, Record Store Day has grown significantly, emphasizing the importance of independent music shops and evolving to include special releases and community-based events.