Mark your calendars! National Album Day is set to return on Saturday, October 18th, 2025, with this year's highly anticipated theme celebrating the diverse and ever-evolving world of Rock music. Now in its eighth year, the annual event, a joint initiative by the BPI and ERA, aims to spotlight the enduring artistry of the album format and the compelling stories told within its tracks.
Following successful editions that have championed themes such as '90s albums, 'Women in Music,' 'Debut Albums,' and last year's 'Great British Groups,' 2025 will see a deep dive into the rich history and vibrant future of rock. The genre continues to push boundaries, with a new wave of British talent like Wet Leg, Nova Twins, The Last Dinner Party, Mary in the Junkyard, and Sprints joining established acts like Bring Me The Horizon in redefining contemporary rock.
"National Album Day celebrates not just the art of the album, but recognises also the format's continuing importance at the heart of our music ecosystem," states Dr. Jo Twist OBE, BPI Chief Executive. "We invite anyone with a love of the album, and this year with a passion for rock music, to take part and contribute."
The timing of National Album Day is especially significant, falling in the same week as the Mercury Prize, which will be held in Newcastle-upon-Tyne on October 16th, further emphasizing the album's cultural importance. Last year's campaign garnered unprecedented support from BBC Radio 2, including a Johnny Marr-hosted series and a poll crowning The Beatles as the greatest British group. Special product releases proved incredibly popular, accounting for one in five albums sold and dominating half of the weekend's top 40 vinyl chart.
With a week-long build-up of events, including listening parties, live performances, in-store appearances, and exhibitions, National Album Day promises to be a comprehensive celebration of rock. Kim Bayley, ERA Chief Executive, underscores its unique position: "At a time when music's focus is on track-based listening, National Album Day is a unique collaboration... to highlight the uniquely satisfying characteristics of the album format."
Prepare to rediscover classic rock anthems and uncover exciting new talent as National Album Day 2025 promises to be an unmissable event for music lovers across the UK.
