An Album Store as Vast as a Factory

Texas' Largest Record Store — Dallas · Josey Records 📀 The scale of this shop is truly staggering—a massive record store spanning 20,000 to 25,000 square feet, making it one of the largest independent record shops not only in Texas but across the entire United States. Below are my key takeaways from this visit, focusing on hip-hop and classical sections. 1️⃣ Used Hip-Hop Section Records are organized alphabetically, but many letters don’t fill an entire row, and no other letters are mixed in to fill space, creating a sense of “gaps” while flipping through. The overall hip-hop vinyl selection isn’t as vast as you might expect—many sections appear sparse. Upon closer inspection, truly iconic or must-have classics were limited, with more common pressings, clearance items, or duplicates taking up space. 2️⃣ Used Classical Section Classical records are organized by composer. There’s an abundance of early mono pressings (lots from the '50s and '60s), which will appeal to collectors chasing original early recordings. However, many records lack condition grades, so if you find something you like, be sure to test-play it at the listening station before buying ⚠️. Iconic classical albums aren’t particularly plentiful either—instead, you’ll find a wide range of stock varying in age and collectible value. Many are well-known works from decent composers, but pressed by average labels or released in multiple reissues. 🎶 More Than Just Vinyl The store also carries new releases, merchandise, 45s, cassettes, and hosts in-store events and DJ sets. The overall vibe is that of a large music merchandise hub—less “small and curated,” more “sprawling and comprehensive,” almost reminiscent of Tokyo’s Tower Records vibe 🗼💿. 🔒 Locked Glass Cases for CDs & Rare Items Noticed many (potentially rare) CDs locked in glass cases without clear categorization labels, requiring you to scan case by case—a bit tiring but also like a treasure hunt. Tip: If something catches your eye, ask staff to unlock the case for closer inspection or pricing. 🎵 Pop Section Popular CD albums are well-stocked, but rare colored vinyl editions are scarce. That said, there’s no shortage of Taylor Swift in sight 😉 ✅ Final Thoughts A massive yet not particularly curated mega-store—great for browsing, and you’ll likely walk out with something, but don’t expect to dig up many rare gems. Ideal for casual explorers, less so for hardcore collectors hunting for rarities. Still, a must-visit for any music lover in Dallas—if only to experience its warehouse-sized wonder in person 🏭🎧. #US #Dallas #Texas