Most anticipated vinyl releases this year—what’s on your list

April 15, 2025

The vinyl revival is fueled by a craving for tangible music experiences, superior sound quality, and collectible appeal. Gen Z and millennials are flocking to record stores, driven by social media trends on platforms like TikTok and events like Record Store Day (RSD), which moved to April 12, 2025, due to Easter. With over 300 exclusive titles announced for RSD 2025, including live recordings, anniversary editions, and first-time pressings, the year is packed with must-have LPs. Meanwhile, new albums from major artists are hitting shelves, making 2025 a golden year for vinyl enthusiasts.

Here’s a curated list of vinyl releases generating the most excitement, based on industry sources, fan chatter, and RSD announcements. These span genres and eras, ensuring something for every collector.

1. Post Malone – Nirvana Covers (RSD 2025 Exclusive)

Why It’s Hot: As the RSD 2025 Ambassador, Post Malone brings his iconic 2020 Nirvana covers livestream to vinyl for the first time. Featuring Travis Barker on drums, this 14-song set includes Nevermind classics like Come As You Are. Pressed on limited-edition vinyl, proceeds support MusiCares’ mental health initiatives.
Why You Need It: It’s a collectible blend of ’90s grunge and modern pop-rap with a charitable impact. Expect queues at record stores—only 8,000 U.S. copies are available.
List Worthy? A must for Nirvana fans and Malone completists.

2. Taylor Swift – “Fortnight” 7-Inch (RSD 2025 Exclusive)

Why It’s Hot: Taylor Swift teams up with Post Malone for a white vinyl 7-inch of Fortnight from The Tortured Poets Department. It includes the BLOND: ISH remix, marking its vinyl debut. With 12,000 copies and Swift’s massive fanbase, this will sell out fast.
Why You Need It: Swift’s RSD releases are collector catnip, and this single is a tie to her chart-topping 2024 album. The white vinyl adds aesthetic appeal.
List Worthy?: Essential for Swifties and pop vinyl collectors.

3. Lady Gaga – Mayhem

Why It’s Hot: Lady Gaga’s seventh album, Mayhem, is a pop homecoming after 2020’s Chromatica. Featuring singles like “Abracadabra” and “Disease”, it’s already a best-seller in 2025, with critics noting its nod to her early dance-pop roots. The vinyl edition is expected to feature colored pressings.
Why You Need It: Gaga’s vinyl releases are known for bold packaging, and Mayhem promises high-fidelity dance tracks perfect for spinning.
List Worthy? A top pick for pop and audiophile fans.

4. Rage Against the Machine – Live on Tour 1993 (RSD 2025 Exclusive)

Why It’s Hot: This three-sided vinyl LP captures Rage Against the Machine’s raw 1993 world tour with untouched live recordings of Bombtrack and Killing in the Name. With an etched fourth side, it’s a collector’s dream. Only 8,000 U.S. copies make it a hot ticket.
Why You Need It: RATM’s political anthems shine in live format, and the limited pressing ensures value growth.
List Worthy? A slam dunk for rock and protest music fans.

5. Gorillaz – Live from the Apollo Theater (RSD 2025 Exclusive)

Why It’s Hot: Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Demon Days, Gorillaz release their 2006 Harlem concert on double red vinyl. Hits like Feel Good Inc. and DARE get the live treatment in a gatefold sleeve. Limited to 3,000 U.S. copies, it’s a rare gem.
Why You Need It: Gorillaz’ visual flair and alt-pop sound make this a stunning vinyl experience.
List Worthy?: Perfect for alt-rock and animation enthusiasts.

6. Lana Del Rey – R4

Why It’s Hot: Lana Del Rey teased her Motomami follow-up, R4, with cryptic social media posts, confirming a 2025 release. Known for cinematic soundscapes, her vinyl editions often feature lush packaging and colored vinyl
Why You Need It: Lana’s melancholic pop is tailor-made for vinyl’s warmth, and R4 is set to be a fan favorite.
List Worthy? A must for indie-pop and aesthetic collectors.

7. Wu-Tang Clan – New Album (RSD 2025 Exclusive)

Why It’s Hot: The first Wu-Tang Clan album with all nine members since 2014, this 180-gram audiophile vinyl features 12 tracks, including Claudine. Each jacket has unique cover art, making every copy a collectible.
Why You Need It: Wu-Tang’s hip-hop legacy and one-of-a-kind packaging ensure this LP’s value soars.
List Worthy?: Essential for rap and streetwear fans.

8. Joni Mitchell – L.A. Express Tour (RSD 2025 Exclusive)

Why It’s Hot: This 3xLP set chronicles Joni Mitchell’s 1976 L.A. Express tour, capturing her jazz-folk evolution. With unreleased tracks, it’s a treasure for classic rock fans. Limited to 4,000 copies.
Why You Need It: Mitchell’s live performances are dynamic, and this vinyl offers rich sound for audiophiles.
List Worthy? A gem for folk and jazz lovers.

9. BTS – New Album

Why It’s Hot: After solo projects during their enlistment hiatus, BTS is set to release a new group album in 2025. ARMY fans are buzzing, and the vinyl edition is expected to feature vibrant packaging and exclusive inserts.
Why You Need It: BTS’s K-pop dominance and collectible vinyl make this a global phenomenon.
List Worthy? A must for K-pop and pop collectors.

10. Various Artists – Wicked: The Soundtrack (RSD 2025 Exclusive)

Why It’s Hot: The Wicked movie soundtrack arrives on green and pink glitter vinyl, with a bonus track, Ozdust Duet, exclusive to this 2,000-copy release. Hand-holding cover art adds visual pop.
Why You Need It: The musical’s cultural hype and limited pressing make it a hot commodity.
List Worthy?: Ideal for musical theater and film score fans.