'Something I'll always cherish' Cardiff record shop closing down after 30 years

After more than three decades the shop is set to close for good this weekend as its owner is set to retire

A Cardiff record store is closing its doors this weekend after more than 30 years of serving music lovers. D'Vinyl in Roath has built a reputation stretching well beyond the city, attracting visitors from all over the globe with its vast collection of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and music memorabilia.

Owner Steve Collins, who has spent decades curating the shop's impressive collection, will be saying goodbye to the business that became a staple for local music fans.

Steve, a Cardiff native, opened D'Vinyl in 1994 alongside his brother Nigel. Before starting the shop, Steve had a 20-year career as a DJ in Cardiff's club scene. Reflecting on his decision to switch careers, he said: "I had enough of the late nights! It felt like a natural progression and it kept me connected to music – a bit of a selfish reason really!"

Though the shop is small in size, it's known for its "TARDIS" effect—deceptively small on the outside but brimming with treasures inside. Once you step through the door, you're immersed in a world of media: from Star Wars memorabilia to albums by ABBA, ZZ Top and everything in between.

The store is especially renowned for its collection of prog-rock, jazz, blues, folk and disco as well as rare 12-inch singles, live tracks, and demos. One standout item is the £300 signed CD of the Manic Street Preachers' 1992 single Little Baby Nothing, signed by the entire band, including Richey Edwards.

"I don't specialise in anything in particular," Steve explained. "But we've always had a great variety of music here—across every genre—and the goal has always been to make people happy."

One of his most memorable sales was a rare copy of Please Please Me by The Beatles on the Gold Label, which sold for £900. "I am a big Beatles fan," he said. "The Double White album stands to be one of my favourite albums ever." Never miss a Cardiff story by signing up to our daily newsletter here

Over the years, Steve has seen a steady stream of customers pass through his doors, forging lasting friendships along the way. "We've been lucky to build such great relationships with our customers," Steve said. "I've had former students come back with their families over the years, and the shop has become a bit of a tradition for them."

Thanks to word-of-mouth, D'Vinyl has drawn visitors from around the world, making it not just a record shop but a community hub. "In the music scene, people talk and this place has been recommended to others from across the world. The connections we've made here, with people from all over, have been very special and are something I'll always cherish."

Reflecting on the trends he’s witnessed over the years, Steve noted the resurgence of vinyl. "I wasn't surprised when vinyl came back," he said. "We've always had them, and people love the sound. It's such a unique experience." He also mentioned the way the death of icons like David Bowie and Freddie Mercury led to a surge of interest in their music. "It’s sad, though," he remarked. “Why not buy it while they’re still around making music?”

Now, at 74, Steve is ready to retire. "I've done my time," he said with a laugh. "I need a holiday! I want to spend more time with my family and enjoy life a little."

To announce his retirement Steve took to social media to thank his loyal customers, adding: "I've had so many messages from people wanting to say goodbye, but who couldn't make it last week. So, I decided to open for a few final days this week—Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday—while I wrap things up. Thanks again to everyone for an incredible 31 years."

His post was met with much love from former customers, with one reminiscing: "Used to go here all the time when I lived in Roath. Got so many bargains here, but more than that, the personal service was always amazing. I was always blown away by asking Steve if he had a particular item, and he had his entire, immense stock all catalogued in his head. In the wall was a CD copy of the JEEP album, signed by Stereophonics. Always wanted it, but never got round to buying it. All the best for your retirement Steve, will definitely pop in for one last look around on Saturday!"

Another added: "Hi Steve, big HELLOS from Miroslav (peace celebrator) from The Czech Republic, your 2009-2019 regular customer. All the best to you and your family! You were one of the two people because of whom I was coming back to Cardiff." Steve's last day of trading will officially be Saturday, April 5.