Record Store Day Enrolls Bruno Mars As 2026 Ambassador

Record Store Day 2026 will be held on Saturday, April 18. Championing the annual event that supports independent record stores as this year’s Record Store Day Ambassador is Bruno Mars.

Mars will preview his long-awaited new album The Romantic at listening parties held at participating record stores across the United States on Wednesday, February 25. The record, Mars’ first full-length solo release since 2016’s 24K Magic, will be released on Friday, February 27.

“Independent record stores are so important because you get the chance to immerse and surround yourself with music and that’s why I’m so excited to be this year’s Record Store Day Ambassador,” Mars said. “I love collecting vinyl because nothing is better than sitting on your couch putting on a record and just listening to music like that. It feels like a lost art. To actually sit down, put a record on, and consume it is a very romantic idea. Go out and support your local independent record store on Record Store Day this year.”

Post Malone served the role of last year’s RSD Ambassador. Taylor Swift, Pearl Jam, St. Vincent, Brandi Carlile, Metallica, Dave Grohl, Paramore and Jason Isbell & Amanda Shires are among other past Record Store Day Ambassadors.