(04.13.09) NARM, the official sponsor of Record Store Day, is announcing that over 1,000 record stores around the globe will be celebrating music together on Saturday, April 18.

This second annual event was created to recognize the profound positive impact local retail shops have had on the world of music over the years. Participating countries include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Greece, the Netherlands, Israel, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

NARM President Jim Donio will participate in the festivities in New York City, where a proclamation from Mayor Bloomberg will officially declare April 18 as Record Store Day. These events will take place at J&R Music and Computer World, the iconic retailer headed by NARM Chairman Rachelle Friedman.

Jim Donio says, “NARM is very proud to sponsor Record Store Day ’09 and thrilled to join the celebration in Manhattan.” He continued, “In today’s challenging marketplace, it is refreshing to recognize our many retailers’ thriving and successful businesses. Independent retailers around the world encompass a passion and enthusiasm that truly enhances the commerce and enriches the culture within their communities. We believe NARM’s support will energize and inspire local retail partners and organizers to continue celebrating music across the globe.”

In addition to the prestigious proclamation from Mayor Bloomberg’s office, J&R will present live music and offer special promotions throughout the day, including free performances and autograph signings by national recording artists.

Across the United States, hundreds of other live performances and signings will be featured at many participating retail outlets in cities and towns throughout the country. All confirmed musical appearances are listed on the official The Record Store Day website: www.recordstoreday.com

NARM advances the promotion, marketing, distribution and sale of music by providing its members with a forum for diverse meeting and networking opportunities, information and education to support their businesses, as well as advocating for their common interests. NARM is based in Marlton, New Jersey. Website: www.narm.com.

Record Store Day is organized by the Music Monitor Network, the Coalition of Independent Music Stores (CIMS), Alliance of Independent Media Stores (AIMS) and Newbury Comics.