Sam Fender is stepping up as the official ambassador for Record Store Day UK 2025, joining an impressive lineup that includes Kate Bush, Taylor Swift, Noel Gallagher, and Elton John.
As part of the role, he’s shining a light on the vital role independent record shops play in the UK’s music scene, and he’s bringing an exclusive EP along for the ride.
Fender’s Me and the Dog EP will be available as a limited-edition 12” vinyl, hitting shelves on Saturday 12th April, and only at participating indie record stores. The six-track release includes two brand-new songs alongside rarities and fan favourites that have never been pressed to vinyl before.
![SF_MeandTheDogEP[93]](https://spaces.whynow.co.uk/2025/02/SF_MeandTheDogEP93-1024x1024.jpg)
Here’s what fans can expect from the exclusive release:
Side A
- People Watching
- Tyrants (Previously only on the sold-out People Watching 7”)
- Empty Spaces (Previously unreleased)
Side B
- I’m Always On Stage (Previously unreleased)
- Me and the Dog (First time on vinyl, previously only on People Watching CD single)
- People Watching (Live at The O2 Arena, London – first time on vinyl)
Speaking about the honour, Fender is all in: “It’s a complete honour to be asked to be the Ambassador for Record Store Day 2025. The importance of indie stores cannot be understated. Without them, we lose physical spaces for music fans to discover both their favourite new artists and to forge friendships with like-minded people.”
The announcement also comes as Fender gears up for the release of his new album, People Watching, set to feature the work of North East photographer Tish Murtha across its artwork. Originally, Me and the Dog was a contender for the album’s title, now it gets its own moment in the spotlight.
Few artists have championed their hometown quite like Sam Fender, and the feeling is mutual. Alan Jordan, owner of Reflex Records in Newcastle, couldn’t be more excited: “We’re absolutely buzzing to have Sam Fender as this year’s ambassador for Record Store Day. Sam’s a local legend, and the way he’s championed the Northeast and stayed true to his roots is exactly what independent record stores are all about – community, authenticity, and passion for music. Not only that, but he’s a real vinyl fan too! It’s great to see an artist who grew up down the road bring a spotlight on what we do.”
With over 270 indie shops taking part this year, Record Store Day 2025 is set to be another huge celebration of vinyl culture. If you want to get your hands on Me and the Dog, you’d better mark 12th April in your calendar, because once it’s gone, it’s gone.
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