Dear music lover,

You couldn't have missed it. The call from the Belgian Entertainment Association to massively play Belgian music under the banner #PlayLocal has been well received by artists, radio stations, media and the general public.

Succes of #PlayLocal

Dozens of artists, from Garry Hagger to Lefto, called on social media to stream and buy Belgian music. Radio stations followed with initiatives to give Belgian music a prominent place in their programs. Minister Benjamin Dalle spread the message among his followers and #PlayLocal anchored itself on social media. For the full media coverage of the initiative, we'd like to refer you to our website, where you'll find the press coverage, artist videos, Belgian playlists and more on #PlayLocal.

New initiative: #LoveRecordStores

Just like the Belgian artists, the independent record stores have been hit hard by the corona crisis. Record stores had to close their doors (physically), which caused the sale of CDs and vinyl to plummet. It is with great pain in the hearts of many that the date for the annual Record Store Day in April has been postponed to a later date, but not to worry: Many of these Belgian record stores remain open online, which is why Belgian Entertainment Association has added an extra section to its website.

On our 'Find Entertainment' page you'll find a list of independent record stores that are 'alive and kicking' online and they deserve a virtual visit. No, it's not the same as flipping through records in search a long awaited release and being inspired by the shop owner. But it comes close, and you’ll make sure that your favorite record store owner is allowed to breathe music once again after the crisis.

Do it. Buy local and share your love and support online by using #LoveRecordStores and #PlayLocal.