Navigating the world of vinyl collecting as a transgender and queer couple has presented unique challenges, including frequent misgendering and exclusion from established spaces. Despite these hurdles, the founders of Keyring Records have not only found success but have also actively worked to make the record-collecting community more welcoming and accessible, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Establishing a Presence in the Vinyl Community

The journey for the couple, who began selling records in 2024, was marked by instances of being misidentified. One notable encounter occurred at a Brighton record fair when a man approached them, addressing them as “ladies.” When corrected, the individual expressed confusion about the term “transgender.” This experience, while jarring, highlighted a broader issue: the often male-dominated and cisgender-centric nature of many record-collecting circles.

When they first entered the scene, they were often among the few, if not the only, queer or transgender dealers present. Two years later, while the landscape has seen some evolution, the core challenge of creating inclusive spaces persists. However, the couple has focused on their own growth and success, aiming to dismantle barriers within the community.

The Genesis of Keyring Records

Keyring Records was founded with a specific mission: to foster a more inclusive and enjoyable environment for queer record enthusiasts. The passion for vinyl began in the founder’s teenage years, sparked by a gift of a turntable and a trip to HMV. Early influences included iconic albums like Joni Mitchell’s ‘Blue,’ Carole King’s ‘Tapestry,’ and David Bowie’s ‘Ziggy Stardust,’ which fostered a deep connection to music and its physical format.

The resurgence of vinyl in the 2010s brought renewed interest, but the market, especially for new vinyl, became increasingly expensive and exclusive. The couple recognized that the world of secondhand records, while potentially more accessible, often felt closed off to newcomers, particularly those outside the traditional demographic.

A Fortuitous Inheritance and a New Venture

The opportunity to enter the record-selling business arose when the founder moved in with their partner, Colin, in 2024. While jobless and seeking direction, they discovered a substantial collection of records belonging to Colin’s late uncle. With permission from the family, they inherited approximately 700 records, primarily from the 80s and 90s dance and punk genres, featuring artists like The Clash and the Sex Pistols. This collection, unknowingly worth thousands, provided the foundation for their business.

To navigate the market, they educated themselves on pricing and cataloging using platforms like Discogs, a comprehensive online database and marketplace for music. Their first record fair, in August 2024, was met with a mix of excitement and apprehension. They felt somewhat out of place with their distinctive stall setup – a large pink tablecloth and a vibrant aesthetic that contrasted with the more subdued, traditional displays often seen.

Challenging the Status Quo at Record Fairs

The traditional record fair model, largely unchanged since the 1980s, often involves gatherings in rented halls where predominantly male dealers discuss prices and hunt for specific pressings. While many dealers were cordial and friendships were formed, the couple’s presence, marked by their visual style and age difference, often made them feel like outliers. They observed that while some attendees might overlook their stall, others, particularly younger queer individuals seeking contemporary artists or niche genres like J-Pop, found a welcoming space.

This realization transformed their perceived “niceness” into a strength. They began curating their inventory based on the interests of their peers and younger collectors, leveraging their understanding of current pop music and genres that might be considered special interests. This shift in focus allowed them to connect with a broader and more diverse customer base.

Founding the Hove Record Fair

Building on their experiences and growing community, the couple decided to create their own event. In 2025, they launched the Hove Record Fair, hosted at a local pub. Since its inception, the fair has seen a noticeable increase in attendees with diverse styles and identities, including individuals with brightly colored hair, adorned jackets, and varied pronouns. This transformation reflects the success of their efforts to cultivate a more inclusive atmosphere.

The founder now dedicates significant time to engaging with young queer attendees, offering them a space to share their passion for music without reservation. The initial apprehension towards those who might not understand their approach has been replaced by a profound sense of pride in being a queer record dealer with a distinctive, colorful presence.

Fostering Queer Hope and Joy

The initiative behind Keyring Records aligns with broader efforts to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community. By creating spaces where queer individuals feel seen, valued, and understood, they contribute to a sense of belonging and resilience. The success of their venture demonstrates that inclusivity can thrive even in traditionally exclusive environments, offering a model for other communities to follow.

Their story is part of a larger narrative highlighting the vibrancy, diversity, and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community, aiming to spread hope and joy during times when it is particularly needed.