Amoeba Music — Hollywood

Amoeba Music in Hollywood is the largest independent record store in the world, a cathedral of physical music retail that has survived and thrived through the digital revolution. Since opening in 1997 in its original Sunset Boulevard location (relocating to 6200 Hollywood Boulevard in 2021), Amoeba has been a pilgrimage destination for music lovers, offering an overwhelming selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, and memorabilia across every genre. The store regularly hosts free in-store performances by major artists.

Amoeba was founded in Berkeley in 1990 and expanded to San Francisco before opening its flagship Hollywood location. The store became a cultural institution — a place where musicians, DJs, and collectors hunted for rare finds, and where artists from Paul McCartney to Metallica have played intimate sets for fans standing between the racks. Its commitment to physical media and knowledgeable staff represents the best of independent record store culture.

The current Hollywood location at 6200 Hollywood Boulevard (the former Amoeba site on Sunset was redeveloped) continues to operate as a fully stocked record store with regular in-store events. It sits on Hollywood Boulevard near Vine, surrounded by tourist attractions and historic venues. Open daily with extended hours.