Beth Ray Writes

It’s February, the month of lurrrrve so if you wanted to treat the music lover(s) in your life you might want to get them that extra special gift to make them swoon.
I’ve included below my favourite gifts for Valentine’s Day and make sure to comment yours if there are any i’ve missed. First up there are some great vinyl releases this Valentine’s Day from The Wombats, Rizzle Kicks and the deluxe album version of Short n’ Sweet from Sabrina Carpenter . Keep reading for some more inspiration and a reminder that I am not affiliated with any of these products nor do I benefit by writing about them. It’s basically a list of what I’d like for myself on Valentine’s xoxo

Self Esteem Valentine’s Day Cards
Self Esteem has gone above and beyond for Valentine’s Day by releasing her own Valentine’s Day cards. There are 6 to choose from with cards saying “To Me You Feel Like The Middle Of A Yawn” and “I don’t care about much but I care about you” you’re guaranteed to find the right message for your loved one.

NME The Cover 2023–2024
I love a coffee book table. Especially a fancy one with cool, new and upcoming artists (although since these artists were featured quite a few of them are very famous now, especially the likes of Chappell Roan and Royel Otis) so this is a must for the music lover out there. If not just to read the interviews and see the cool photo shoots with the artists. Buy it here.

Dork Magazine Subscription
I love a music magazine and because there are so few of them around now so it is important we cherish those that are still going. So give the thoughtful and sweet, sweet gift of music journalism with a Dork subscription or even a copy of an issue with their favourite artist on the cover.

Sabrina Carpenter Please Please Please Mirror
It’s super glittery, it’s super gorgeous, get that special someone a vanity mirror for when they are on the go whilst also celebrating one of the best pop singles from 2024. Sabrina Carpenter’s merch shop is top tier, I would of suggested her espresso cup if it wasn’t sold out, so for now the mirror will have to suffice. Buy it here.

Record Store Voucher
This one is fool proof. Do they like music? Do they like vinyls? Can’t remember what vinyls they have and don’t have? Then make sure to buy them a Record Store Day gift voucher so they can choose for you! Plus it means you’re supporting your local record shop which is an extra bonus. Buy your voucher here.

Not Going Home by Mischa Haller (Photographs of Post Club Britain 1998)
A collection of photographs from Mischa Haller this book is guaranteed to bring 90’s club nostalgia for all of those who grew up in that era. Featuring photos from the moments that occur after the night out, the waiting for the taxi on the street, the chatting with friends and eating your chips, the moments of sobering up as you walk home arm in arm with friends – this is a great collection of photos from the British Culture Archive. It’s a bargain at £12 go and buy it here.

A Band Tshirt
I feel as though you can never have too many band tees. Maybe it’s just me but either way if you’re really struggling then google their favourite band and get them a band tee or cap (bands always sell caps these days). I’ve chosen the Blossoms Gary tee because I’m yet to own one. Buy it here.

A Music Biography
I read “From Here To The Great Unknown” by Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough in only a few days because of how fascinating it was to read about growing up in the shadow of Elvis. As a music lover and a book lover this present would be a win-win. Buy it for the book worm in your life here.

Self Esteem Music Box
I know I’ve already included Self Esteem but her merch is really good. She’s spoken before on the podcast Sidetracked with Annie Macmanus and Nick Grimshaw about how much thought goes into her merch and I haven’t seen anyone else sell a music box. So give the gift of Self Esteem’s music ‘I Do This All The Time’ for the Self Esteem fan in your life. Buy it here.

Finally, the big present that is the big win for Valentine’s….. GIG TICKETS. It’s a night out, who cares if you know the artist or not you could surprise yourself and love them! And if you are definitely not a fan then you’ve supported a music venue and a new artist. Good karma for you.

So I hope this has provided some Valentine’s inspiration and if anything else it can always be just a gift for yourself.