Slow Century Records, a community record shop and label in Knowle, celebrates its first birthday this weekend and is marking the occasion with a full day of live music.

Happening on Sat 7 Nov, the indie Solihull brand will present a live performance featuring Birmingham’s psych-funk outfit Sweetpool, who released their debut album on the Slow Century Records label earlier this year, along with additional DJs and artists across neighbouring businesses.

A ten-hour programme across six venues will mark Slow Century’s first birthday, reinforcing the business’s commitment to promoting music and togetherness across the West Midlands.

Since launching just 12 months ago, Slow Century Records has been nominated for a series of local and national awards, recognising the work of the shop and label within the music industry, and its contribution to business and culture in the local community.

Since November 2025, the Knowle High Street shop has been nominated for the UK’s Best Independent Record Shop Award by the Association of Independent Music, and the Best Breakout Business prize at the annual Solihull Chamber of Commerce Awards.

John Ellis, owner of Slow Century Records, said: “What an incredible first year it’s been! From Record Store Day and Summer Jam to live performances, new friendships and a wonderful community of music lovers, it’s been quite a journey.

“The thing we’re most proud of is the wonderful community we’ve built around Slow Century Records.

“We’ve made some fantastic friends and created something that feels like so much more than a record shop.

“Whether you’ve supported us from day one or discovered us along the way, you’re part of our story and we want you there celebrating with us!”

The birthday celebration will see live sets and performances from artists and DJs between 10am – 8.30pm, including Anthony Merrick, Disc Selecta, Liz Lilacs, Loving The Alien, Marc Cijfer, Shed Men Walking and Sweetpool.

Music will take place across The Ale Rooms, Cristal Boutique, Freda’s Deli, Slow Century Records, Tudor Grange Park and The Vaults.

The Tudor Grange Park performances are ticketed as part of the Solihull Round Table Bonfire and Fireworks evening, with all other performances free.

Full Slow Century Records one-year birthday programme: 

10am – Freda’s Deli | Marc Cijfer (free)

11am – Cristal Boutique | Liz Lilacs (free)

12pm – Slow Century Records | John Ellis (free)

1pm – Slow Century Records | SWEETPOOL LIVE (free)

2pm – Slow Century Records | Disc Selecta (free)

3pm – The Ale Rooms | Anthony Merrick (free)

6pm – Tudor Grange Park | Marc Cijfer (ticketed)

7pm – Tudor Grange Park | Shed Men Walking (ticketed)

8.30pm – The Vaults | LOVING THE ALIEN (free)

For more information, visit the Slow Century Records website.