Here is a concept: on May 27th, 2011 (A random date), why doesn't Farmer Bruce Springsteen release a five song EP of the new songs on vinyl only, to, say, 2000 record stores across the country.
Imagine the influx of customers through that oen move alone?
Will he? No. Will anybody do a fucking thing after April 16th? Not a sausage. Bugger all. Nothing. Record stores will go merrily on their way to oblivion but, hey, at least Foo got their photo op.
This may sound typical rock nyc attitude but really, think about it: if instead of blowing their load on one day, the caring rock stars of the world brought in a steady stream of customers, wouldn't it be better.
Look at it this way: what if Walmart only opened Christmas Eve? Sales would be terrific but they wouldn't make up for the rest of the year, would they?
Tone down Record Store day and maintain a consistent presence. Not as cute. Not as Photo-Op, But a damn sight more effective, if anybody could be bothered thinkling about it.