3 reasons records are making a comeback
In recent years, vinyl records have made a comeback. As streaming music through apps such as Spotify is seen as more convenient, many people automatically choose to listen to their favourite artists this way. However, this does not mean that physical formats are decreasing in popularity.
According to the British Phonographic Industry, revenue produced from vinyl sales actually grew by 650% in the last decade. But why are people choosing to listen to audio this way?
1. The sound
A vinyl is more than a pretty piece of plastic; it sounds different. If you’ve ever listened to a classic LP or album through this medium, you’ll have more than likely noticed how full and warm the music sounds. This is because, unlike digital formats like streaming, records play music in a way that is less compressed. Because of this, the sound it makes feels more alive and natural.
You can actually hear layers to the track, which are usually missed when streamed, and the little crackle and pop sounds makes you stop and pay attention, meaning you properly listen to the record.
2. The experience
The whole experience of listening to a vinyl is special. There’s more to it than clicking a button on your phone. There’s a whole ritual involved.
You have to first find and pick up the physical record, rather than search for it on an app. Then you go through the process of setting up the turntable and carefully dropping the needle, all before the sound plays. Doing all this just to hear the songs makes listening feel more intentional. Additionally, as it’s trickier to skip songs, you also end up listening to the whole album, in the correct order, exactly like the artist intended.
There’s also something really satisfying about flipping the record halfway through. It’s a hands-on and engaging way to listen to and enjoy music, and a welcome change from the world of quick, disposable listening.
3. The exclusivity
Something about a vinyl feels unique. Many artists decide to release limited-edition vinyls with unique covers or coloured records, making them feel exclusive and rare. Plus, if you get your hands on a rare pressing, there is potential that they will become valuable in the years to come.
For collectors, this tends to add extra value as you’re not just buying music, you’re in fact buying a piece of the artist’s work. A lot of them also include extra content like bonus artwork, lyrics, and sometimes even tracks. This adds to the feeling of exclusivity and makes the medium feel a lot more personal than digital downloads or streaming.
Final thoughts…
Records bring something real and tangible to the table. Not only do they sound better, but they also often look better, and make you feel like a part of something bigger. The physicality and experience of a record is something different, and a welcome change from common disposable audio.
If you’re new to the vinyl format, start by purchasing an album from an artist you love. The connection you’ll feel when you experience their work in this medium will make it all worthwhile.
