Vinyl records are regaining their long-lost glory after a hiatus of almost 80 years. They were the only available music records for most of the 20th century before getting stiff competition from cassettes and compact discs (CDs). By the early 2000s, vinyl records were nearing extinction with less than 1% of the total sales in the industry. The advent of digital streaming was predicted to be the final nail in its coffin. However, the opposite happened. It started soaring high again in the United States and beat CD sales by 2023. This was thought to be unbelievable until it happened and the trend continues. Why could this be the case?
This revival has surprised everyone. The initial downfall led to the closure of most vinyl record pressing factories so the revitalization was a major shocker. The demand has often surpassed the supply – and this has further increased their value. Some modern-age artists like Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift have recorded their music in this version. This has heightened their popularity.
All industries tend to go back to their roots. This explains why the advent of fabulous online casinos like Bruce Bet Casino hasn’t impacted the popularity of physical casinos. Gamblers still flock to Las Vegas annually to enjoy the glitz and glamour of gambling yet they can experience that in the comfort of their homes. The same has been seen in the mobile phone and the film industries. What could be fueling this exciting trend?
1. Tangibility
The tangibility of vinyl records makes them so sensational. They arouse a form of sentimentality that gives them a magical touch. Music enthusiasts love how much care and precision is involved in handling these records. You must put a lot of thought into the music before you start listening to it. Your music collection could be big so the first step is combing it carefully to find the right record. Then, you should clean the record and the turntable needle using special cleaning fluids and equipment before placing it in the right spot.
Afterward, you can set it in motion and lower the needle to start playing the music. The process may not be efficient but its tangibility makes it so sensational. People also store their records in special authorized-access-only areas. This creates a sense of pride and ownership that is impossible to find in other records.
2. Sound Quality
Vinyls are considered to have superb music quality. They retain the depth and the original sounds of the songs. Modern formats tend to be altered because of compression thus losing some essential elements. True audio lovers always appreciate the original nature of vinyl record music.
Some enthusiasts also argue that the music appeals to more than just the sense of hearing. Since they are tangible, they appeal to the sense of touch and sight that builds more excitement. The cover art is also well-designed to complement the record so it plays a part in increasing its popularity. Some of them also have a unique smell that arouses an extra sense. This multi-sensory appeal complements the quality aspects.
3. New Age of Collectors
Collectors love vinyl records since they take us back to the original essence of music. Some collectibles are usually passed through multiple generations so each generation aims to improve the collection. They love the latest releases as well as the old and forgotten ones across all music genres. These are unique collectibles because they are rarely found in garage sales and thrift stores. Only selected record stores offer them while stocks last.
The demand for vinyl records increased drastically during the 2020 pandemic. Most people had sufficient time and many developed an interest in record collection. During this time, this industry witnessed some record-breaking sales. The shocking thing is that it is fueled by digital generations like Gen Zs and millennials who want a taste of what they may have missed.
4. Increased Availability
The revival of a dead industry is usually complex, however, the vinyl records industry has tried almost successfully to come up. Many record-pressing industries have either been reopened or expanded to meet the demand. They include the following:
- Citizen Vinyl;
- Waxxy Poodle;
- Copycats Media;
- United Record;
- Memphis Record.
These industries are located in various cities and are all committed to meeting the rising demand. The pandemic harmed them leading to customers’ frustrations but they have since recovered.
Vinyl records are selling out in the digital age because of their tangibility, better sound quality, and the new age of collectors. They have renewed the music culture that was admirable in the 20th century. This renewed interest has survived the test of time and seems unlikely to falter. This is among the biggest comebacks in the world.
