If vinyl records were most popular in the 1960s and 70s, how are they still being sold at such high rates today?
The year is 2023 and vinyl record sales are on the incline yet again. Since their peak in sales in 1978, the vinyl record industry has looked similar to winter sun in Eugene, Oregon–extremely inconsistent, yet sought after by many. “43.46 million vinyl albums were sold in 2022 (up 4.2% from 41.72 million in 2021). 2022 was the 17th consecutive year vinyl album sales grew in the U.S., and the largest year for vinyl album sales since Luminate began tracking data in 1991” (Link to article). The popularization of vinyl records is consistently increasing every year… “but why?” you ask. Below are three reasons why artists continue to successfully sell vinyl records today.
There’s something aesthetic about it…
With digital streaming being such a predominant platform in today’s society, music lovers are constantly searching for ways to immerse themselves in the experience of listening to an album. The younger generations have latched onto the hype of vinyl records partially for the aesthetic of the vintage feel that they bring. They are simply a piece of art. Being able to have the record cover and a disc, sometimes colorful, is very special. They give more than just something to listen to. It’s a full experience. It’s so much more appealing than pressing the play button on your smartphone and people are gravitating towards the more fascinating option.
The music is captivating…
I don’t know if it’s the vintage sound of the disc spinning, but the musical melodies that come out of a record player are superior to other methods of listening. Digital is cold, while vinyl is warm. The sound of a vinyl will fill up a room with a vibrant feeling. Nothing stands between you and the music. Not to forget, the process of opening up the sleeve, pulling out a beautiful disc, setting it on the platter, lifting the tone arm and delicately setting the stylus on the outermost edge of the record is an incomparable process. Placing it at the right spot, just before the sound vibrations come through, creates the perfect segway into lending an ear to your chosen album.
They prompt conversation…
Having a collection of vinyls on display in your home has always been a topic of conversation. Since their most popular days in the 70s and 80s, families would have their record collections out for show in their living rooms. Flipping through someone’s record library will tell you a lot about the person or household. Almost every one of my friends have some sort of collection on display. Whether it’s in a box beside their record player, framed on a wall or piled up on a living room table; they will be seen by any guest. If I’m in a house I’ve never been to and they have a record collection, I will certainly be looking closely and starting a conversation with the host about their music taste.
Among many other reasons, vinyl records remain a constant factor in the music industry. Their many appeals have held strong in today’s society and will be seen as relics and works of art for as long as I live, hopefully longer than that.