I’m going to catch some crap for this. But it’s time to dispel the vinyl myth.
It’s true that record sales are up, particularly among those under 30. But it’s a tiny blip compared to streaming services. I’m convinced that the vinyl resurgence is a novelty. Its success is more about brilliant marketing, and less about the music. Sure, vinyl was awesome in its day. But, technology has marched on – and portability wins over nostalgic charm.
Audiophiles will rave about the warm, rich sound of vinyl. Sorry, I’m not buying it. If you’ve got $5,000 for a sweet sound system, go for it. But most people can’t tell the difference and are fine with listening with ear buds.
Before you get your panties in a bunch, hear me out. I’m a longtime vinyl fan who spent years in the radio/music business. I worked at Tower Records and spent most of my college years listening to albums. Over time, I built an amazing collection including rare, signed and platinum records.
But I just sold them all.
Here’s my take. Let’s face it. The best part about vinyl wasn’t the fidelity. It was the experience of listening while poring over the album art, band pictures and liner notes. With that gone, records just aren’t worth the bother anymore. But for me, digital music is perfectly fine.
Soon, Vinylmania will ease and take its place alongside 45s, cassettes and 8-tracks. I won’t miss flipping the disc every 15 minutes. No more warps, skips and scratches during soft passages. No more back pain from lugging around wooden record crates.
I’ll get over selling my albums. It’s time for someone else to enjoy them.
