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Wednesday 28th August 2024 - Sharna Bennett
Why vinyl records are experiencing a renaissance and what makes them a must-have for collectors.
In a world dominated by the likes of Spotify and Apple Music, it might seem surprising that vinyl records are experiencing a significant resurgence. However, the tangible appeal of vinyl has captured the hearts of long-time collectors and new generations alike. This resurgence has made platforms like Easy Live Auction essential for discovering rare and collectable vinyl records from auction houses around the world. With an ever-changing selection of catalogues, you never know what you might find! — Like this incredibly rare Sex Pistols single which recently smashed world records at auction.
Highly sought after, The Sex Pistols' infamously rare "God Save The Queen" single fetched a world record hammer price at auction.
Search vinyl records on Easy Live Auction here.
In this post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the vinyl revival, the unique aspects of collecting vinyl, and why such an analogue format continues to thrive in a digital age.
Vinyl records have seen an astonishing comeback over the past decade. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), vinyl sales have been steadily increasing since the early 2000s, with 2022 marking the 17th consecutive year of growth. In fact, for the first time since the ‘80s, vinyl outsold CDs in 2021, cementing its place as a significant player in the music industry once again.
This revival is quickly reclaiming its place as a global phenomenon. Record stores, once on the brink of extinction, are thriving - and vinyl pressings of both classic albums and new releases are in high demand. So, what’s driving this resurgence?
One of the primary reasons for the vinyl comeback is the unique experience it offers. Unlike digital music, which is often intangible and easily consumed, vinyl records provide a tactile and immersive experience. From the moment you remove the record from its sleeve right up to the moment of placing the needle on the groove, playing a vinyl record is like a ritual, engaging the senses.
Vinyl collectors often speak of the "warmth" of analogue sound — a richness and depth that many believe digital sound lacks. This warmth is due to the continuous sound wave that vinyl records produce, as opposed to the digital format's sampling of sound. This creates a fuller, more natural listening experience that many listeners prefer.
Hear Jimi Hendrix’s prodigy in full clarity: This collection of 6 Jimi Hendrix Rarities — all privately released, including live material and demos — is available in Brilliant Auctions’ 29th August sale.
Vinyl records are also appreciated for their larger album covers and detailed liner notes, which often include lyrics, artwork, and photographs that are lost in smaller CD booklets, or absent altogether in digital downloads. The physicality of holding a vinyl album, often with elaborate and artistically designed covers, adds something tangible to the overall enjoyment and connection to the music.
Nostalgia has played a significant role in the vinyl revival. For many collectors, vinyl records represent a return to a simpler time, when music was consumed with greater care and intention, and was less readily available. This sense of nostalgia is not just limited to older generations; younger listeners, who grew up in the digital age, are also drawn to the raw authenticity that vinyl records represent.
This vintage Pye 'Black Box' portable gramophone, with Monarch record changer playing deck, c.1955, might need its connections checking, but it still works perfectly. Find it in James & Sons Auctioneers’ 2nd September sale.
Collecting vinyl records often involves sifting through crates at record stores, antique fairs, garage sales, and at auction—a process that digital downloads simply can’t replicate. This "thrill of the search" adds an element of discovery to the hobby, as collectors search for rare pressings, original issues, and hidden gems.
For many collectors, vinyl records are a way to connect with music history. Owning an original pressing of a classic album feels like holding a piece of that era. This connection is something that streaming a song on Spotify or Apple Music can’t replicate, no matter how convenient it may be.
Interestingly, the vinyl revival isn’t just being driven by older generations nostalgic for the past—Millennials and Gen Z are also playing a significant role in the resurgence.
Younger generations have grown up in an age of instant gratification where music is just a tap away. This constant access to digital media can often feel overwhelming, leading to a desire for something more tangible and personal. Vinyl provides an antidote to this digital overload, offering a way to slow down and appreciate music in a more intentional manner.
The rise of retro and vintage trends has also influenced younger generations’ interest in vinyl. From fashion to home decor, there’s a growing appreciation for items that carry a sense of the so-called ‘olden days.’ Vinyl records fit perfectly into this trend, offering a physical connection to the past that resonates with younger audiences who value authenticity and individuality.
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have played a crucial role in popularising vinyl among younger users. The aesthetic appeal of vinyl records, with their large, colourful album covers and retro vibe, makes them perfect for sharing online.
For many young collectors, part of the appeal lies in curating a visually appealing collection that can be proudly displayed and shared.
Start your vinyl collection in style with this vintage Monarch record player, complete with a plethora of LPs to proudly display. Available at Eastbourne Auctions’ 3rd September sale. View entire catalogue here.
In an era where music is often consumed conveniently for free - or through low-cost streaming services, buying vinyl is seen as a tangible way to directly support artists. Younger generations are increasingly aware of the economic challenges faced by musicians in the digital age, and purchasing vinyl is one way to contribute to the sustainability of the music industry while simultaneously obtaining a physical piece of art.
The vinyl revival has not gone unnoticed by the music industry. Many artists now release their albums on record, often with exclusive features like coloured vinyl, special edition sleeves, or bonus tracks not available on other formats. For artists, releasing music on vinyl adds a layer of prestige and permanence that digital formats lack; and for listeners, it’s a way to own the music in a physical format that feels more valuable and lasting than a digital file.
The resurgence of vinyl records is a clear testimony to the appeal of tangible music in an increasingly digital world — be it through the tactile experience, the rich sound quality, or even simply the connection to history via music, vinyl records offer something that digital formats cannot replicate.
For many, there is a larger sentimental value to collecting vinyl as a way of slowing down, savouring music, and appreciating the meticulous care that goes into every album. As the vinyl revival continues, it’s clear that this classic format has re-secured its rightful place in the future of music.
If you’re interested in starting or expanding your vinyl collection, explore the many auctions available on Easy Live Auction. With a wide range of records up for bid, there’s always something new to uncover.
Register now, and happy collecting!
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