There has been a steady rise in the release of vinyl records from musicians over the last decade. More people seem to prefer the “old school” sound of a crackling record from a player.
Since the first quarter in 2020, the Recording Indstry Association of America (RIAA) reported vinyl increasing steadily in sales, with a Compact Disc (CD) dropping three times as fast. Vinyl records have come up with limited edition releases and custom colors, and other features that have people grabbing them left and right.
So, what’s the significance of vinyl now? And what does it mean for independent labels and musicians like drummers?
Here’s a look into why vinyl has made a comeback – a strive for a time when things were simpler and not to get to engaging the technology of today, as well as how drummers and indie labels benefit from it.
Why The Vinyl Comeback?
The reasons why more people are moving to buying vinyl records can vary. Here are some of the common reasons why people have made the switch back to the custom vinyl records:
- The user experience – vinyl helps make the music more enjoyable, and playing music becomes more of an experience than just a consumption. It can help bring about a creative spark, nostalgia, or transport you when listening through vinyl as opposed to streaming digitally. Records can have a place in time with their better sound, and the sounds of crackles and pops from the record itself can bring about memories that the ultra-clean streamed recording doesn’t.
- The physicality – there’s something to be said about actually holding a piece of music in your hand, versus hearing it through a computer or other such device. Not to mention, sometimes technology doesn’t work right, and we can’t get our favorite tunes through Alexa in the kitchen. Easy to reach for a record and turn in the tunes physically! The physical aspect of the vinyl goes even beyond the vinyl itself, even if it is custom made. Many album covers and included liner notes, thank-you lists, song lyrics, and more can give us a glimpse into the creative processes of your favorite artists and bands, providing more to the whole experience. Some records even have special gifts inside for fans like stickers and posters.
- The value – vinyl is more expensive, but it has more value because of that as well. Limited edition records in particular can be sold at a higher price down the road, giving them added value over the years – not something you can do with downloaded music!
- Indie labels and artists dig them – lastly, anyone who knows anything about music understand that vinyl separates true music lovers from those who claim to be fans. It packs much more of a punch to share your music through a vinyl.
Benefits of Vinyl for Indie Lables and Drummers
Indie labels have enjoyed the benefits that the vinyl comeback brings. Many independent artists include vinyl in their album release because of its popularity.
Indie labels also can reap the benefits of custom record pressing for vinyl labels. Even though it may be more of an added expense, it provides a unique brand for the band that appeals directly to followers and fans, making them more likely to buy it up – especially when it’s limited edition release!
Drummers also have advantages, since vinyl records can sound better than digital format to those who want a realistic sound and prefer musicians to machines and equipment feel full with a vinyl record.
Most records are recorded and mixed to enhance the reality of sound, and this bodes well for drummers and indie labels.
Vinyl in Independent Record Stores
One last reason for percussion driven labels and drummers that helps with having vinyl is the independent record stores. Renewed interest in vinyls helps keep these businesses afloat, turning them into places for communities to gather in their love of the music culture.
There are stores that offer curated selections of records, some with a focus on specific genres or supporting more local indie artists and drummers. It even gives them the opportunity to visit such stores and meet with their fans, offering signed vinyls and a pack of cymbal sets.
Selling online brings in added sales for these independent labels and artists, bringing collectors to their small towns to contribute to growth and visibility. The increase of vinyl record consumption has brought new artists in the mix like Taylor Swift and Adele.
Established artists are re-releasing their albums in vinyl for their fans to experience the added benefits of hearing those drum sounds in a new light! And, while die-hard record collectors aren’t going anywhere soon, hopefully the resurgence of vinyl in the last five years will continue.
