Essay 4: The Resurgence of Vinyl Records
Vinyl records, once relics of the past, are spinning back into cultural relevance. In 2024, vinyl outsold CDs
in the U.S. for the third consecutive year, driven by nostalgia and a craving for tangible music
experiences. Unlike streaming’s fleeting clicks, vinyl offers a ritual—flipping sides, admiring album art,
hearing the needle’s crackle. Collectors, from Gen Z to boomers, cherish its warmth and authenticity.
Independent record stores thrive, hosting listening parties and local artists. Yet, vinyl’s revival isn’t
without flaws; production is resource-intensive, and prices can exclude casual fans. Still, its resurgence
reflects a desire to slow down and savor art in a digital age. Vinyl reminds us that sometimes, the old
ways resonate most deeply.