The Vinyl Revival: Why Records Are Spinning Back Into Popularity
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New Delhi – A surprising trend is reshaping the music landscape: vinyl records are experiencing a significant comeback. Driven by a desire for tangible experiences and a break from digital saturation, a new generation is discovering the unique appeal of analog sound and the ritual of record collecting.
from Obscurity to Resurgence
Vinyl records,once eclipsed by cassette tapes,compact discs,and digital streaming,enjoyed a period of prominence in Indian households during the 1960s. Though, their popularity waned with the advent of newer technologies. Now, a renewed interest is fueling a remarkable resurgence, not through nostalgia alone, but through a deliberate embrace by younger listeners.
This shift reflects a broader cultural movement toward “slow living,” a conscious rejection of the relentless pace of modern life. As reported by India Today, this trend is gaining traction across demographics here.
A New Generation of collectors
Abhay Panwar, owner of Pagal Records Store in Delhi’s hauz Khas, notes that 60 percent of his daily customers are first-time vinyl buyers, predominantly in their 20s. Panwar took over the store from its Italian founder, Joe, preserving a haven for music enthusiasts. He observed a dip in sales during and immediately following the COVID-19 pandemic, but reports a ample recovery in recent months.
“I was always close to the store even before I took over last year - I would visit often, knew the staff, got insights, and even learned how to play records there,” Panwar said. “So I knew how sales were then and how they are now. before Covid, sales were very good. They dropped during and after Covid, but they’re picking up significantly again now.”
This trend isn’t limited to India. Globally, the vinyl market is experiencing robust growth. Jude de Souza, owner of The Revolver Club in Mumbai, estimates the global market size at between USD 1.8 billion and USD 2.1 billion in the mid-2020s, with projections reaching USD 4.5 billion by the end of the decade.
Amazon India also confirms a double-digit year-over-year increase in demand for turntables,including models like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Stereo Turntable and the claw Stag Portable Vinyl Record Player Turntable. Zeba Khan, Director, Consumer Electronics at Amazon India, notes a growing preference for premium turntables with USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Appeal of Analog
beyond the warmth of analog sound, the resurgence of vinyl is rooted in a desire for a more immersive and focused listening experience. Unlike the passive consumption often associated with streaming, vinyl demands active engagement.
Did You Know? The physical act of selecting, handling, and playing a record fosters a deeper connection to the music and the artist.
“For me, it’s the process,” explains Utkarsh J, a 25-year-old DJ based in Delhi who performs at Genre, Delhi’s first vinyl-only bar. “It’s the essence of digging for unexplored music and getting wholly involved in it.I’m very much an album person, so the process of going through an entire album and finding great tunes is a deeply satisfying part of the experience.”
Sanjana, a 23-year-old from Mumbai, echoes this sentiment, describing the act of discovering an album in a record store and making a deliberate purchase as far more satisfying than simply adding a song to a digital playlist.
“I’ll give a song a proper listen, then a few more tracks, and only after that decide if I like the album enough to buy it. The purchase is more thoughtful because I want to make sure it’s something I’ll enjoy for years,” she says.
Vinyl encourages listeners to experience albums as complete artistic statements, as intended by the artist. This contrasts with the fragmented listening habits often fostered by streaming services.
Pro Tip: When starting a vinyl collection, consider investing in a quality turntable and a record cleaning kit to preserve your investment.
Industry Response and Future Outlook
The growing demand for vinyl is prompting investment in infrastructure. India is poised to receive its first record-pressing plant in four decades, signaling a commitment to supporting the burgeoning vinyl culture. Moreover, vinyl-only clubs are emerging, providing dedicated spaces for enthusiasts to share and celebrate the format.
Brands are also recognizing the appeal of vinyl, integrating it into product launches and marketing campaigns. Utkarsh J recently performed at a Suntory Toki Whisky event in Delhi’s Dhan Mill, showcasing the format’s growing cultural relevance.
Kunal Singh Chhabra, co-founder of the vinyl-only bar Genre, notes the evolving perception of vinyl. “When we opened in October 2023, it was a novelty for many. People would say, ‘Wow, you play on records?’ Over time, as more places have adopted this culture, it’s become slightly more familiar. We now host Selectors Nights – you don’t have to be a DJ, you can just bring your records and we curate an evening around them.”
The Cost of the Experience
While the appeal of vinyl is undeniable, it’s not an inexpensive hobby. Records typically range from Rs 1,500 to Rs 6,000, depending on rarity and condition. Turntables start around Rs 8,000, and the delicate nature of the format requires careful handling to avoid damaging the equipment or the records themselves.
| Component | Approximate Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Vinyl Record (Average) | 1,500 - 6,000 |
| Turntable (Entry-Level) | 8,000+ |
| Record Cleaning Kit | 1,000 – 3,000 |
| Gen Z Starter Pack (Turntable + Speakers) | 33,000 |
Despite the costs,many enthusiasts view vinyl as an investment in a more meaningful and immersive musical experience. What role do you think vinyl will play in the future of music consumption?
Will the vinyl revival continue to gain momentum, or is it a fleeting trend? Only time will tell, but for now, the sound of vinyl is once again filling homes and capturing the hearts of a new generation.
The Enduring Appeal of Analog
The resurgence of vinyl is part of a broader trend toward appreciating tangible, physical media in a digital age. this phenomenon extends to other formats, such as film photography and printed books. The tactile experience, the sense of ownership, and the deliberate act of engagement all contribute to the appeal. Furthermore,the limitations of analog formats – the need to flip a record,the potential for surface noise – can paradoxically enhance the listening experience,forcing a greater level of attention and gratitude.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vinyl
- What is vinyl? Vinyl is a synthetic material used to create records that store audio details in grooves.
- Why is vinyl making a comeback? A desire for a more immersive listening experience and a break from digital saturation are key factors.
- How much does a vinyl setup cost? Costs vary, but a basic setup (turntable and a few records) can start around Rs 10,000.
- Is vinyl better than digital audio? That’s subjective. Vinyl offers a different sonic experience, often described as warmer and more natural.
- Where can I buy vinyl records? Records are available at dedicated record stores, online retailers, and some music shops.
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