The “vinyl revival” crept into pop culture in 2007, and new generations are becoming acquainted with it still today. Their reasons might not be for the pure sound quality that those who grew up with the music medium most appreciate, however. Nonetheless, generations that have likely never seen these weird spinning discs anywhere but in the movies are enamored with them.
There are so many entry-level players now that modern-day record players combine the retro medium with modern technology. The reasons for the vinyl record resurgence among the younger generation, namely older Gen Zers in their mid-to-late 20s and younger Millennials in their early 30s, might surprise you.
A break from digital life
Vinyl doesn’t require a screen, streaming, or connectivity
Credit: Audio Technica
Today’s generation primarily listens to music through streaming. Call up a free or subscription-based app, choose a song or queue up a playlist, and enjoy. You can navigate menus, create your own playlists, and find virtually any song at the push of a button or voice command. Despite this process being hyper-connected, people inherently feel so disconnected from the music experience.
The Vinyl Alliance surveyed more than 2,500 vinyl enthusiasts from around the world and found that not only were 76% of Gen-Zers buying records once per month, but also that 80% owned their own record player. Most surprising is that the top-cited reason was to disconnect. Half of the survey’s respondents crave a break from digital life and feel this helps improve their mental well-being. Ironically, one of the most connected generations enjoys vinyl because it helps them hark back to simpler, disconnected times.
Gen Z values experiences over material things
Gen-Z is characterized as the generation that values experiences and fosters a sense of community over ownership of material things. It’s why board game cafés and trivia nights have taken the place of loud nightclubs and bars. Records have always been about a sense of community. They aren’t items you traditionally buy online, and visiting a local record store is never a short trip. It’s about flipping through dozens of bins of vinyl discs, examining records and their sleeves, reading about the artists, and finding hidden gems.
Supporting this, Vinyl Alliance’s survey confirms that 84% of its survey respondents shop for new records in store, 57% saying they do so because they prefer the experience. They even note that they wish there were more community events taking place at local shops to bring music enthusiasts together, help them learn more about different types of music and artists, find like-minded individuals, and discuss why vinyl is better than digital music.
A fascination with the “1900s”
It’s a social media trend, too
Interestingly, while a love of vinyl is also thanks to a desire to disconnect, some Gen Z fans are jumping on board because it’s becoming trendy to share this love on social media. Sites like TikTok are filled with videos of younger people posting about their “vinyl hauls” or showcasing record players or records in a unique way to express their love for the retro tech.
Since many of these kids and young adults never grew up with vinyl, experiencing it for the first time is a marvel. Every technology they have been exposed to is digital in some way. By contrast, record players and vinyl are such interesting concepts, and the sound is unlike anything else they’ve heard.
Despite being a current social media trend, the longevity of the vinyl revival suggests that those who jump on to be part of that conversation are a small subset of the demographic. For many, it’s about a true, growing passion for vinyl and the community around it.
Better accessibility
New products combine the old with the new
Another driving force in the resurgence is accessibility, with manufacturers offering affordable retro record players with modern technology to attract a younger audience. Many of these “starter” players are Bluetooth-enabled, so they can both spin records and connect wirelessly to Bluetooth devices to stream music through built-in speakers.
One such product is the Victrola Journey Glow, a record player that comes housed in a suitcase design with customizable ambient lighting on the front. You can play records, connect devices via Bluetooth, and even use Vinylstream to pair the player with external speakers or headphones to listen to vinyl with a louder soundstage.
The Crosley Plus record player is even more affordable. It comes in a similar suitcase design with a carry handle and is finished in dozens of fun colors and patterns, making it a statement piece as much as an audio device. There are others as well, including eco-conscious brand House of Marley, which makes turntables using sustainable materials, an important consideration for the environmentally friendly generation.
Stepping up a level, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-USB turntable adds Bluetooth and USB for multiple playback options through external speakers. Several years ago, the company brought back its clever Sound Burger, a portable, entry-level turntable with Bluetooth that’s easy for young adults to take with them to parties or friends’ houses. Initially meant for limited release, it was so popular that Audio-Technica kept it on the line, now selling bundles with speakers.
Gen Zers are fully on board with vinyl
The fascination isn’t going away
Credit: Crosley
The newer generations appear to be gaining a love of vinyl that shows no sign of slowing down. They enjoy social detoxing from time to time. They love the sense of community that comes with a passion for vinyl. And it’s easier than ever to join the party thanks to affordably priced players that combine vintage design with modern features like Bluetooth. The hope is that eventually, as younger generations enter the working world or move up in their careers, they’ll consider upgrading to higher-end players for a purer, richer, higher-quality listening experience.
Streaming has its advantages. But the younger generation has realized that there’s more to music than simply pressing a button and having any song you want at your fingertips. That’s kind of boring. The thrill of the hunt, the crackle of the needle hitting the record, and the intricate details of the album cover are what music is really about.
