Vinyl records and record players are making a comeback. The old school way to listen to music has brought a sense of nostalgia to current music. Popular artists are releasing vinyl records due to the demand of its vintage uprising. Anyone can stream songs, but not anyone can own a vinyl record.

When did vinyl become popular?

Originally record players and vinyl records became popular in the 1940s, but they are on the rise again. This vintage way to listen to music is a way artists are now marketing themselves. Vinyl records take time and patience to make. During the pandemic, vinyl sales rose. With live music put at a halt, experiencing music in a different way was highly sought after. As a result, vinyl records popularity is growing and its fans are using it for collecting, sound quality and even the nostalgic experience. 

Why do people like vinyl?

Streaming music is so easy and convenient, so why would vinyl be so popular now? There’s a certain appeal to vinyl records, the aesthetic, vintage feel, and accomplishment of obtaining a special piece of music. Some gravitate towards vinyl over listening to music through headphones or speakers, and this is why.

The sound

For some, the love of vinyl is all about the sound. Placing the needle on the record grooves with the crackling sound is worth it all. The quality of sounds can be different from record to record, but the process of making a vinyl record is so detailed that each detail an artist wants in the record is there purposefully. 

Experience

Having to hunt down and find the music you love is something more special than simply downloading a song on your phone. Thumbing through each record with anticipation at what artist is going to be next is why vinyl is popular. People crave experiences and even something like smelling and touching a record you find is a new and exciting experience.

Collectible

You don’t see CDs displayed, but you do see vinyl records displayed. Not only are they fun to listen to, but they are also aesthetically pleasing! Don’t want to hide your records in a box? Mount them on your wall and display your music taste for all to see. 

What are some of the most expensive vinyl records? 

Artists new and old have released vinyl records of albums. Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift and Harry Styles are among a few of today's current-day artists that release vinyl versions of their albums that have been a great success. 

When searching thrift shops in Kansas City for vinyl, it can be a fun and overwhelming experience. Searching for your favorite artist and an album you love can be thrilling. Here are some artists to keep in mind when thrifting that have high value.

Wu-Tang Clan: Once Upon a Time in Shaolin - $2 million

The Beatles: White Album - $790,000

Elvis Presley: ‘My Happiness’ - $300,000

The Beatles: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (signed by all band members) - $290,000

John Lennon & Yoko Ono: DOuble Fantasy - $150,000

Thrift shops in Kansas City

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