When music CDs came over 30 years ago, everyone thought that would mean the end vinyl records. After MP3s and streaming came along, people thought records would die. This was not the case. Vinyl records have been making a comeback. Many younger people are becoming very interested the seven-inch and 12-inch discs. So much so that 2022, vinyl record sales were greater than CD sales the first time since 1987. 2022, just 41 million vinyl records were sold the US. This compares to 33 million CDs. Records have been increasing popularity quite some time. The year 2022 was the 16th consecutive year growth for record sales. Records now account 71 per cent of non-digital music.
The CEO the Recording Industry Association of America, Mitch Glazier, said there has been a "remarkable" rise record sales. He said: "Vinyl is cementing its role as a fixture the modern music marketplace." He added: "Music lovers can't get enough the high-quality sound and real connection to artists that vinyl delivers….Record labels have met that demand with a steady stream exclusives, special re-issues, and beautifully crafted packages and discs." Many people say the covid pandemic has helped records make a comeback. A record label boss said: "Lots folks were stuck home working in the pandemic…They invested turntables and hi-fi….I think that's still carrying today."
