What's Got Gen Z Hooked on Vinyl Records? 

With each passing day, advancing technology makes it easier for crowds to stream music anywhere in the world, without the restrictions of physical limitations such as heavy speakers, amps, and an entire audio setup. However, despite these advancements, Gen Z’s love for vinyl records has only grown fonder. Vinyl records have been around for the longest time and were, frankly, one of the most popular ways to listen to music from your favourite artist back in the day. In this blog, we’ll break down the reasons why there’s a sudden surge of vinyl collecting amongst the younger generation.

We’ll be taking a look at the following:

1. Why Are Vinyl Records Getting Popular Again?
   
   
2. Why is Gen Z Buying Vinyl Records?
   
   
3. Are Vinyl Records Better Than Digital Music?
   
   
4. Final Thoughts
   
   

Why Are Vinyl Records Getting Popular Again?

Of course, digital streaming platforms are convenient. You aren’t limited by where you are, what you’re doing, or whether you have the setup to play music right then or not; digital streaming platforms save space, in the physical sense. But there is nothing a good vinyl record can’t beat when it comes to slowing down after a tough day. Sure, it isn’t the most accessible in cases when you’re travelling. But if you have the luxury, and you’re at home, who wouldn’t want to slow dance to their favourite albums in their house by themselves? Vinyl Records are more than just music. They are a whole experience and a hobby linked with other hobbies like going to record stores, collecting records, it's a whole community you engage with to get your favourite albums. This experience is what will always make vinyl records stay relevant even as generations age. 

Not only that, there are so many perks to vinyl collecting, from a better sound experience to the collectability for music nerds such as me :) The whole process of playing music becomes so much fun, and so, there is no doubt people will always find their way back to Vinyls after digital burnout.

Why is Gen Z Buying Vinyl Records?

As AI-generated content floods the art world, creativity is starting to feel mass-produced and impersonal. People are craving more physical mediums because they offer a sense of connection and authenticity. 

Vinyl Alliance reveals how Gen Z is buying vinyl in record numbers — 76% of Gen Zers polled said they buy a record at least once a month. Further, they also revealed how 61% of Gen Z are more likely to replace their digital habits to help with mental health compared to Millennials and Gen X, who sit at 53% and 27% respectively.

A lot of times, listening to music on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music turns into a passive experience, just background noise. But vinyl records change that. They make listening an active, intentional act. Gen Z has caught onto this: records tell a story from beginning to end, and without a ‘shuffle’ or ‘skip’ button, you’re encouraged to slow down and take it all in.

These statistics can be surprising, but if you think about it, with the booming craze about music and aesthetics among Gen Z, it only makes sense that Gen Z will feel more drawn to collecting vinyl. Music is healing for EVERYONE. The members of the Gen Z community are not only passionate about music, but also the process that goes behind making music, their favourite artists, and so much more. Vinyls are a way to keep this love alive while supporting artists.

Are Vinyl Records Better Than Digital Music?

The answer to this question is very subjective, but really, there is no answer. Both digital music and physical forms of music, like vinyls, CDs, etc., are all different and offer different pros and cons. While Vinyls or CDs might not have the flexibility of location, they do offer a more intimate experience around music, where you can literally own a piece of music. With digital music, it is different. With the flexibility to play your favourite tracks and albums anywhere, anytime, digital music makes it accessible for people to listen and appreciate music even when they can’t afford a 50$ vinyl. Both physical and digital ways of streaming music have a range of differences that set each apart from the other. But in reality, the answer lies in a person’s preferences. If you can’t deal with the hassle of storing and collecting music, digital music is the way to go. But if collecting vinyls, storing and owning your favourite music/albums floats your boat, go for it!

Final Thoughts

With the booming trend of vinyl collecting, there is only more and more appreciation for music and the art along with it. No matter what way, as long as music finds a way to reach younger generations, it's always beneficial to the artist, getting exposure as well as the people that get exposed to music as an art form. The surge in vinyl collecting has helped artists reach a wider audience while paving the way for music businesses involving vinyl. All in all, it's pretty cool to see how something as classic as vinyl is bringing people closer to music in a fresh way. So what vinyl are you buying next?

We at GreaseRelease, have a bunch of curators on our network who are looking for new & exciting music to push on their massive playlists. If you make music and want to reach a wider audience, check out our submission platform and get a chance to reach millions of listeners! Submit your tracks now!