Did vinyl sales just hit the proverbial brick wall?


Interesting read here about the state of vinyl. Personally, I had no idea what the percentage of vinyl sales was “merchandise” never to be opened or played.

 

https://tedgioia.substack.com/p/did-the-music-business-just-kill?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email

128x128wturkey

@bdp24 Hey -- I saw that Steve Earle/Del McCoury Band show in West Hollywood!  My brain, though, can't quite remember if it indeed happened at The House of Blues. I keep thinking it was either the Roxy or the Troub. But I'll take your word for it. I just went searching for the LP or CD, too. No luck.

@bdp24, I also saw that McCoury/Earle lineup in Madison, WI and it was transcendent. 

I mainly buy Vinyl today, as a 'Merch' direct from a New Performer trying to become established. It is the only method I see to be used, to assist with them getting a worthwhile remuneration from their work.

In many cases the Tracks can be acquired by much more affordable means, but I don't see any great remunerative value in this route of purchasing for the performers.

If vinyl were more affordable I would spend similar monies annually and assist a  further range of New Performers, through buying 'Merch' in the form of the Vinyl LP. 

At present the Independent New Performers are in general, needing to play live venues to keep themselves fed and pay for the time spent being creative.   

The resurgence was always going to end as the baby boomers fade out into history. Young people for the most part are only interested in music if they can play it on their telephone. They may progress to a streaming system as they get older, but I have a very hard time seeing them go for vinyl. There is absolutely no real benefit and a lot of expense and fiddling. 

The majors certainly are not interested. The few records they produce have been of low quality meaning they are not interested in investing in new equipment or facilities. 

@mijostyn I believe you are spot on with the reference to the Boomer generation.  Being part of that group myself, I am well aware to the huge impact this demographic has had on a number of industries.  Anyone remember the Racket Ball craze?  The tremendous wealth of the Boomers and desire to enjoy everything from our youth (how else does a 68 Camaro RS demand $150K), I agree the interest in LPs will die with us.  It's just one of many items my children and grand kids have zero interest in.  But while I'm still here I'm going to enjoy LPs as much as I can.