Pressing Forward: The Vinyl Revival — The Sound. The Experience. The Future.

Written By Sean Martin

Vinyl records have reclaimed their place in music culture, but what’s driving the resurgence, and what does it mean for artists, collectors, and the industry? Journalist and Making Vinyl co-founder Larry Jaffee joins Music Evolves to explore the past, present, and future of vinyl, from its sound and experience to the challenges and innovations shaping what comes next. Larry’s deep knowledge of music history, industry shifts, and the cultural significance of vinyl makes this an essential episode for music fans. Tune in to hear more about the making of records, the role of packaging and design, and what’s next for the format that refuses to fade.

Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️

—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast

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🔆 Key Episode Highlights

❶ Vinyl’s resurgence isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a response to digital fatigue and a demand for tangible music experiences

  • While nostalgia plays a role, the comeback is driven by younger generations seeking a deeper connection to music.

  • The physicality of vinyl—album art, liner notes, and the ritual of playing a record—offers an experience that digital formats lack.

❷ The economics of vinyl benefit artists more than streaming

  • Streaming dominates music consumption but offers minimal payouts to artists.

  • Selling vinyl, especially independently or at concerts, allows musicians to make a higher profit per album, giving them more control over their revenue.

❸ Sustainability is a key challenge for vinyl’s future, but innovation is underway

  • Traditional vinyl production relies on PVC, a material with significant environmental concerns.

  • Efforts are being made to develop plant-based alternatives and improve production efficiency, signaling a shift toward more sustainable solutions in the industry.

🎤 Meet the Guest

Larry Jaffee, Author, Journalist, Professor, and Co-Founder of Making Vinyl

🎙️ Meet the Host

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile

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💬 Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on the vinyl resurgence? What are your favorite records?

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⭐️ About the Author

Sean Martin is a life-long musician, technologist, and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast, the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, and the Random and Unscripted Podcast, all part of ITSPmagazine Podcasts which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli.

To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.

Sean Martin https://imsmartin.com
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Reimagining Nostalgia: Music’s Creative and Technological Evolution
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Grooves That Connect: A Reunion in Music