There's something magical about vinyl records that continues to enchant music lovers’ decades after their heyday. The warmth of the antilog sound, the tactile experience of handling the record, and the often-stunning album art all contribute to the allure. Welcome to "A Free Guide to Starting One's Vinyl Record Collection," a journey that will explore the depths of this captivating world and help you build a collection that celebrates the rich musical heritage of the 1960s and 70s
The resurgence of vinyl records isn't just a nostalgic trip; it's a testament to the enduring quality of the music and the artists who created it. As you embark on this journey, we'll delve into which albums are essential for your collection, where to find them, and why these recordings stand the test of time. We'll focus on the music of the 60's and 70's, an era packed with groundbreaking sounds and iconic albums.
Before diving in, let's appreciate why vinyl holds such significance. The analog format captures the full wave of sound, often providing a richer listening experience than digital formats. For many, the crackle and pop of a spinning LP are quintessential components of a genuine musical experience.
Your adventure begins not only with the search for records but with an understanding of the artists who defined the period. The 60's and 70's were filled with dynamic musicians whose work remains influential today. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, and Led Zeppelin are just a few names that immediately spring to mind when considering this era.
Let's talk about The Beatles In Your Vinyl Records Collection.......
............... the band that changed the world. Albums like "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" and "Abbey Road" shouldn't just be on your radar; they should be at the forefront of your collection. Not only are their records historically significant, but they also showcase the band's innovative approach to music production and songwriting.
There are various opinions on the most important Beatles album. “Revolver” often gets the vote as it was the first time the band did not have to worry about performing the sons live, allowing foe more experimentation in the studio. This album of course, was the forerunner to “Sgt Pepper” usually the album considered their most important work. Which one should you get? Get them all I say! Here are some classic Beatles to consider....
Revolver....the album that proceeded Sgt Pepper. Unhampered by touring and having to reproduce their work live, the boys experimented in duel tracking, playing tapes backwards, and orchestration. A classic includes "Good Day Sunshine" "And Your Bird Can Sing", "Taxman" and "Tomorrow Never Knows"
Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band"
The classic album that changed music. And old cliche but true. A real must for any vinyl records collection.
No vinyl records collection would be complete without one or two Rolling Stones Albums. Known as the bad boys of rock, their raw and rowdy sound captured the spirit of rebellion. Start with "Exile on Main St." and "Sticky Fingers," essential albums that demonstrate their gritty style and blues influence. And their first album “The Rolling Stones” gives one a tase of how the band started out, basic bluesy rock music featuring classics like “Walking The Dog” “Route 66” and “Oh Carol”
Their "Exile on Main St." and "Sticky Fingers," essential albums that demonstrate their gritty style and blues influence. "Exile is a great double Album featuring "Tumbling Dice" "Happy" , 19 tracks in all
If you're looking for something more psychedelic, delve into the works of Jimi Hendrix. His virtuoso guitar playing and boundary-pushing soundscapes make his records like "Are You Experienced". This album has the magical "Fire", "Foxy Lady" and "Manic Depression" include. Also, you should consider....
..........the amazing Electric Ladyland" essential additions to any collection celebrating the music of the 60's and 70's.
On this album is "Crosstown Traffic", "Voodoo Child", "Burning The Midnight Lamp" and twelve others.
Read More About Jimmy Hendrix HERE
Moving into the territory of bands that defined musical evolution, no collection is complete without Led Zeppelin. Known for their heavy, bluesy rock, albums like Led Zeppelin 1 and 2, through to "Led Zeppelin IV" and "Physical Graffiti" are cornerstones of their discography. Their influence reverberates through rock music even today.
Led Zeppelin 1 started it all. With Jimmy Page firing after his stint with the Yardbirds, and vocalist extraordinary Robert Plant, these albums brought us "How Many More Times", "Good Times Bad Times", "Heartbreaker" and "dazed and Confused", (Zep 1,), "Whole Lotta Love", "Living Loving Maid" and "The Lemon Song" , Zep 2.
Of course no serious vinyl record collection is complete without David Bowie, the chameleon of rock music. His album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" is a landmark that pushed the boundaries of genre and theatrical performance. Bowie's influence continues to inspire, making his work an essential part of your vinyl collection.
The Ziggy album was co-produced by Bowie and Ken Scott and features Bowie's backing band the Spiders from Mars , consisting of great guitarist Mick Ronson , Trevor Bolder (bass) and Mick Woodmansey (drums). It was recorded from November 1971 to February 1972 at Trident Studios. Classic tracks include "Starman", "Five Years" and "Suffragette Ziggy" (who else could think of a name like that!)
Moving on to the theme of concept albums, one of the first and best of of course Pink Floyds “Dark Side of the Moon” album. Coming out in March 1973, this album explores themes such as conflict, greed, time, death, and mental illness. Featuring great harmonies, great music and the classic vocal by Clare Torry, this album is a must for your collection.
And, on the theme of concept albums, don’t overlook “Tommy” by the Who. This was the Who’s 4th album coming out in My 1969. It was not only a concept album, but was the first “rock Opera” Written mainly by guitarist Pete Townshend it features the songs “Pinball Wizard”, “Overture”, and “I Am Free”. Essential any collection.
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