5 Vinyl Habits I Have Stopped Doing & An Uncomfortable Message To My Vinyl Friends

In this video, I discuss 5 things I no longer buy and habits that I have changed in vinyl collecting. I also address a new trend among fellow KZbinrs that I wish would go away.
I show and discuss albums from bands such as The Beatles, The Police, Kiss, Buckingham Nicks, Def Leppard, ZZ Top, Aerosmith, Wayne Shorter, Oscar Peterson, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, and more.
#VinylCommunity #MelindaMurphy #VinylCollection #RecordCollection

[@michaeljacobson4844]

Terrific video...trip down memory lane for the classic vinyl days! Haven't been able to spin Def Leppard since I found out I was allergic to gluten, gleeten, glauten, globen...

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh my goodness. You never disappoint. 😆😆😆

[@likeitornotwithmichaellane4896]

😂😂😂 Great one!!!

[@mr.george7687]

Even though I have been buying for 50 years & have around 2000 records I never considered myself as a collector. I do not have any multiple copies, special boxsets, Mo Fi's, limited copy etc. I buy records just to play them. I am so glad I bought 90% of my records in my youth where I paid between $3.99 & $7.99 all OG's. I still buy a couple of records every month. Mostly the $25 to $40 ones. I'm cheap!

[@happyhippythevinylguy]

Bro that's great! I'm that way for the most part but I do buy box sets 🎶🎵✌️

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's wonderful that you kept the records of your childhood. No doubt, you are very happy about that. ♥️😀 I buy with the intention to play all of my records as well. Thank you and take care.

[@vinylwood]

That's me exactly. See comment

[@johnhegarty1761]

I have probably close to 1200 albums and 600 45's, and I am the same way I still have all of my old records and I will still look through the cheap sections of a store to find a gem. Because I find a lot of times that although the outer sleeve maybe rough the vinyl inside is immaculate and hell I'm not going to play the outer sleeve! I also love how when you are looking through these sections you've got some self-professed audiophile looking over your shoulder to see what you are looking at and then if you do choose something they give a condescending look their nose down glance. Surprise! people I don't know you nor will I probably care to, so your condescending looks don't bother me at all because I know that when I get home I am going to play that SOB, instead of putting all of my accumulation on a pedestal and bragging all over the internet I am enjoying what I have and not Lording over everyone which is why I bought it in the first place!

[@RocknRonni]

Hello Melinda great video as per usual welcome to the veteran record collectors club watching your video I was thinking how enjoyable has been watching you through your record collecting journey and watching you making the same decisions that I did during my journey. On the blue note records I think at first collecting most of them was very good because they were all good records but now like you I'm just cherry picking the ones I really like. ❤ RocknRoni

[@EddieJazzFan]

I stopped going to brick and mortar record stores mainly because of the rampant price gouging now compared to 4 or 5 years ago. Back then you could get some fair prices, but not anymore. What bugs me the most is that the store owners never consider condition of the record. They just say "I charge less that what they ask on Discogs." That gets old pretty fast.

[@jem550]

That's the same thing that is happening at my local antique stores in my area. Seriously seeing record conditions that are honestly unplayable and seller is asking Discog pricing. Ridiculous.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I think some record stores are using Discogs as a way to price their records. I understand that it's convenient to do. It seems like they would take the price that they bought the record for and then have a certain percentage of mark up. That would be a fair formula for everyone and would keep the prices low at the small shops. That's just my opinion and I'm not an expert. Lol. Thank you and take care.

[@rgudmundsson]

​@The underpants of doom. Here in the Us, both in NYC/ Boston/ Philadelphia/New Jersey, and Dallas/Houston thrifts no longer get records that are desireable or even playable.

[@rabarebra]

They're on the gravy train.

[@BboyCorrosive]

@The underpants of doom. Yep, I've eased back from the place I previously considered a gold mine that specialised in the type of Hip Hop I like. I can get 3x as much on Discogs for the same price, even with the postage.

[@glennsmusicchannel]

My vinyl habits have changed a lot since the prices started their rise. I've actually started buying a lot more CDs, and saving vinyl purchases for just the really special occasions. I still have my vinyl Eliminator from '83. 😎 I too am no longer going to record stores. And I too am happy I got the vast majority of things I wanted before the prices rose! I think you are spot on, asking people not to send you things outside the YT platform. It's very reasonable to ask that. Cheers - Glenn

[@MelindaMurphy]

I caught the tail end of the prices still being fair and thankfully, I got most of what I wanted as well. Thank you for your opinion about social media. That was an uncomfortable topic to bring up but it needed to be said. 🙂 Take care.

[@retromusings]

Thanks for sharing that wonderful story about listening to your ZZ Top tape with your mum. Couldn't agree more that seeing an album you used to have or are familiar with after an absence is like seeing an old friend again.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That ZZ Top record definitely holds a lot of memories for me. The nostalgia is part of what makes records so special. Thank you and take care.

[@shannondavis4380]

I remember the first album I bought myself, I was 9 (1974), Went to a local shop and bought Kiss - Hotter Than Hell for $4.99. I still have it and listen to it.

[@isofixyh]

Nice 👍 Their greatest record

[@MelindaMurphy]

What a great memory. I'm glad you still have it. 🥰 Thank you and take care.

[@dennisdittes4420]

Bought Hotter than Hell as my first album in 1974 at age nine as well at Two Guys. My copy is still in great shape. Love that album!

[@kbrewski1]

You made an income when you were 9? Lemonade stand? 😮

[@baybae92]

Honestly, record prices have gone down for the average buyer! Between all of the USD $22-30 regular pressings I see out these days. $4.99 in 1974 is like $32.10 in 2024. Also, banger of an album! You’ve inspired me to pull out my 1976 copy!

[@benjaminsmith3151]

I really like your channel, and I don't remember you ever delving into the endless arguments over equipment that KZbin seems to think I want to hear, now that they've figured out I like records. I have to agree that the world of hunting for vinyl has changed dramatically just in this past year. A few weeks ago I went to a "100 mile yard sale", and didn't see a single record anywhere. I absolutely feel like many of the places I used to look are "cleaned out" as you said. It would be a sad day if I couldn't find something to buy at my weekly visits to my local store, but I can see that on the horizon. I don't even feel like I'm seeking out things that are in high demand. Your videos keep me enthusiastic, even when the surprising finds are less frequent.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm with you. I'm still passionate about music and vinyl but the surprise finds have really dried up lately. Thank you and take care.

[@rabarebra]

@@MelindaMurphy There's still tons of music to explore. Open your mind a little.

[@hmetaljustin]

I really liked what you said about not having to buy every release that comes out. And being able to pick and choose. I think that's important because it can get overwhelming sometimes with the amount of albums and reissues coming out all the time.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do have to pick and choose now but that's a better problem than when vinyl was nearly extinct. I'm thankful for all of the choices. 😃 Thank you and take care.

[@mlblue5355]

Side note on that Def Leppard album. The last couple of years it was pretty rare to find a copy in the wild. But this year I’m seeing them all over the place. One store had three copies last week! I loved that album when it came out. I remember going to a friend’s birthday party in 3rd grade, and he got a couple copies of that as gifts, and also a couple copies of “High n’ Dry”. It was like that for my birthday when Van Halen’s 1984 came out. I got a couple vinyl albums of that as gifts.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's pretty interesting. Did a good reissue or box set come out? 🤔

[@mlblue5355]

@@MelindaMurphy I think they did a box set, but I didn’t hear about the quality of it. But just been seeing more of the originals out there now.

[@raggeragnar]

Hello Melinda ! Good points ! First : Your daughter comes waaaay ahead of records. I’m sure she loves having you visit every weekend. Second : Don’t worry what other people think if you’re responding or not. Third : Coming to your personal completion of an artist/band is only natural in my opinion. When you feel done , you’re done. Fourth : I focus my 45 collecting on my #1 : Mike Oldfield. I’ve got it ALL ! I also collects cheap , silly pop 7’s from my clubbing/disco/schooldance-days between -79 to -88.…….And fifth : You just keep them videos coming. We look forward to them. Take care /A&R

[@MelindaMurphy]

You're very sweet! Thank you for the kind words. Buying 45's has been a lot of fun but I have definitely slowed down. It's very cool that you are a completist with Mike Oldfield. ♥️ Take care.

[@747derrickme]

Hi melinda i have a question..is your turnrable belt driven..i bought a new turntable and had to put it together..the new belt that came with it i had to put it on..and i put it on right but in the middle of every record the speed slows down slightly and then speeds up..i hope theres nothing wrong with it..have you had this problem with belt driven turntables

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do have a belt driven turntable but I haven't experienced anything like that. I would definitely call the company that makes the turntable or the store that you bought it from for help. Best wishes to you. 😃

[@ChrisEstey]

This is great content; love how you evoke your excitement of discovery with personal history, talking about traveling adventures with your husband, etc. And you're reminding of inarguable classics both huge like Eliminator, and lost gems like Buckingham Nicks. Hooray for doing such a valuable channel both informative and very interesting.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️😀

[@thomaslytle5519]

Great video Melinda. I stopped collecting 45’s as well. I have 50+ or so singles. I only have the one or two hit wonders of the 80’s hits that I didn’t want the entire album of. It’s just an opinion but one of my favorite KZbinrs made a good point… we all know about “Like, Subscribe and Notification Bell” by now, and I must agree with him that it’s actually kind of annoying to hear a KZbinr say it. It comes off desperate and just seems unnecessary to say anymore. Myself, I’ve Never Liked, Subscribed or hit the Notification bell Just because a KZbinr asked me to. Anyway, just my opinion. Have a great day :)

[@MelindaMurphy]

I still like 45's but I have really slowed down on purchasing them. I understand the mixed feelings about bringing up the "subscribe" KZbin stuff. Many successful KZbinrs say it helps but I'm not really sure. Thank you and take care.

[@carltwidle9046]

I love the Beatles, for me they are a standout in my life. 1964 i was eight years young. So they are very special to me.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That must have been a magical time. You grew up in an amazing time for music. No other band will ever be like The Beatles. ♥️

[@jasonarsenault3791]

Great video as always. Your thoughts at the end were very well explained. And I’m sure those people behind the Instagram messages know you have no ill will, only good intentions. You always carry yourself with great dignity. Keep the quality coming Melinda.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. Some great channels do it and I agree, they mean no harm. Thanks again and have a great day.

[@JohnBrown-pu9ol]

I haven’t stopped buying vinyl. I have several preorders now. What do you think of vinyl boxes that add cd, blu ray, and possibly, an sacd of the same material to the same box?

[@MelindaMurphy]

It depends on what it is but in general, I don't watch them enough to make it worth it. Thank you and take care.

[@JohnBrown-pu9ol]

@@MelindaMurphy You’re welcome. I’m the same way. I brought it up because some artists are putting out bulky packages that repeat the same material over several formats in the same box. Recent releases from Yes, Jethro Tull and Pink Floyd use this format.

[@mrhoffame]

So funny M. Just this past Saturday I was cleaning out my garage and I have some old shelves I bought when first started collecting vinyl like 18 yeas ago. I looked at them and literally said out loud "Those were some fun times" LOL My collection is 1000 times more complete today, 10,000 times more valuable, 100 times more music to listen to...yet NOTHING will ever compare to those first days of dollar bin hopping and just buying and digging without a care in the world lol. You went into a record store with $40 and came out with 25-30 FANTASTIC records that literally will cost you $350 today lol.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The first year of vinyl collecting is magical. 🥰 I wish I had started collecting even sooner. Thank you and take care.

[@ConcertBuddie]

Preach! Those were some good ‘ol days of collection building 😁

[@Bootradr]

Hey Melinda, I've been catching up on some of your videos over the last few weeks and enjoying them and just wanted to say hi. I've been in the ICU for a couple of weeks and in the hospital/recovery and probably will be up through the beginning of mid-June. Believe it or not, it appears I got bit by a mosquito and got encephalitis a little over 3 weeks ago. I went to the hospital with a severe headache and everything's been pretty strange since then but I'm back to feeling normal but being stuck in a rehab until I can get something medically done soon. Anyhow, I just wanted to reply to one of the videos I've been watching and let you know I will be back hopefully sooner than later. I've got about 15 LPs that have arrived at home since I've been in the hospital waiting on me to get home :-) I think by the time I get home and maybe closer to 30. Just on a side note too, I don't know if it was a reissue or what but a great album came out again a couple of weeks ago and I pre-ordered it from Amazon. It's called King's X - Gretchen Goes to Nebraska. I've spent about $100 for my first 2 LP repurchase of it about 2 years ago. It sounded spectacular and then some. But I thought I'd mention it to you because I'm sure you'd recognize some of the songs and I think it's a rocking great album. It's actually a 2 LP but I even bought myself a backup one so now I have three. The last two that were released I can't remember but they might have been a little bit higher class pressings? I can't see good here in the hospital so if you look on Amazon you'll probably find them. I paid $50 a piece for them and I just wanted to recommend them, or at least one of them, in case you got a chance to check it out and see what you thought. King's X is a very underrated band from the 1980s and on it through today. But their first few albums were their bests back in the 1980s. I can't really proofread anything here now so hopefully Google got it right. Thanks for the videos and hopefully I'll be back home and can say hello again soon... Man I miss my ,🎶music and kicking back at home 👍🎶👍 Brian in Fort Worth

[@MelindaMurphy]

Hi Brian! First off, I wish you a very speedy recovery. What happened to you is terrible. I hope you can go home with a clean bill of health very soon. Thank you for the suggestion. It sounds like you are very passionate. Best wishes to you. Take care.

[@Bootradr]

@@MelindaMurphy Thanks Melinda. Yeah it's not like they're one of my top favorite bands or anything like that. It's just that that specific album, and the one before it really, or masterpieces I think. They're not heavy metal but they have a good, hard rocking to them as well as some incredible harmony and musical talent. Just glad to see that both of mine arrived while I was in the hospital and should be there at the house when I get home :-) Thanks for the reply back and keep up the great work!

[@ConcertBuddie]

Brian! Get well soon Buddie! Sounds like you got a bad beat of late. Heal soon my friend! 🙏🏻

[@Bootradr]

@@ConcertBuddie Chance, thank you and I'm trying. These are SOBs are trying to drain every penny they can out of me so it'll probably be about the 2nd of the next month when I get to finally go home. But I appreciate the comment and I should be home soon. I've got a stack of new records waiting to be played and they're still piling up as they arrive from pre-orders haha. Can't wait to get back home 👍

[@Mick_Ts_Chick]

Love that you did Pyromania! I still have my album after all these years. I got it when it came out and I was a sophomore in college. It's still one of my all time favorites.😻🏆🔥

[@MelindaMurphy]

I love that record and I remember how happy I was to see it at an antique store. ♥️ The early days of buying vinyl were wonderful. Thank you and take care.

[@marichensmusic]

Hey Melinda! I remember going to Matt's every weekend especially when I first got my license, and even during COVID. But like you said prices have gone way up! It is hard to go every weekend and spend the money. I have never had any luck at antique stores in the area. They always seemed to be damaged and overpriced. My habits have definitely changed over the years in some of the same ways you have. Girl I 100% agree, there is no need in clogging up your DM's with a ton of links. I also think you handled the situation in a great way. You are very reasonable and have reservations that I completely understand. I would have those same reservations. I don't think you have a mean bone in your body Melinda, you are the sweetest! Have a great week, and an even better weekend! 💕

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you Marichen! ♥️ You're so sweet! I hope you're having an awesome week. Take care.

[@perfectstack-music]

I'm not even going to comment on the social media aspect of your vid, social media has become a nightmare, even when your just trying to share with like minded people. That said, I stopped "crate digging" a long time ago, everyone thinks they're sitting on a gold mine. I'm down to 1 or 2 albums a month, on line, only the ones I really want and at the price I'm willing to pay. That's just what the market has become. In the mean time, CDs are filling the holes until when, and if, I can add the vinyl version. It's a shame because I've been a "Vinyl First" collector, but things are getting out of hand.

[@jayvalentine2046]

Words out of my mouth I'm with you 100 percent

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand completely. I'm still only buying vinyl but I have definitely slowed down. Thank you and take care.

[@thierrydefrance7220]

Hello Melinda, very interesting video. Although I love vinyls, especially for the great cover art, I mostly buy CDs mainly for economic reasons. I live in France and the prices of vinyls are crazy. Even in yard sales, people are selling poorly interesting records, sometimes in bad shape for ridiculous prices. I love music but I simply cannot afford to buy these fancy audiophile reissues. Now the real bargain are CDs, they are sometimes very cheap and you can even find some rarities for a reasonable price. And honestly, most of the time, I find that the sound quality of CDs is awesome. Overall, my personal feeling is that the supposedly superior sound quality of vinyls is exaggerated and more a fantasy than a reality.

[@MelindaMurphy]

So many people are switching to CD's. I wonder if they will make a big comeback soon? Thank you and take care.

[@kbrewski1]

We call them "records".

[@thierrydefrance7220]

excuse my french 😁@@kbrewski1

[@florianm3170]

Hah, sans lire vôtre commentaire j'ai écrit exactement la même chose.I wrote the same thing

[@kbrewski1]

@@thierrydefrance7220 I actually coined the phrase "pardon my French".

[@kvfrank]

Good video Melinda, glad that you shared your new habits/desires for collecting LPs. It just means that when you do stop and shop at a store, your purchases will mean much more to you. Also, I've said this for years, you give to get. You "get" the instant gratification of being online, researching, etc... in the name of curiosity OR connecting with a friend/family member; BUT (BIG BUT) you "give" up your privacy and expose yourself to scams/viruses/etc. Keep your videos coming, always enjoy them.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes, we do lose some privacy which is unfortunate. I have gained so much from having my channel though. I have the privilege of getting to know some amazing people that love vinyl and music as much as I do. It's definitely worth it. Thank you so much and have a great day. 😀

[@monaural2.988]

My collecting habits started with getting whatever artists, albums and songs I was interested in. When compact discs came to town, it was great to finally obtain material that was at times mega-rare. Nowadays, I definitely find myself wanting only obscure oldies and rare label compilations. Like many have stated, I have much of what I was initially seeking, and the material remaining I’d like to find is just not easy to come by. It happens with many of us sooner or later. Good video, Melinda. There are times when you simply have to lay it out in terms of things that are bothering you. Keep up the great work…ENJOY WHAT YOU HAVE!🥳😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! I definitely agree with your sentiment. I am grateful for what I have. Take care. ♥️

[@CornboneStudios]

Good that you visit your daughter. Sounds like the right choice over record stores.

[@JimmyV1530]

Great video Melinda, I agree on some of your points, I also do not go to antique stores anymore, mostly because they over inflate the price for every day albums that are not in good condition. I was alai never a Jazz guy until covid and all the you tube videos that I watched would always talk about them and once I dove in with Blue Note, I just loved them all but I have drastically cut back, I just can't listen & afford them all but I do love what I have. Have a great rest of the week.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The choices we are getting for jazz are incredible but there are too many to be able to buy them all. Thank you and take care.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. She may not always live this close to us so we are spending as much time with her as we can. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@MD-wk3gj]

The ‘habit’ I’ve stopped is buying albums that I like but won’t likely listen to more than once or twice. As my collection has grown I’ve found it’s better to have less and really enjoy them. That Buckingham Nicks is definitely one of the ‘grails’ in my collection. It’s an amazing piece and to me fits perfectly along with FM, Rumours & Tusk.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Buckingham Nicks is a terrific album. I wish I had realized how good it was the first time I saw it. ☹️ Lol. Oh well. Thank you and take care.

[@anthonyleone6487]

I really love your videos, Melinda. Thank you for always sharing what's on your mind. You're such a blessing. Cheers! 🍻❤

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️😀

[@WillowRedDog]

I agree, and have similarly done a lot of this, myself. I went to a record show recently, and left without buying anything. Partly, because there was nothing I found I was truly interested in, but also because the pricing has gone up so much that I just didn’t want to pay what some people were asking. Records that I know I could have gotten for a 1/3rd or 1/4 of the price just a few years ago. It was the first record show in my area that we’ve had since the Pandemic hit (which was also a big contributing factor in prices becoming what they are these days), and even though I went and left empty handed, I was just excited to actually be able to go to a record show again.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Record shows are fun. If you bring cash, they will usually work with you on price. They may even have higher prices on the stickers knowing that a lot of people will want to negotiate. Thank you and take care.

[@johnhegarty1761]

I recently went to my first Record show, The place was packed, could hardly move ended up going to the back as it was the only place iI could find a spot to look. This gentleman was very personable, willing to work on price with everybody and very reasonable on his prices, bought probably 80% of what I bought that day from him. As the crowd thinned I made it to a couple of the more popular dealers and as I looked through their selections everything they had that I had just purchased from this gentleman from his $5.00 boxes these barons wanted three times that, they had records that I personally own in worse shape than mine priced at a point I would be embarrassed to ask anyone for. Needless to say I quickly thumbed through maybe a 1/3rd of a box and then walked away.

[@marcallain]

I don't think i've ever subscribed, liked and definitely never used the notification button for a vinyl user video but yet, they still appear in my feed. LOL

[@MelindaMurphy]

If you watch any channel on a consistent basis, KZbin recommends that channel's videos anyway. 😀 It's all good. Thank you and take care.

[@lenwennerberg1631]

Melinda. Lifelong collector here and couldn't agree more. There's no need to feel guilty or sad about what you're saying. There comes a time when your collection is filled in and in my case, due to space limitations I no longer go to record shows or thifts and buy a stack of records just for the sake of buying more stuff- plus add to the fact my local record shop closed down last year. My wife and I had a day out today and while downtown I purchased one... just one CD--- from The Rapture at Good Will. Nowadays 95% of my purchases are on Discogs. Specific titles I really want and not just more "stuff". All the best.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! My collection is getting pretty complete. There will always be something I want but probably not much I really need. Lol. Thank you and have a great day.

[@londonrecordlover965]

Hi Melinda. Interesting video, especially the 5 ways you no longer buy vinyl. As collectors I assume we all evolve and refine our tastes over time, so your points about the Beatles (who ultimately produced a finite amount of music!) and jazz are relatable. More regrettable perhaps is that you no longer have many opportunities to visit record shops. That one could be worth looking into a bit further, it is one of the true pleasures of our hobby! Greetings from London.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. There is nothing better than record digging.♥️ I do miss it but I no longer have a record store where I live. Thank you and take care.

[@claudiahyder1984]

Always a thought provoking topic! Yes, my buying habits have changed because A) my collection has gotten bigger and at first I was buying to build a coll 21:15 ection B) the cost has gone up, so I need to be more discerning with my dollars. As far as the second part of your video, you expressed yourself in such a kind and gentle manner. I hope that no one gives you any grief!

[@MelindaMurphy]

So far, everyone has been kind. Thank you for the encouragement. ♥️ Have a great night!

[@TheSkuncle]

Great video. I started buying records a little over 40 years ago when I was ten or so. I kept buying them until the format more or less died. When I bought my house in 2015 I decided I wanted my turntable in the living room (at my condo it was in the finished basement). Around that same time I started seeing albums popping up in newly opened thrift stores. I thought this was great because suddenly people had a place to get rid of their albums rather than at the town dump. The stores would sell these for as little as 50 cents, but usually not more than $1. I got tons of albums in a very short amount of time and didn’t have to spend much. Albums that I had on CD but could now have on vinyl. In the past few years though even local yard sales are trying to sell their records for $20 each. So I’ve stopped checking out every antique store or yard sale. As far as the videos go, I watch a handful, but only have three that I’ve subscribed to, three that I look forward to, yours, Mike at The In Groove and Nick at Toad Hall. The rest I watch if it happens to pop up in my suggestions and the topic looks interesting. I just don’t have the time otherwise. I’ve been buying records practically my whole life, but the hobby has blown up so much that it can become a bit overwhelming.

[@MelindaMurphy]

First off, I'm honored to be among the three you choose to subscribe to. I'm a big fan of Mike and Nick so I am in great company. Thank you for that. The hobby has gotten so expensive but you bought a huge amount of your collection when the prices were extremely low. That's wonderful. I hope things calm down but if they don't, at least I did get some great deals on what I do have. I'm sure you would agree. Thank you and have a great night!

[@GravityFeeder]

I love how your videos mirror a lot of the journey we lifelong collectors go through. The “stop buying so much Jazz” point really hit home… I’ve scoured thrift stores for decades, and I got to enjoy the boom of cheap awesomeness, but now the pickings are always slim and every time I see an obscure Jazz album I’ve tempted to buy it. YES, it will be a great listen. But then it becomes yet another jazz album by some random artist that sits in my collection. And 45s for me are just too much work with not enough reward. If I explore a record store I probably won’t even look at their 45s because I simply don’t find them engaging enough. Interestingly enough, my best friend (another record collector) has had a career in radio, so 45s are always on his radar, and he’s always looking for single mixes and edits. Every collector is different!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's great that we all have our special preferences. I enjoy 45's and jazz. Lol. 😃 Thank you and take care.

[@warrenhummel6506]

Hi melinda, brings me back to the old days when i would get paid on friday and run to the record on the way home and spend usually 100 dollars ,still own alot of the lps i purchased back them , and thanks really love your channel

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do miss going to the record stores every Saturday and picking up some treasures but I also love the memories I'm creating with our daughter. ♥️ You have good memories as well. Thank you and take care.

[@billphelps5611]

Love your channel. That's a great ZZTop record. My habits are about the same as they always have been...I stop in record stores and antique malls when I see them and I do shop online too. I make sure I put everything in discogs now to stay caught up and listen to everything before I file it away. I don't know anything about Instagram or links for that matter! Great video and take care!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Putting every record in Discogs and listening to it before filing it away is an important step. I need to do better with that. Thank you and take care.

[@billphelps5611]

@@MelindaMurphy My sister and I have been working on putting my entire collection in discogs for a little over 3 years now and we are almost done. I really want to make sure I don't file something away without listing it!

[@ericcire7709]

Just found your channel and enjoyed this video. Do you collect 12” singles? I find sometimes you get an amazing extended version or 2

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have a few maxi singles and I do love them. They are usually a fun extended mix and the sound quality is pretty awesome as well. Thank you for giving my channel a chance. 😃 I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

[@CarstenPeterOlsen]

Wow! 22K subscribers!... I haven't done any VC related videos in a couple of years, but logged into this old channel to see what's going on 😁 Fun video, Melinda 👍

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'll never forget how kind you were to me when I first started out. Thank you! I sure miss Peaches as well. ♥️

[@mikesgotthespins5894]

Super video, and great advice, I remember rediscovering all my "old friends" for $5 maybe $10 a piece, but times have changed, I still love, and buy records, but I don't crate dig much anymore, I tend to look for records that will spend a lot of time on the turntable. Thank you for sharing, have a great week.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I remember those $5 - $10 days fondly. 🥰 Thank you and take care.

[@recordtime4750]

Hi Melinda. I have the 2014 Beatles mono box. I think it's great. Was that the one you found at an antique store or was it an older one? I'm guessing you've probably shown it in a video

[@MelindaMurphy]

The 2014 version is the one I found. I hit the jackpot that summer. The antique store had bought a collection and I was one of the first people to get to look through it. 🤩 Thank you and take care.

[@WarpedRecord]

A question and a comment: Question: Where did you get the very cool “Draw the Line” T-shirt? Comment: I have (mostly) stopped going to record stores because my collection is at critical mass, and I’m frequently buying duplicates (or triplicates, or …). I used to take notes or pictures for the titles I think I had, go home and check, then return to buy them if I didn’t have them. Almost always I already had them, so there was no need to return. But frequently I would buy titles I didn’t know I already have. It’s more stressful than rewarding for me to go to a record store these days.

[@MelindaMurphy]

My shirt came from a store called The Buckle. 😃 I have bought a duplicate record one time. Thankfully, very early on I put all of my records into Discogs. That way my entire collection is on my phone. It's very helpful. Thank you and take care.

[@louisbonilla6780]

Great video Melinda!❤I was wondering if you actually had TIME to listen to all those records - I had the same problem - I worked in retail for Musicland selling vinyl, cassettes and CDS and sadly those stores are gone but at 40% Employee Discount I bought so many records I simply didn't have the time - I'm glad you addressed that very well to all of us who have similar habits - I would only buy Beatles stuff like Anthology & BBC but again a few of those German Odeon releases - they sound so great compared to the Parlophone & Capitol releases especially "MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR" and "YELLOW SUBMARINE" - I wasn't aware of the DMS and Instagram issues I guess it's like getting 100 phone messages a day! So glad you're here for all os us!❤

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the sweet comments. Yes, you can compare it to getting several phone messages. I have started missing important messages that I needed to see. I would have a hard time passing up a 40% discount as well. That would be awesome! ♥️ Thank you and have a great day.

[@jmfloyd23]

Hi Melinda, Great video! I miss the early days of vinyl collecting. Prices were low to where you could amass a huge amount of records. That's what I did back in 1988 when I started buying records again. I'm selective in my purchases these days. As the saying goes...you can't have everything. I always enjoy your videos and appreciate your friendship!

[@MelindaMurphy]

You were so smart to buy records when you did. 😃 That must have been so much fun. I started out much later but we are probably at the same point in buying. I have slowed down quite a bit. Thank you and take care.

[@jmfloyd23]

@@MelindaMurphy You’re welcome! Yes! It was a blast when I started buying records back then. There was a used record store in my city. Got to know the owner really well. He let his best customers have a tab as long as you paid something on it each time you visited the store. Plus he would let me look through the new arrivals before he cleaned and priced them. His prices were unheard of. $3.00 for a very good plus $2.00 if it was below VG and $1.00 if it was rough but playable. He priced sealed records at $6.99 Sadly he closed up in the mid 2,000’s

[@catherine6653]

I have not bought records lately. I have been buying concert tickets! It is so fun to see my favorite artists live. I feel I have alot of albums, and can't think of anything I want that I already have. I think I will save for concerts. I ❤ meeting other fans at the concerts. Buying tee shirts is fun too. 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

I completely understand. Concerts are a wonderful experience and some of these bands won't be touring for very much longer. Thank you and take care.

[@ryanrichardson2957]

I stopped going to flea markets and used record stores when the prices just got too ridiculous to me. New records is one thing, but I remember seeing a used copy of the first Boston album with some ring wear and the guy wanted $24. 15 years ago the shops around here couldn’t give that record away it was so common. It’s crazy!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It has gotten crazy. That is a high price for such a common album. Thank you and have a great day.

[@glynforster3873]

I love that Buckingham Nicks album too. I finally picked it up a few years ago but I remember when it originally came out in the UK they couldn’t give it away. It was in the bargain bins for years. As you said, if only we had a Time Machine!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's cool that you still remember when that album first came out. It's hard to believe it was in the bins for years. 😮 Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@ralex3697]

@@MelindaMurphy I bought from a cheapie bin 1.99

[@brianlewis5042]

Hi Melinda. Excellent changes in your buying habits. I think we all have taken a different approach when purchasing records. I know I have. Having all of the albums of a particular artist or group, is cool but I feel it is a never ending story. As far as not clicking on links and limiting yourself to those who are close is paramount. I can’t go on to tell you how many people and businesses who have been effect by people with bad intentions just by clicking on a link. Kudos. One thing I will not do is…. Stop watching your videos. Although I may not be able to watch them when they drop, I generally find the time at a latter day. Cheers

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much for the kind words. I appreciate it greatly. Unfortunately, clicking on links is too risky at this time. I know most people are well intentioned but all it takes is one bad guy to mess it all up. Thank you and take care. 😃

[@lonniestringfellow9854]

Collecting for almost 40 years. I've amassed a wonderful collection throughout my journey. I still buy new pressings, not too many older ones I need. Although there are some 45's I've searched for for years and can't seem to get due to that they just don't pop up for sell anymore. But searching is still fun!

[@MelindaMurphy]

The hunt is the best part. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@zeppearl]

How do you send YT links to IG. I would think its done individual selected. But I agree I do not need notification links in IG when I get them in YT.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I am not good at technology so I have no idea. I'm assuming it's a copy and paste link they are sending. 🤔

[@williamdyemyhair]

Hey Melinda, On the instagram point: have you considered opening two accounts? You could have one account have notifications on but have it so only friends can message you and another where everyone can but notifications are off. This way you can still communicate with whomever it just doesn’t have to be something timed with alerts while still having the option for alerts with friends and people you really care about.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's a good idea and if it comes down to that it's a good option. Thank you and take care.

[@twofromthetrunk9932]

Great video. I saw this drying up of the well. I miss the thrift store dollars days. I remember leaving one thrift store with thirty lovely records. Today I might leave with one or two. In some places those dollar records are now 3, 4, or 5 dollars. I can’t understand your last frustration. Your channel is so big I can imagine the number of links you get. Hopefully people will honor your request. I just do videos for the shear fun of it. That’s the same reason I watch VC member’s videos, I love them. Please keep making the great content that you do. Thanks.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! I appreciate your understanding about links. It's a shame but I can't take the chance of clicking on them. It's been a few years since I have found anything at antique stores. Like you said, the well is dry. Thank you and take care.

[@CookieMusic43]

phew! for a while I thought that you were fed up seeing my "10 final questions" video on your feed and that you were siding with the pointers 😂

[@MelindaMurphy]

Haha! Those questions were very interesting and I watched several of those videos. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Come to think of it, I did answer #9 in this video didn't I? Lol

[@CookieMusic43]

@@MelindaMurphy I suppose you did, it never really occurred to me lol

[@KevinSchmidt-sj2rk]

I've been buying records since grammar school. Music has always been a passion as a listener and amateur musician (bass guitar). Over the years I amassed a huge record collection (Jefferson Airplane, Rolling Stones, Velvet Underground, etc). I bought everything and anything that wasn't nailed to the floor. At some point the collection became a burden and an albatross. The first change in my music buying habits was buying only music I knew, heard, and enjoyed. The days of buying a record for the collectability of it was over. However, that left me with the problem of a collection that was no longer enjoyable and a burden. I had great memories of the fun times finding and buying all these records, but the joy was now gone, and I began to loath the size of the collection. Always being interested in music, I was exploring music of other cultures. By happenstance, I developed an interest in Japanese folk music and the shamisen, and wanted to learn how to play. I decided to cull the record collection. I used the money to buy a custom built professional grade shamisen and now take lessons by video from a teacher in Japan. Now I have a music library of music I enjoy. I transitioned the collectable records and memories that brought me joy into new way to express my love of music. I'm much happier for doing this because music has returned to being a passion to enjoy. Every person's journey to record collecting is different. What matters most is finding the balance you needed to be happy with the collecting and music appreciation experience. Letting go of "I've got to have this collectable" is the first step in the process. Forget about 'thing' you are giving up, but focus on what new experience you're receiving in return.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for sharing that inspiring story. You found your way and what you really wanted in your collection. That's terrific. Have a great day. 😀

[@dweblinveltz5035]

I'll go to a record shop when I'm visiting another city, but I've stopped going to my local shops outside of very special occasions. And I used to live about 10 minutes from the largest shop in the state (I don't live very far from it even now). Last time I tried going to the shop for RSD, the line was wrapped around the building, the people had been waiting since 4-5AM. I showed up and hour before store opened and was still stuck at the back of the line. By the time I moved through the line and got to the merchandise, everything had been picked through. I missed the one record I wanted. I went home and, couple hours later, stalked a couple websites that I took a guess on as to when they would drop their stock, and snagged the record I wanted. Waiting in that line at the shop for hours... It's a waste of time.

[@MelindaMurphy]

What a shame, but I'm glad it had a happy ending. 😀 Thank you and have a great day.

[@jeraldquist8579]

While I still bought on RSD, I have slowed way down on record buying. I have almost completely stopped buying jazz reissues. Like you, I have a great selection of jazz artists now. For me, CDs have always been and continue to be the best medium for music. I bought a CD today. Less storage space, easier to listen to. They almost always sound as good and often better than a record. Plus, I can rip a FLAC file and use that on my portable player, my ROON core, and in my car. I still love records and listen to them often, but they are not my main source of listening. Thanks again! Did you do a video on your MoFi visit?

[@MelindaMurphy]

A lot of people are telling me that they are back into CD's in a big way. It will be interesting to see if CD's become the new big thing. I hope to make my MoFi video soon. Thank you and take care.

[@jeraldquist8579]

@@MelindaMurphy Looking forward to the video. Last week in Zurich, Switzerland, I did pick up a Tears For Fears album at a local record store. I usually try to shop at one record store when we travel to Europe. We will be in Greece in September and I will see what I can find there.

[@BlueSky...]

I can relate to a few of your points, Melinda. Concerning not visiting stores much anymore, I don't much either. One benefit is that it gives younger record buyers a slightly better chance of finding a treasure. Concerning antique stores, I can also relate. Once found the Englands Newest Hitmakers Rolling Stones LP, with the 12x12 bonus photo for $12. Stuff like that hasn't happened for me in a long, long time. Decades. One thing that would be really cool is to figure out a way for us older folks to get hard to find, duplicate LPs we have in the hands of some of the younger KZbinrs in an anonymous way that would be safe for them. It's hard not to feel sorry for some of them knowing they won't have the opportunities that we had.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do feel bad for younger collectors just starting out. The prices are so high for them on top of the cost of living. We were able to buy at a great time and I am incredibly grateful. Thank you and take care.

[@virgilseaman9786]

Hey Melinda, you’ve come a long way in your evolution since 2017. You are so knowledgeable thanks to the 5 reasons you covered in this vid. Money, time and saturation of your collection, reminds me of me. I too have dramatically slowed down buying LPs for similar reasons. Visiting record stores is not as much fun nor productive in terms of time and finding LPs. This goes along with cutting back on record fairs and swap meets. Antique stores were ok as a newbie. It’s nice to know someone who has spent more on Analog Productions that me (ha-ha). So I think a #6 for me is cutting back on PRE-ORDERS from AQ. I think I waited 1 1/2 years to finally receive Oscar Peterson’s - We Get Requests. I did buy the new stereo Revolver LP, one for me and another as a gift. It was reviewed in Stereophile and The Absolute Sound. Glad I bought it. I diversified into digital buying CDs, ripping them into FLAC files, and using a CD player & hi-end DAC and setting up a ROON system. LPs, CDs, streaming, cassettes, but analog is still#1 for me. Great video Melinda! PS - how many LPs do you think you now own? Me, only 600😳

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have over 2,000 records now. I really went all in from the beginning. I still love vinyl but I am a lot more selective now. I have so much of what I was wanting. Revolver was a great release. Thank you for watching from the beginning. ♥️ I really appreciate it. Take care.

[@aftermidnight2112]

With the exception of about a 10-year gap starting around 2005 (and coinciding with when I sold most of the vinyl records I owned at the time) I've been doing the weekend record store shopping routine for almost 40 years now. I still enjoy it as much as I did when I started. My problem now is space to store all of my records. This was the reason I sold most of them years ago. I still own all of the 45-rpm records I bought as a kid, including the very first one I bought in 1973.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Finding space is definitely a big issue. I'm glad you still have your childhood records. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@peterx1957]

Hey Melinda, your video struck a chord with me. I've reached a point where I've had to really slow down on buying vinyl. The last couple of years have taken a personal toll on me and buying vinyl was an escape. However I got into a habit of buying big hauls of classical vinyl & CD's, mainly on FB Marketplace plus some given to me, to boost that section. While I picked up a lot of really nice items, the sheer volume became overwhelming. I've had to add shelving to accommodate it and then I reached a stage where I couldn't face the task of cataloguing it all and amalgating it into my existing collection. That task is something I would normally jump into. I've finally completed it after pushing myself to do it. But it's a sign. So now I'm avoiding hauls. Money has been tight too so I have to watch that. I'm back to being selective. My CD buying had dried up a while ago now barely a trickle. I don't go to record stores specifically unless I make a special trip and even then I have to budget for it. Record Fairs the same. I understand your need to stop buying Beatles records. It's ok. 😊 Me personally you can't have too many lol. But that's me lol. 🙂 Finally I apologise if I've ever been guilty of what you described at the end of your video. It's ok to say what you said. Your wishes are noted with much love and respect.😊❤ Love your work as always. Take care sweetheart 😘

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do love The Beatles but I do think I have plenty of their albums. This is a good time for me to slow down and enjoy what I have and slowly bring new things in and maybe even let go of some. I'm thankful for those wonderful weekends we spent digging though. I'm glad music and vinyl helped you through the hard times. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@lawrence5368]

Hi Melinda, great video once again. I've been collecting since the early 80's and it's been a roller coaster ride. During the 90's I didn't do much because I was raising a young family. So if we were out at swap meets or garage sales I would pick up records but box them and get to them years later. Then around 2005 I was buying and selling records in the classifieds and doing well at it. But after 2010 it all stopped after my wife passed away and I had to concentrate on my children. At that time I would get on Ebay late at night and satisfy my vinyl needs. Today I might hit the odd record store if I'm in the neighborhood. And a lot of the times I'd leave empty handed. I mostly keep an eye on new releases. Being Canadian and ordering from the US, we have to deal with exchange rates, shipping, duty and taxes. My real love is garage and estate sales. I've gotten some real gems for next to nothing over the years. Take care.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I applaud you for being there for your children.♥️ I agree that finding records at garage sales is the way to go. Thank you and take care.

[@daledalrymple6870]

I was wondering about your black shelving that is behind you. Are they from Ikea?? If so do you have the model number. I will be moving in a couple weeks and that shelving would be perfect!!!❤

[@MelindaMurphy]

The shelf behind me came from Walmart. It's actually two shelves that my husband put together and then nailed to the wall for more support. Best wishes on your move. Take care.

[@JeffBoggis]

Love the Aerosmith Draw the Line shirt! On May 26th, Aerosmith is rereleasing Get Your Wings, Toys in the Attic, Rocks, and Night in the Ruts. All 4 will set you back $127.00 through Music Direct. They are all remastered. I already own earlier rereleases, including the Music on Vinyl releases. My question to you is if this were reissues of Van Halen or any of your favorite artists, and you already had some of their rereleases or original releases, would you purchase a new remastered rerelease? This would make for a future video podcast topic! Thanks for all that you do for the vinyl record Community!

[@MelindaMurphy]

If it was Van Halen, yes I probably would buy them. In fact, MoFi is putting out the first six VH albums on One Steps and I intend to buy them all. If the Aerosmith records get great reviews, I may pick up a couple of those. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Also, thank you for the kind words. ♥️

[@RandallWeaver]

I enjoyed hearing about your changing record-buying habits. Things always evolve, don't they? Hey! Remember when we bumped into each other at Phonoluxe here in Nashville? That was really cool....my first VC meet-up and it was accidental! I've met several other great VC people through advance planning since then, but I've never run into any other VC people in real life by chance. It's too bad you have to deal with the downside of being so popular. I think you made your point about Instagram messages very diplomatically; I hope people take your point as you intended - I'm sure they will. Happy Memorial Day Melinda!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It was great to see you. I rarely see anyone I know while out record shopping so seeing you there was awesome. I love Phonoluxe. ♥️ Thank you for the kind words and encouragement. Have a great night!

[@jimconlin5546]

Hi Melinda, I smiled broadly when you mentioned The Beatles Rabbit Hole. Yes, I been in there for more than 30 years. Now limiting myself to one title per month. Had I not done so, a bigger house would have been required. Love the channel. Keep up the great work.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. The space for the records goes hand in hand with the price. Both are an issue. 😃♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@beatmet2355]

Do you have any beatles white album white vinyl pressings?

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have the white vinyl version on the purple Capital label. 😀

[@neilbruce4201]

Mention of Request puts me in mind of a live act I heard say 'we don't normally do requests, only when asked'. Made me smile. Nice post Melinda.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Haha! I like that. Thank you! 😃♥️

[@HobnobWithBob]

Melinda, I think you handled your concerns very well. If any of the people who abuse the sharing of links takes offense, the problem is with them. Thanks for showing off some great albums!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! 😃♥️

[@ralex3697]

Thanks Melinda Enjoy your take on vinyl. I’m a female collector as well, since 1969, after my first purchase I was hooked. Although we grew up in different generations, we share similar stories. Great channel

[@MelindaMurphy]

Very cool! I can only imagine what your collection looks like. ♥️ I'm so impressed that you kept your records this entire time. Way to go! 🤗 Thank you so much! Take care.

[@ericelliott227]

Yes, I experienced that collecting vinyl magic twice, once when I was about 8 years old and then in the 80s I took a "CD hiatus" and then around 2000, I came back to vinyl again and it was good times. I too still have a passion about vinyl records, but currently with what is happening in the "community" which includes everything, if it keeps up, vinyl records and the related equipment and everything will be gone. I stopped going to record stores as well about two years ago. It isn't worth it anymore, but the larger reason is that I no longer have any reasonably local record stores. Yes, gone are the days when a friend and I used to go to our favorite record stores every weekend. One store I miss in particular. Ironically, I just started buying jazz LPs about a year ago. I am very particular about jazz though, I like bebop and groove and jazz drummers are my go to. Sadly, good deals on jazz records are now gone for the most part for reasons unknown and likely the same as what we are seeing on all records now, there is no reason other than greed. I also think the original pressings or early reissues (sometimes also considered original if done within one year), are better than the MoFi or Analog Productions ones or what have you in my opinion. I have some original pressings in jazz and some not. Unfortunately, I only have maybe 12 jazz LPs, but as for monetary value, they are worth about $1 each in my mind. Of course, I do not place any monetary value on records, so I could research that all day and still come up with nothing. I stopped buying 45s decades ago. I have enough Beatles records as well. I don't have different pressings and all I have are US pressings, just standard ones. It is next to impossible to find UK pressings and the like that don't require the sale of a ton of real estate or million dollar loans or something. I grew up with The Beatles though and have my favorite tunes. I don't play them often, but once in a great while I get into this mood where I have to hear an album side or something. Unfortunately, as of over a month ago I have stopped buying vinyl completely because what is happening right now is going to destroy the whole analog industry if it doesn't stop soon and that is the worst part of it for me, to imagine seeing everything go away from records to turntables, etc. because nobody except maybe two people can afford any of it. If what I am seeing currently keeps up, manufactures will stop making turntables record plants will close, etc. and will never be able to pick up again. I don't want to see that happen, but it is not up to me. I never see "notification bells" on any channels I watch from time to time. (Maybe they show after clicking "subscribe")? However, I also don't need more email spam and I don't have all day to watch KZbin channels. I also do not do social media (facebooks, instagrams, twitters, etc.) and never will. I also have a different take on it personally (and I mean strictly personally). I do not understand KZbin algorithm. I do understand that in making an inquiry to KZbin that they will not allow me to even have a channel right now because while I would certainly follow all the legal rules, I personally want no part of the algorithm and because I am not willing or able to commit to marketing my channel (they make you agree to do that now) and not even wanting like buttons and such on it (or at least hiding or disabling them, which one can do on videos one puts up individually ), they will not allow me to have a channel at this time. (I will never market my channel. I did not market my audio magazine at all and I had about 300 reader subscribers from all over the world, which for me is enough). However, KZbin rules change with the wind, so maybe someday soon I will be able to have a channel. I suspect KZbin makes money off everyone's channel so they want that money and whoever can't provided it get's deleted or nasty letters or something. Your problem with your Instagram is one of a million reasons I don't do social media. I wonder if many of the notifications you get may be bots and those can't be stopped unfortunately. Totally agree: Safety is number one!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's a shame there are so many rules regarding having a channel on KZbin. I had no idea their rules had changed so much. I hope you do have a channel someday. I agree, safety comes first. Thank you and take care.

[@ericelliott227]

@@MelindaMurphy Yeah, it's all about revenue of course. KZbin rules seem to change often, so perhaps someday I can have a channel....at least for a few days perhaps until the rules change again.

[@poetsdreamsatc]

Great video Melinda! I too have recently put the brakes on buying vinyl. I’ve gotten frustrated with the RSD limited editions, the price increases and lastly I’ve run out of room. Im currently trying to find a way to show my box sets without keeping them with the regular LPs. They take up a ton of room. Melinda did I miss seeing your MOFI video? I’ve been looking forward to seeing that. Have a great memorial day weekend. ❤Deb

[@MelindaMurphy]

The box sets do take up a lot of room but they are very cool. I struggle with space issues as well. I don't want records taking over the house. 😃 My MoFi video is on hold for now. I do hope to be able to discuss my visit at some time. The sooner the better. Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!

[@mattgregory971]

Great Video Melinda! I bought all the Beatles I need all of the US mono and Stereo albums plus I have most of the German prints and the Canadian plus all of the 45 and the EP box set and the UK albums from 2009 remastered. And everything else I have 600 albums but it’s stuff I listen too on a regular basis. Plus my Cd collection so there is no overlap. Plus vinyl has gone up so much I been buying the CD counterpart! Plus CD sounds good still! Have a wonderful day!

[@MelindaMurphy]

What an amazing collection and I'm so glad you play and enjoy it all. ♥️😃 Thank you and take care.

[@kristertoften5420]

Great show as always! Vinylprices is becoming crazy. Even at charityshops, it’s now hard to find bargains. Actually, I have started to pick up som CD’s again. And that’s still a real bargain 😎 Especially blue note and verve recordings. Not the same feeling as vinyl though.

[@MelindaMurphy]

So many other viewers have also said that the cost of vinyl has become too much and they are now going back to CD's. There's nothing wrong with that but I am saddened to see others leaving vinyl behind. Thank you and take care.

[@DarkSideOfThePepper]

I told myself several times I need to stop spending money during all this greedlfation. I stopped going to stores way back in 2010. Last month I spent almost $1000 on vinyl not walking into stores. This month $60 for a release in June. I finally broke my habit (I hope) I don't generally buy duplicates unless it is an anniversary edition that deem worthy to spend money on. Many people (that have the time) are doing shorts now and sending those through IG as well. I certainly wouldn't take offence to being asked to stop. Social Media is not a green light to invade anyone else's social media space. Always appreciate your videos Melinda and your straight talk. Have a great week

[@MelindaMurphy]

The video notifications have been clogging up my Instagram messenger and I have actually missed a couple of important messages because of it. I also understand how easy it is to order records online. 😀 Thank you and take care.

[@patlampo9288]

😊Thank you so much for the great reviews and all. The first album I bought, I was 14 got paid from my first job washing dishes (🤣) was David Bowie Station to Station.

[@MelindaMurphy]

What a great record. That was a wonderful start. Thank you and take care.

[@farrellmcnulty909]

I had a lovely time at the most recent record show I attended. Beatles Red album, half speed master of The Who's A Quick One, Sell Out on original Decca...BUT...after all that cash cane and went, I spotted the LP edition of the Revolver box set. I could've opened an artery. I don't go to how few record stores which still remain...it's mostly the shows I like (or Amazon). However, I did once find a good copy of Quadrophenia at an antique store.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! Revolver is such an amazing album. ❤️ You found some amazing records. Thank you and take care.

[@farrellmcnulty909]

@@MelindaMurphy You, too, Melinda

[@RocknRonni]

Hello Melinda Love the video. welcome to the veteran record collectors club. while watching the video I couldn't help think about how much I enjoyed watching you in your record collecting journey and the decisions that you've made that are the same ones I did in my journey. Also concerning the blue note records buying most of the titles that came out at the beginning was about the same thing I did there was so many great titles but lately I have been cherry picking because I don't like all the records that come out and like you said there's so many choices.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Hi Ron! I always love hearing from you and I have so much respect for you and your opinions. You have taught us all well. I am moving on to a different phase in my record collecting journey but am still enjoying it all. Thank you and I hope you have an amazing weekend.😀♥️

[@RocknRonni]

@@MelindaMurphy ❤️

[@HayesProject79]

I’m with you on slowing down my record purchases recently. The increased prices turns what was a passionate hobby into a stressful ordeal. I went to a concert a few hours away Saturday so I went to a record store while I was there. They had a second pressing of a Coltrane album for $600 and a Lee Morgan album for $300. Both albums are now available in all analog reissue series for under $40 each. I can’t see spending that much money for something when there’s flawless newer versions available. For me the vinyl experience is about the music primarily. I also enjoy having something physical that connects me with the artist. There’s no reason for me to spend that much money on an OG when everything I love about the vinyl experience can be achieved with a reissue. The hunt used to be fun when I could find older records at fair prices but I think those days are over. I live in a very small town and guys from bigger cities come in and pick everything clean to resell online. Flea markets, garage sales, consignment shops, estate sales, etc.. all get bought out by dealers coming in from 3 states away. I understand it’s how they make a living but it ruins the experience for us treasure hunters hoping to score some good music for reasonable prices.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree with you. I would pick up the $40 release. The originals are very cool though and I can understand people wanting them. Thank you and take care.

[@brandyl2183]

I 100% agree. The online reselling folks that do that for a living have made the fun of thrifting non existent anymore. Everything worth anything is gone right away and sold for stupid prices online.

[@mikecoffee100]

Another Awesome Awesome video and I agree abut the record stores they are just getting to greedy and yes I understand about stores paying rent etc but stil , however I plan to go to a record show next Sunday and like last time I will buy one or two and no more.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I completely understand. Record stores are having to charge more because buying collections is getting pricier for them. Everybody knows that vinyl is valuable and they are demanding more money from the stores. At least that's my theory. Lol. Thank you and take y.

[@jackmerucci2398]

My first ever 12” vinyls I bought, I’ll never forget - was browsing at the local Salvation Army, and this was maybe a week into collecting, I had already picked up a 45 or two.. and while digging the employee brought out the new crate. Loaded full of classic rock hits. So much that I passed up records… cause I didn’t even know what I had, but I picked up everything from Santana soul sacrifice to some ELO and journey, Earth Wind and Fire, steppe wolf, iron butterfly, I mean the works. I only grabbed around 20 out of the 40 that were so valuable, but I picked the albums I thought were the best and left the rest for someone else to have a good find I suppose.. I still think about those records I passed up.. all $30-$50 albums easily for about $.50 a pop. Best feeling ever. Got me hooked to this day

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! Sounds like an amazing day. 🥰 Thank you and take care.

[@rickknutson6540]

I enjoyed your video very much and I really miss about buying vinyl back in the day of record booths where you could try to record out before you bought it I remember shopping for used in the u-district of Seattle the Bay area in California down to Los Angeles I spent a lot of time on the road and I would pick up choice vinyl state-to-state later I would work record swap meets in Pasadena not forgetting the Rose bowl swap meet but those days are long gone but now live my life with your amazing finds

[@MelindaMurphy]

It sounds like you have some wonderful memories shopping for vinyl. I'm sure those stores are pretty amazing. ♥️ Thank you for the kind words. Have a great night!

[@ShamrocknRecords]

Hi Melinda, I know I’ve changed my habits as well. Luckily I’ve been collecting pretty seriously since 2010 and started picking up records I wanted at good prices. I miss the great scores for 1-5 bucks. They still happen but not as frequently. I still love going to antique shops, flea markets, indie shops, etc.. but I don’t buy nearly as much. I used to buy quite a bit of vintage used records but I have most of the records that I want so I’ve been mostly buying grails and new artists records that come out. I have a small crate and booth at an antique shop which helps me cull my collection as well. It’s nice to trim the fat to make room and money for new arrivals in my collection. Sorry about that Instagram crap. I got off of Instagram and Face book about 6 months ago. I just didn’t like the constant scrolling I found myself doing and I hated a lot of posts on there. I miss having relationships with several people but it works better for me to just stay away. Hope all is well, Brian☘️

[@MelindaMurphy]

Hi Brian! Having your own vinyl booth at an antique store is a great idea. That helps fund your new purchases. 😃 You started collecting at an amazing time when records were incredibly cheap. I wish I had started earlier. If I knew how much time I spend on social media, I would probably be depressed. Lol. You have the right idea. Thank you and take care.

[@Mattlangstonable]

Nicely done video! That's one of my FAV Aerosmith albums ever. And in pink! What find! Looks great on ya!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much. 😃

[@cricketbat09]

I moved to a tiny flat years ago, and I had to sell my vinyl collection (no room to store them). Over time, I replaced many of my favourite albums with CD's (including all my Beatles records). I subsequently thinned down my CD collection, as I now listen to music in other ways. But I recall how good it felt, discovering a rare vinyl album with great cover artwork.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's a feeling we never forget. I understand the need for space though. Vinyl definitely takes up space. Thank you and take care.

[@avispielrein1360]

Hi its Avi From Israel "Like seeing old friend again" Melinda you're a rock!!!! you have the amazing gift to put into words what I feel collecting vinyl, off course our buying habits changed through the years so ???? However the basic fundamental passion to go through the vinyl ritual / experience still there AND HERE TO STAY! and in the end of the day that's what counts :) LOVE YOUR VIDEOS. Thanks for being there. B.T.W I'm 100% support the safety measure you took not opening every single link you get. its the right thing to do!!!! you have no reason to apologies.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much for the kind words. I really appreciate it. I'm so glad you said hello. ♥️😃 Take care.

[@felixlusash]

Love your videos and probably live vicariously through your love for vinyl. I have not bought any vinyl since 1987. I love cds and boxed sets. Still love that physical format and I do not pay for any streaming service.

[@MelindaMurphy]

CD's are very cool. I am so honored that you watch my channel without being big into vinyl. Thank you so much! Take care.

[@philipgapske2206]

OMG I really can't believe how much I'm exactly like you with all of the things that you touched base on in this video. I've been collecting Records now since I was fourteen years old and I've gotten away from buying them too. The last album I bought was RUSH Live in Rio. I paid $79.99 for it. It's a four record set. But now with the prices of Records I quit buying them. I will never get to listen to all of the Records that I have but they still are a treasure to me. I started buying Comic Books three years ago mostly DC Comics. They are alot cheaper to buy. You are so lucky to have all of the great albums that you have. I feel the same way about mine.🥰🤩😍

[@MelindaMurphy]

I still buy and enjoy records but not anything like the pace when I started out. The prices are a factor but our priorities have changed now that our daughter lives close to us. That Rush album was definitely a great one to get. I treasure everything I have and like you, I'm very grateful. Thank you and take care.

[@TrippinGnome]

Yes might be a new trend. It's been almost a year since I've been in a real record store, on one side just not interested in the current prices being asked for both new and used records, and on the other side I've already obtained most of the albums I was interested in re-acquiring. Now I am stuck following my wife through antique stores everywhere as she collects old uranium glass from the 1800's and depression era so I browse their albums when I come across them but what they tend to have is the same stuff you find clogging up the thrift stores except the antique stores are asking 30-50$ for the same stuff the thrift stores want 1-2$ for. This also means frequent visits to thrift stores looking for old glass, where vinyl finds are hit & miss last week I found clean pressings of Abraxis and Tattoo You for 2$ each but that is rare anymore. I've sort of solved future storage space issues by buying a DAC and moving on to collecting new music in DSD 1-bit format when the rather expensive files can be found. The vinyl collectors landscape does seem to be shifting.

[@MelindaMurphy]

My husband and I also have varied interests so we still enjoy antique stores. I just don't look for vinyl at them very often anymore. Thank you and take care.

[@MrFishfinatic]

Once in awhile I like to go to a record show (there are more and more each year) , I’m 83 so it’s hard for me to go lately. I like 45’s from the 50’s and early 60’s. I like 78 rpm’s and get them from my record dealer friends and recordsmith auctions out of VA. there just something about a 78 it’s hard to explain.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! The 78's are very cool. They seem so fragile. I'm glad many have survived. I do have a small collection of 45's - mainly my favorite songs. I have a jukebox so I like having some for it as well. Thank you and have a great week!

[@rodfrancis9160]

I listened to the Beatles White album on a portable record player a few days ago and to watch the apple label spin and hear that album since the late 70's was so good.

[@MelindaMurphy]

A great album! 😀

[@thedarkwizardroom]

Hi Melinda. Good to catch this video. I have every once in a while if I have an itch to head down to the local record store also to antique shop there in the district as while some records are put out on the street to entice for those to come in and look at records at real low price of $2. And you see what condition and such a used record is, Inside check what they have and prices being different with stuff with the plastic sleeves. I miss the days of a lot of vinyl buying and cd getting. ZZ TOP Eliminator had the vinyl. I had recently got the cd as wanted to have it and include to talking about it on a channel. I As so loved the album then and now. I haven't bought any 45's in ages. Not that I wouldn't want to but happy with the ones I have and well maybe if I visit a Goodwill I might get lucky with some. Otherwise $2 for a 45 I have to really want it at a record store I check when I have the itch and money to do it. Though I would tend to leave with vinyl albums under my arm or bag. I watch what I can of peoples channels. Don't use Instagram. Using you tube is enough for me with each day of what I do look at and comment to. I consider you a good social media friend on here. Someday maybe we would meet if wiling. Love your discussions each and every day. Thanks Melinda. 🤟

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much for the kind words. 😃♥️ Eliminator was a wonderful record and it carries terrific memories for me. Have a great night!

[@masonb9788]

I could go on for hours talking about my history with record collecting. I do relate to the magic of some of those 80s albums. I was absolutely obsessed with Pyromania. I loved the artwork. The sound. The vocals. I’d love to find a 1st pressing to replace the one I had as a teen. (I “gave” my LP to a friend when I bought the CD version… don’t ask how many times I did that 😅😢)

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand. So many people did let go of their vinyl when CD's arrived. You're certainly not alone. Thank you and take care.

[@jamesthomastomanders]

We have same beginnings timeline I bought a couple records in for memories in 2013 that was when I ran across a record section at a big box electronics store for the first since back in the heyday and I held on to them until I bought a Goodwill turntable in 2017 that’s when I started collecting them because up to that point I only had 4 records, that same Goodwill was also my main source of records for a couple years I would always find good stuff there mostly 80s records then all the sudden it dried up there and every other thrift store and it got worse after Covid, rumor has it it’s because they reserve all their good stuff for online, anyways that’s when I became interested in buying new records in stores and online, and more recently I discovered a nice record store not too far away that always has a lot of nice records and for the most part cost less than current thrift store prices

[@MelindaMurphy]

We have had a similar experience. 😃 Unfortunately, I was never able to enjoy finding records at the Goodwill. They have only had junk at mine. Perhaps one of their workers is also a vinyl collector. 🤔 Lol. Thank you and take care.

[@gregorymaxham5140]

Hi Melinda, really enjoy your channel. I'm getting back into vinyl again. Your collection is amazing. Anyway thanks gor what you do. Regards from Sweden

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! I hope you really enjoy getting back into vinyl. It's like seeing old friends again. ♥️ Take care.

[@Craig_KCfan]

Great video Melinda!! I love your passion for vinyl it’s so awesome… For me music in general but vinyl for sure is like a Time Machine. I mean it never fails, someone on a video is showing OG pressings of 80’s Rock or Metal and instantly I’m back in Germany 13 yrs old back before German movers stole all of my 300 something albums and cassettes… But none the less I started collecting vinyl again hen I turned 50yrs old I am now 54… I love vinyl and I love the VC.. Take care and keep on keeping on🤘🏻 Craig A-Z Music Haven

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm so sorry that someone stole your records. That is more common than I would have ever dreamed. I'm so glad you moved past it and am back to building your collection. Best wishes to you. ♥️😀

[@Craig_KCfan]

Thank you Melinda For your kind words.. I would like to think I have moved passed the shock of my albums being stolen yrs ago😂 But there are times when I watch videos or look on discogs and I see something I once had, and I look at the price and I can’t believe how much it is😬🙄.. But you know what in a way with my vinyl being stolen it led me to other artists and bands I would have other wise passed on like ‘The Beatles’ or Jackson Browne, Rory Gallagher hell Jazz even😂

[@user-qn8fw4st2e]

Always look forward to your videos and your connection to younger days and your mother touch our hearts......a true genuine heart and honest collector reviews. Take care .

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️

[@buckaroobonsaibuddy7]

When I collected about 15 yrs ago I would go to the nearby college town and scour the thrift stores and goodwill and find great albums for 50¢ and $1. The best time to look at the stores was at the end of the spring semester when the students were donating or selling their stuff before graduating. I amassed an entire collection of classic country records for 50¢ an album at the goodwill. Two times a year the mall in conjunction with the college radio station would host a used record sale, the records were one dollar a piece and if you were willing to volunteer to help sort the records prior to the sale you had first dibs. Eventually I had to force myself to stop buying after the collection took over my apartment. The thrill of finding a great album for next to nothing was very addicting.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I can totally understand that. I can't imagine buying these fantastic records for only $1. It would be hard to balance the thrill of the bargain with the space in our homes. Thank you for sharing that. Have a great weekend.

[@raythackston1960]

I worked at a record store during the mid 1980's and I had a huge collection that was things I had before working there too. And then I continued to buy vinyl after that. But I was a musician and travelled all the time. So I stopped collecting as a rule. But would get things when I found them as a great deal. But as I became diabled in the mid 2000's I sold my entire collection for way to little money...but nobody wanted them at that time. I have a few but got rid of all the promos and things that you can't find today. Sad but it was nessasary at the time. But I see things and I just go...yeah I had that too.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I completely understand. Sometimes our circumstances in life force us to make decisions that we wish we hadn't. It was very common for people to unload their vinyl back then. You are not alone. I wish you the best and it's never too late to bring back the special albums that meant the most to you. Thank you and take care.

[@9496TULL]

For me what’s changed the most is free time. I just don’t have it like I used to. My electrical business has just been crazy busy with calls. And I’m with you on the prices of viynl as of late. It’s getting ridiculous. I don’t click links either unless I know them or have communicated with them before. To many weirdos out there. I don’t do any other social media sites so I don’t have that notification issue I remember subscribing your channel when you only had 3 digit subs. You really have done well and remember the main thing have fun with it 😊😊😊😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! You subbed to my channel pretty early on. I remember some of my early videos. Thank you for hanging in there. 😀 Lol. I hope life slows down for you but having a lot of work is also a good thing. Balance is key. Thank you and have a great day.

[@bigedhaaheo]

Aloha Melinda, Great Subject! I too have too much Record Albums & no space again to put them. But I still buy...it's an addiction 😫 I'm having I hard time to control. I need to take small steps to control my spending. Thanks for the tips. Fortunately next month on the 17th of June here in Honolulu they will be a film camera and vinyl swap meet , which I'll be selling at. Hopefully I can get rid of the record albums I no longer listen too and or have double copies of. Looking forward to watching your next video. Mahalo Ed

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's definitely a fun hobby that at times feels like a full blown addiction. Lol. I am glad I went all out in the beginning but I am slowing down for a while. I will still pick up must haves but not much else. Have fun at the swap meet. It sounds like fun. Thank you and take care.

[@claudenebritt1166]

Great video. I have been changing my habits as well. No more 45s unless there is cool artwork or colored releases from Colemine. I was buying duplicates of Prince, one to spin and one to stay sealed. They are too expensive to do that now. I also am trying my very best not to purchase an album on vinyl that I already have on CD unless it’s different (or Prince!) When I started collecting vinyl in 2016 I never would have believed I would have too many records but here we are!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Me too. I have a lot more than I would have ever dreamed of. I'm so grateful but I have slowed down now. Thank you and take care.