Collecting: Is Enough Ever Enough?

A reply to Robert Z's video regarding heavy collecting and whether or not it becomes too much.

[@TheOompahRoundabout]

Great vid, to have a passion is important no matter how old we get. And your passion is also making others happy.

[@MeanMrMayo]

+TheOompahRoundabout - Thanks for your comment.

[@AmberRae9559]

I love this video Joe! It's hard for me to describe to people why I collect but it's the feeling that it gives me. I've been collecting since I was about 5, and I'll collect forever. I love the feeling I get and the excitement that it brings me. It's like a full heart, I dont know how else to say it... That's why I have a thing for old items/antiques etc. When I have something thats from decades ago, in a time that I cant even fathom but wish I knew, and that somebody in that time actually had this thing and enjoyed it like I do... it's a rush, its euphoric! I don't know.... Great video/great topic!

[@MeanMrMayo]

Amber G - You have explained your feelings so well - we can all relate! I am so glad you enjoyed this older video of mine Amber ... it's a popular one that comes up every now and then. So collect.. collect... and then COLLECT some more! There are so many worse - and more destructive - ways to get "high" so to speak!

[@kenlee1416]

When I hit the 5,500++ CDs mark, I knew had gone way overboard with the collecting, and in any case each incremental CD bought from that point no longer gave much pleasure in terms of the 'thrill of the hunt'. So, I went cold turkey for 10 years, and during that time, discovered travel (there are so many absolutely gorgeous places to visit especially in Europe!). Recently, I've been buying a little here and there again but ALWAYS make sure to listen immediately when I receive each new purchase. Also disposed of a quarter of my collection which on hindsight were impulsive buys and the music was average anyway. I personally think it makes sense to cull your collection from time to time as it makes the 'task' of actually listening to the huge collection not so daunting.

[@dixielandfarm]

Having a pool of records to pull from is also part of HAVING this stuff... I have a nice box set of Beethoven Symphonies... been twenty years since I have wanted to play one... not like I can't find one immediately online... but it is so much cooler, and COMFORTING that I have it at my disposal maybe after thinking about A Clockwork Orange... same with films - there are movies that are really gone now that having the DVD or VHS is the only way to easily see a few things...

[@tmcheech]

Thank you for this video. It really helped me put things into perspective.

[@frankscovertunes]

I'm a latecomer to your vids , really been enjoying them. This one really hit home for me , I just turned 67 and have been having a lot of those thoughts ( why I am collecting all this , how much time I got left etc.) So, I needed to hear this. Thanks so much for sharing your view and situation , I ,like you, get a lot of joy when I flip through my Beatles collection , just looking at them makes me happy. Anyway , great vid , I gotta go listen to some records :)

[@MeanMrMayo]

Frank... welcome! Seems a lot of new viewers often find this particular video interesting. Thanks for watching.

[@Aforchione10]

Joe...nice video. I have friends in their 50's who never spend, all they care about is saving. But you know what, they will always be that way even if they live to 90. And their kids will blow through all the money they leave behind. Everyone is different, enjoy life while you can. You mention your nephew, hopefully when the time comes he will take over your collection and it will be a great way to remember you and the good times.

[@MeanMrMayo]

anthony forchione Thanks for your comment, Anthony.

[@christopherbarker181]

I always rationalized that I could buy all the records I want; after all, I was going to leave them to my daughter anyway. She could take the time to check the values of them and make some nice money. Then along comes my son-in- law and spoils everything. He doesn’t collect anything and listens only to streamed music and has no interest in taking the time to sell online. Then I have a possible move that may take place a few years down the line. So several times a week I wake up in the middle of the night and think....why am I still buying records? I guess, I still enjoy the process. I wish I could be like “Antny”; by the way, we all knew who you were talking about 😊 If we didn’t buy records we wouldn’t have all this great communication going on!

[@seand67]

Great commentary about 'collecting'

[@Beatlecat1]

Arguably the best non-finds video you ever made, Joe. Agreed with every word. Wished it had lasted longer. Anxious to watch your upcoming Beatles finds video. Take care!

[@MeanMrMayo]

Beatlecat1 Thanks Steve! Wish I could come up with different topics more often.

[@mikebass3723]

Really enjoyed this. Everybody needs a hobby that gives them a buzz. We share the same hobby ;)

[@VinylCollectorJames]

really enjoyed this, I think you summarized my feelings on the subject as well as anyone so far. I may make a thread reply today if I have time while it's fresh in my head. I did reply similarly in Roberts post, but the subject has been weighing on my mind since I watched his video. Thanks for taking the time to do this.

[@markmorgan2365]

What a brilliant video. I collect Model Tanks. I have hundreds. Box been opened but the kit never started. It's insane. I live in a small one bedroom flat, but even I'm thinking about the next model I want to buy. All the best Mark

[@michaelcramer5595]

Joe, terrific subject....so very interesting. Loved it. You nailed me exactly. Mike

[@cosmiccruisercruiserjoey6193]

this is a great video Mr mayo, I am going through the very same dilemma in a way, sometimes I even feel guilty for having bought a few albums and not even listened to them yet, but just the fact of having them pleases me, and being of a similar age to you I often wonder what's it all about, but if we enjoy the buzz and thrill of collecting, who cares. I feel alot better after seeing this video and like you said nobody's getting hurt by doing what we do. thanx alot. keep collecting.j

[@TomCwimpRock]

This video was very helpful for me Joe. I'm thinking about this stuff all of the time and you articulated it really well. And I think you may have caused me to change my own thinking, especially with your point about people who give in to age. Because I've been preoccupied with the idea that I may have only a few years left and I need to downsize and all that depressing stuff, and I believe that your attitude is healthier....Actually I always am culling my collection down somewhat out of necessity - I simply don't have enough room for more LP's. Lately I'm preferring CD's because they take up less room and I can play them in my car...Finally, like you - I also have a large video collection that I rarely make use of any more. I work a lot and I just don't have the interest in spending the time watching films by myself in my precious free time like I used to, and I was thinking of selling them. But it's great when friends for example, ask me if I have "The Great Dictator" by Chaplin and we get together and watch it and it's rewarding to share that with people who have never seen something like that before - I'm rambling on here.... Anyway, great video Joe..

[@MeanMrMayo]

Thomas Calden Hi Thomas -- so many things you wrote sound like me. For example, my getting more pleasure in watching films with others rather than just by myself. Also, I have been trying to push away a recent CD craving, thinking I may be going back to playing CDs a lot, instead of vinyl ... and a lot of that is because I too enjoy playing them in my car (I can play them really loud in my car, where I cannot do that in my apartment).

[@timallen2336]

Hello Robert. I think you hit the nail on the head. Awesome response!

[@robertbalboni3797]

hi joe I can understand where your coming from in this matter. when I first started collecting records,mainly 45s I would play them as soon as I got them. as the years went buy and I added to my collection with lps cassettes etc. I was adding them up so fast that often I would put them away and not even give them a spin until much later if at all. same thing with cds. I have cut way back on buying music now because there is still so much that I have not listened to yet that I have had for years. I still love vinyl and will occasionally buy it but the fact is I want to listen to what I have in my collection that is still new to me. being 59 years old time is running out and I will probably never get to all of them. I guess some of us collect for the sake of collecting and if it makes you happy then by all means why not. hopefully when I retire (cant come soon enough) I will have more opportunity to concentrate on my collection. great video on this subject! rob

[@MeanMrMayo]

robert balboni Thanks for your detailed comment, Rob!

[@MrSailorsam]

I enjoyed this video very much,I don't have the collection that you and Robert Z have but I've got a pretty decent collection,mainly Beatles and solo stuff.Like you I sold just about every record from my original collection and I still regret that.I have always enjoyed collecting and playing my records.As long as my collection doesn't harm me financially I'll continue to seek out things I once owned.I love music and having these items in my possession and that makes me feel good whether I find time to listen to all them or not.

[@michaelplesniak77]

Collecting massages the eyes and the ears in the case of music and thats great.

[@vinyltalkwithtavis3145]

What an awesome response.

[@GoldenOldiesMusicCollector]

A friend of mine asked me today, Why am I buying all of these records? My reply was I am collecting them. I have been involved in collecting record albums since age 10. I moved around a lot in my younger days and lost a lot of my record collection. Now I am trying to recover what I once had. They were my prized possessions growing up. So I understand. For me, its an obsessive compulsive issue.

[@MeanMrMayo]

Roger Evans It's like that for all us collectors, Roger! I'm also trying to get back lots of records I used to have.

[@Thomasgene]

You Rock Mr MeanMr Mayo! I love relaxing with my music! It's a great Escape from all the sh_t Society throws out. I love see your finds and what you have to say about the different records.

[@DaveyC66]

For me, a life without passion is a life not worth living; I think everybody needs that thing that makes their heart beat that little faster once in a while. It could be anything - their sports, their vacation, whatever. People have ribbed me in the past for the amount of records and cds that I buy and the shirts I purchase at shows - in fact, I had some mates just recently busting my chops for buying some records and a shirt at a show whilst not seeing the irony of themselves downing five $8 beers at that show. Me? I don't drink , I don't smoke, I don't gamble, hell, I don't even Starbucks (or whatever) everyday, and at least I have something to show for my money. I was always like it as a kid - my grandparents would give me money to go to the sweet shop and buy sweets, but was more interested in buying a comic, so that I had something to actually hold onto. As I've got older, I've become more "militant" in my view of this; you've made some excellent points which I wholeheartedly agree with. Glad there's other like me out there. Keep it up - you're not hurting anybody - and enjoy yourself!

[@MeanMrMayo]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[@jljohnnysjeeplife]

thank you for not giving up, and pretty much saying age means nothing, as long as you enjoy it, thats what matters..

[@MeanMrMayo]

smfcpthowdy Amen! Keep buying those KISS oddities!

[@raymonddaye1706]

Words of wisdom. In my mid 50"s, and my wife and I have been dealing with the same issues. Too much stuff. Yet I still buy tools, records, and things that interest me. We've concluded- thin out the things that no longer interest where we are now while continuing to live and enjoy the things we do. That may change years from now, I'll deal with the changes than. I have maybe a little over a thousand 33 lps, half of which was acquired at a hoarders estate sale. For $13 I brought home over a thousand records and a couple hundred 45"s. A majority of the 33's were placed with the yard sale stuff but quite a few good finds. The sale included over 200,000 records, many still new, that were left to be thrown in the dumpster. Shame, but they weren't the genre I listen too and my suv was full. Anyway, your right, life is short, do what you enjoy, expand your mind, improve your skills, maintain your health, travel, experience, weed out the clutter, but don't throw in the towel. I'm not giving up on life while I'm breathing. What other choice is there?

[@MeanMrMayo]

+Raymond Daye - Well said! Live and enjoy while we can! I think that emptying one's space of all "clutter" is a step closer toward death.

[@raymonddaye1706]

+MeanMr Mayo Clutter meaning that after 20 years a lot of things accumulate, stuff that is not used but stored. Theres a point where one can become a minimalist hoarder just by not throwing still useful things away , donating or selling. To offer some perspective we have a 8' x 8' shed, a 48' x 14' shed with a 14' x 16' addition built last year to clear out the 32' x 58' garage , a 10' x 16' second story storage in the garage, 5' x 20' attic, not to mention the stuff in closets. All these storage areas are fully shelved with 40% of useful items we no longer use. Being a contractor doesn't help. Anyway, thats what I'm referring to as clutter. I'm not preparing to die, I just don't want another building.

[@nefty73]

Good video sharing interesting thoughts. I've wondered about this issue as well, and concluded that when "enough" has been reached, one just knows. That point varies for everyone. For me, the collecting "obsession" is obviously about more than just the artistic content, whether it's records, movies, comics (the last of which I no longer collect but still appreciate the hell out of); it also involves how it just makes me feel connected to past experiences, memories, perceptions of a period in time, a deep appreciation for various aspects of creativity and artistic values of the past, a curiosity about general states of mind of a particular period that led to such artistry and how it was interwoven with the available technology of that time. That said, it's just plain nice to have these particular artifacts that connect me to all of those factors within my reach. It's all part of being a human being; and it's all good.

[@MeanMrMayo]

+nefty73 - I agree.. thanks for watching and commenting.

[@MrColjazz]

Joe you are just the same as me and a lot of my mates, we all collect Cds,records and videos. i must have 8,000 cds, 500+ records and many videos and never stop buying, it's not about playing all of them, it's about having them and having a fantastic collection. It becomes an addiction and very hard to stop!!

[@MeanMrMayo]

MrColjazz I couldn't have said it better!

[@delrivers4309]

I totally empathize with you. I have a full basement and storage room filled to the brim and I still buy more. I only buy what I love or like (not just any artist). A couple things help and make sense, keep in mind that you don't have to have every variation to be happy. You can also donate items to libraries or radio stations that need items. I know you can get every song online, but I like the artwork and the reading material found in CD's. I was able to gain more space by removing DVD cases or CD's without books. Much better to collect than have nothing to look at or play.

[@robertnycguyraisedonrecord7587]

As a collector of DVDs/Blu-rays - Classic Films, Old Classic TV series season sets, Music dvds, History dvds, Records both vinyl/cds, Books-hundreds of film, History, Art books, OLD NYC book collection almost 200 and stll buying them, Figures Star Trek, Batman, etc etc I have thought and think, how long will I be around to enjoy all my collections. This week alone I bought 4 Blu-rays, yet I have hundreds of TV series DVD sets still to view. Sometimes I get overwhelmed, not in the amount I own, but will I be able to watch, listen and read it all. My thoughts are, I enjoy what I buy and I buy what I know I will want to watch, listen and read. I don't buy something for the sake of buying something. It has to have a purpose. Either because I love a particular singer, band or loved a TV series from my youth etc. I've watched vloggers who buy film after film, every films that comes out, just because everyone else is buying every current film making it to DVD. Yet they either watch and don't like or have all these films which they don't know if they want to watch again because they saw the film in the theatre some years and months back. That's not the way to do it. I'm happy to wake up and see the things around me. It makes me happy just to know that I have all the films, music etc and can enjoy when I want. I'm lucky in the music side of things. I have listened to every vinyl, cd I own. When I buy music I tend to listen within a few days. I'm always caught up with my listening. I manage to watch a few films a week, a TV series boxset takes me 2/3 weeks on average to view. I'm trying to watch, but I also say, if I don't ever get to see everything, at least I had it. I am trying to cut down or purchase on AMAZON which is cheaper, but life is short and we should enjoy what makes us happy. Like you said, we are not hurting anyone. I can go on with this, but I will stop here. My advice, buy what makes you happy, Don't just buy to buy.. Buy records and films which even if you don't get to them, at least you know they are a part of you, of who you are, either because in your youth the music and films were a part of you. Collect wisely and enjoy every minute of it. Maybe instead of us saying ''Wow we have 30 years on average to live'' Lets say ''Cool, we have 365 days in one year, cool we have 365 days to enjoy as much , then think of the next 365 days''

[@MeanMrMayo]

+Robert Nunez -- Thanks for your great response, Robert. And there is very much here for me to agree with. Very well stated --- thanks!

[@johncoxy2112]

Great thoughts Joe . I did go through the why the hell am I buying albums and films at my age thing But I`m now 57 and I have more chill time on my hands and I`m buying more records Cd`s and films now than I have for the last 20 years . It`s my hobby and what else would I do for a pleasure trip , I love Music old, new and even whats coming in the future always have and always will

[@finch45lear]

Joe, for me, a passion is a complete involuntary love of something. Whether its collecting records, riding horses , whatever, it brings happiness to our lives. People who have a passion are very fortunate. You get to pursue an interest you love and the way you feel about it takes no conscience effort on our part. Its just natural and part of one's DNA. I have a few passions, collecting music is one of them and I consider myself to be very lucky to love music as much as I do. I feel sorry for those people who don't seem to have much interest in anything. So consider yourself lucky Joe in that you have the passion for records you do. Its a real gift.

[@MeanMrMayo]

Jimmy King Yes, Jimmy - I often say the same thing about being lucky. I don't know what people do who have no hobby as a passion for life.

[@lordeuronymous]

Whenever I go out and buy lps I put them aside in a pile after I clean them all. You know the saying read a book a day? I try to listen to an album a day. I'll just choose 1 out of that pile and as they are listened to I file them with the rest. But that pile is building up lol. Just having them gives me a sense of happiness.

[@theelvisforum]

Thoughtful video. I agree with you that it's OK to have a collection and not feel like you have to play every record. You can get great pleasure from finding, sorting and owning just as people do with stamps etc. The fact that records contain music is a bonus! Enjoyed hearing what you had to say, as always. Cheers.

[@MeanMrMayo]

TheWesternBlues Thanks for your comment

[@snowwhite6923]

Love your discussion videos because I respect your opinion and would also love to see more album reviews.

[@MeanMrMayo]

Arch Stanton Yes, I really have slacked off with the album reviews, haven't I? I must correct that.

[@nesster97]

Hi, Joe. How's it going? I feel the same way, I spend a lot and like the enjoyment of "having the items". It's hard for me at my age to say "when is enough enough?" Because at 17, I know my music taste will change within 20 years and I'll buy different genres, pressings and maybe formats. When I first started collecting, I just wanted to have The Beatles core discography. Once I did that, I got into other bands and it has just been a constant snowball from there. I can say that I've listened to 90% of my collection, because once an item comes in, I listen to it 2-3 times, sometimes more if I like it. If I don't, it gets put away and I'll try it again in a few months and maybe start to like it. It's very rare that I absolutely hate something, in that case, I trade it to my record store and get something I like. An example: I've been trying to collect Frank Zappa's complete discography(100 albums) some of it, I don't care for. But I still buy it, why? It brings me enjoyment to pull out the album and say "I have it" and hopefully soon to own everything he put out. But, on the same side , I love Genesis, but only buy Gabriel's era and completely ignore things Phil Collins did with them, it's still the same band, but I have no interest. I think it's strange the way us collectors think. In the end, there has been times where I've thought "wow, I've wasted the past 6 years of my life hunting for records and listening to them, I could've been doing something more productive". But then I think "wow, I'm so glad to have this collection that I'm proud to show it off and enjoy it". Onto the beatles update, have a good one, Joe.

[@MeanMrMayo]

DallasPezz Great comment. And yeah, at your young age I wouldn't think at all about the "time factor" -- I know I didn't when I was 17 !

[@styx1231]

hi its a great subject of discussion and I am the same as yourself and I love collecting vinyl and cd. and I have always done this since the days of the Beatles I am a big Prog rock fan and anything that is good and new in music I just think its something that we do and I am always keen to search for new music and remasters etc the thing is we enjoy what we do very much and I would not be happy without my music its been great watching and listening to your video and admire your attitude ...enjoy your stuff for as long as you are well i am a similar age and if anything happens it happens such is life but take care and keep collecting and enjoy what you are doing ...we just love music [and film] ...Allan..

[@GeorgeWildheart]

I love this video!!! I feel the same way.....you have inspired me to make a video on this subject at some point!!!! Thanks!

[@brianeivanitski2907]

Collecting i think is just the fun of owning things you love. I myself take pride possession of the things i own. That's all it is.

[@act-sessions]

HI Joe. very philosophical one. About the last part (spender or bunker attitude), well I guess it's all a matter of balance and finding the middle that will satisfy you and will leave you some for the future. Live like it's you last day and also like you're going to live forever... About record collecting: well I have the urge to buy records every day but sometimes I feel like enough is enough, I have about 350 records and recently I have this thing of looking on records in the shop or online and wonder if I really need it or if I ever going to listen to it. And to be honest, it doesn't attract me to see massive records collections (the exaggerated ones...), looks like a bother than joy. But still love the black thing....

[@MeanMrMayo]

+Acoustic Couch Therapy Sessions - Thanks for your detailed comment. You're right that a happy medium should be strived at -- and I'm working in that! :)

[@mlaborde66]

I have a modest collection of vinyl maybe 200 or so, but my records are working records, meaning i listen to them. I don't buy a record to leave it sealed in hopes that it will be worth 100 dollars 30 years from now. I'm close to your age, and i grew up in the 60's and 70's. I have fond memories of sitting by my Sears turntable as a kid and listening to my records and getting lost in the artwork of the record sleeves. I still own many of those records. As you stated in your video, life is short, you could kick off tomorrow, you never know when your time is up. Enjoy your life and listen to your records.

[@MeanMrMayo]

mlaborde66 - What if "enjoying your life" has a different meaning to different people? What if pulling out sealed albums and admiring how pristine and unscathed they are gives a person enjoyment, even if the record is never played? (For the record. the ones I keep sealed are not done so for future investment reasons)...

[@mlaborde66]

I wasn't calling you out individually my point was there are some people in the so called "vinyl community" that are could care less about the music as long as they have something that few people have. Buying up every available print or variant. I just care about the music. I'm not good at conveying my thoughts in writing lol so I didn't mean to offend you personally. I hope you understand where i'm coming from in my roundabout way lol no hard feelings, anyone that's a Beatles fanatic like myself is ok in my book.

[@MeanMrMayo]

I wasn't offended.. and I'm sorry if I came off that way. Writing words in comments sections are not always as successful at conveying your feelings and emotions as actual speaking! :)

[@01real1]

Thank you for your in depth thought on the subject. I have only like 150 CDs, BUT I have a collection of books which counts 1000+ titles. Yes, there are libraries - I could borrow it from a library, read it and return it - but I have to buy I book, I have to have it. I read it (if I have the time), and then it goes on the book case. The same thing as with record/albums collecting. :-)

[@MeanMrMayo]

+01real1 - Well said.

[@jupitermadcat]

Hey whatever floats your boat and makes you happy.

[@rickyhicks9803]

Joe, I watch all your videos and you usually do not hear from me but I,ve got to tell you this is the best video I,ve ever seen from anybody. Keep up the good work. Very satisfied!!!!

[@MeanMrMayo]

ricky hicks Thanks - glad you liked it.

[@CoinQ]

Hey, I loved your response, Very practical virews and concerns expressed here. And the 8 trak tapes are sum and substance of the topic, it is about the artifact at a certain point.(There are others that have touched on this idea) But there is the reality of a favorite voice , and it a charming idea that some of that favorite is left to discover; I like these talk type of videos they hold me more firmly , and I am very interested in what folks have to say on such questions. We all get to be philosophers. you answer the question quite well, Colin

[@MeanMrMayo]

CoinQ Thanks, Colin.

[@jacobjinglehymer8789]

'You can't take it with you, and you know it's too worthless to be sold'. Bob Dylan

[@ClarenceFisher]

I've been buying albums for years. Sometimes I wonder if I go too far, and yet I'm going to a record show this Sunday.

[@vinylvictim4424]

Great video. Great philosophy.

[@tonythepostman]

really enjoyed the video thanks

[@Prechtl91]

I once bought a vinyl from a guy whose father-in-law had bought 2000 vinyls during his life. And he invested so much money into vinyls and speakers that they had to sell their house and move into a small apartment and they could never go on holiday because they had no money. And when the guy died he left 2000 vinyls behind which his daughter and son-in-law are now selling and giving the money to the wife who never had any money. That got me thinking. He went too far with his obsession with vinyls. But I understand you very well, I wondered if other people also have these concerns. Sorry for my bad English. :-)

[@MeanMrMayo]

Sarah R - Sorry for the wife. He should have given her some consideration too.

[@Prechtl91]

I think so too. He took it a little too far. Very good video by the way. Your videos were the reason I started to collect vinyls.

[@MeanMrMayo]

Thanks!

[@MrColjazz]

Re collecting, i forgot to mention i also have a very large collection of TY Bears and have over 100no and am still looking for any i have missed.

[@richardwhite2344]

Great video Joe, I agree with you Joe on what you said. As for me, I am not really a record Collector, even though I do go to thrift stores to look for Records, but I only buy a album if it is a album that looks real good and if I play it and don't like it, I bring it back to the thrift store the next time I go, What gives me the most joy is listening to the collection that I do have, "The Music Of My Life" I call it. I have downsized my records in my collection a little, just because of space reasons, I usually transfer to a high bias Cassette. Keep the videos coming!!!!

[@MeanMrMayo]

Richard White Well said, Richard. Someone else offered a comment that I should seek out fresh music that I never heard -- and while I do that too, I feel that if life is already short enough to enjoy "the music of my life" as it is, why spend it bouncing around with a lot of stuff that doesn't interest me, just to find a possible gem here or there? Better, IMO, to revel in what you love, again and again (with occasionally discovering something different).

[@richardwhite2344]

I agree with you Joe, Sometimes I do enjoy searching for new music, but it is the classic music that I grew up with in the 70's that gives me the most joy, Olivia Newton John, Captain & Tennille, Carpenters and so many others, to many to name.

[@rukusband]

I feel Your pain , Exactly and Im a little Older than You , But You described Pretty much How I feel About it. . Ive got Lots of STUFF ill never get too. , But its like a disease , Im not ready to sell yet I just hope my kids dont just give it all away .

[@CornishPrepper]

Hi mate, very well said.

[@z1ggy15]

i think if collecting makes you happy with owning something you like or even love then i say go for it keep it up. i am a huge lover of music and i collect everything from Beatles to Rolling Stones. my one weakness is though Led Zeppelin. I feel i have to have everything i find of theirs. dont matter if its the studio albums, imports, or even the bootlegs i tend to find. i have to have them if I can afford to get them.

[@chrisrees7054]

Imagine life with no music!? Now enjoy the music!

[@stephenmkeer]

I have a lot of DVD’s and blu rays (and vhs video tapes before changing to my current formats). When we want to watch a film we use Amazon video or Netflix,but could I sell my collection and be happy with that? DVD’s and blu rays have extras,were Amazon video and Netflix doesn’t. 🤔

[@ronson232]

I have 11 years' worth of sound recordings if played back-to-back (16TB of audio, give or take), which I hoarded years after I stopped collecting physical media (I loved my vinyl/CD collection, but saw it as both a money-drain and a gigantic anchor that kept me tied down to one place). So, if I listen to two hours of it a day, it will take 132 years to listen to all of it. So, there is a LOT that I will never hear. When people ask why collect it if I will never be able to hear all of it, I tell them "Hearing *all* of it is not important. What is important is knowing I can hear *any* of it when I want to." I acknowledge that hoarding is a kind of sickness, so I limited it to just one thing. But as you point out, we all have our vices. At least whenever I read about some obscure B-side by a forgotten doo-wop group, or a lost classic Peruvian psychedelic album from 1967 or something, I can usually find it on my HD.

[@MeanMrMayo]

I think "hoarding" is a word that's tossed about too casually these days, and usually by other people who don't understand collecting. These days it's cool to label someone "a hoarder". Many of the people who use the word so liberally now would never have even heard of it if not for the TV show "HOARDERS". Everyone has their own vice, it's true... and whenever non-collectors have something to say to criticize a collector, I wonder what vice(s) they have which are probably a lot worse. .... Regarding your observation that your collection of physical media was "a money drain", I would have to ask in response: then what is money for? If it's only about saving all of it and not enjoying any of it during our time here on Earth, I think that's a waste (I'm not suggesting this is your POV by the way). Surely there are things to spend money on besides food, shelter, and bills! .... I know a guy at my job who says he spends $10 per day on cigarettes - can you imagine that!? .. this comes out to $3,650 a year on "coffin nails"! (Meanwhile, this same rocket scientist asked me why I would "waste" $300 for my girlfriend and I to go and see Paul McCartney in concert! .. That is like a once -every-few-years or once-in-a-lifetime entertainment experience!).

[@ronson232]

I think I would define "hoarding" as buying more than one can possibly consume in a lifetime. I dislike the word too, though, because it implies there is no discernment. My "hoard" actually involved a lot of thought and effort. Still, I admit that virtually nobody has taken a digital collection to the lengths I have, and that a good argument could be made that I have taken it much too far. As far as "money drain" is concerned, that is just a matter of priorities. If I had spent my record money in the 1980's on shares of Apple stock, I'd be a multi-millionaire by now. Or, I could have used it to buy land, or rent a bigger place, or pay for education...whatever. I do understand collecting, and if it gives you joy, then keep it up. Money is for making our lives happier. I stopped getting a kick out of buying vinyl or CD's, but I also still relate to it (which is why I watch your vids) I think you raise a lot of interesting questions in this one.

[@mr.3camerasman59]

Another question to ponder: At what point does a collector officially become a hoarder?

[@MeanMrMayo]

Classic Junk That's been a question here at the Vinyl Community for a long time. I guess the definition is different for everyone. To me, a hoarder is someone who has garbage or junk all around their house and cannot move about because it's so intrusive. And there's a difference between living amongst old bug-infested pizza boxes and an organized pristine record collection.

[@mr.3camerasman59]

MeanMr Mayo Good point. I knew of a collector whose vinyl collection was so big that it eventually overtook most of his home, made his floor sag, and he ended up building a shed to house part of his collection, which he estimated to be at around 20,000 LPs.

[@SDsailor7]

Classic Junk Good thing it was not a secon story home uh?the floor could have come crashing down on him.A thrift/record store in my town had that happen to them, they had recently moved to another place and this place had a second level and they had stored records up there, I had been there on friday shopping and that night around 2am the upper floor came crashing down! luckily nobody was there or there could have been people injured or worse it even made the news.CheersRob

[@johnheaton5667]

I could quote Dr Winston O'Boogie and say that 'Possession is 9/10th of the problem' but that would be far too cynical...I am with you on this...we should be collecting until we drop :- )

[@annemurrayfan80]

very intresting video bro. i agree with all the things u say. yes we are here for a short time. or to quote Trooper (band) we're here for a good time (not a long time). awesome video my friend. i enjoyed this one. Mike take care :)

[@MeanMrMayo]

mike mason Thanks for your comment.

[@jimroyal475]

Joe, like you, I love the Beatles, Elvis, Connie and Julie London! They make me happy, not just reliving fond memories of my past but also who I am today. How many versions of Get Back material does one need? Enough is never enough for the true fan! I picked up a 1980 vinyl called, The McCartney Interview. It is on KZbin, but I wanted to complete the collection. Do not be concerned how often a record is played. It is fun and some could say it is a waste of money, I say do what makes you happy, while still making sure the electric bill is paid! Check out Julie London's album, Whatever Julie Wants from 1961. She was known for her hit Cry Me a River and playing Nurse Dixie on Emergency. Also a cool book on the Beatles music called The Beatles: An Illustrated Record, first published in 1975. It reviews their albums and as a group and solo. I enjoy comments on what they were thinking at the time and the idea that the Beatles could reunite someday.

[@wendyadams8549]

Hi there. Enjoyed watching your various videos, the de- shrink wrap was very funny. I have watched and enjoyed as I say all that I have seen from you, the unboxing, the 1-10 listings , your best to worse etc etc, then I come across this one 🤔 And I know it's an old video now but I want to say this, I collect and have done for 40 years and I will never hear or watch my acquisitions either but I think of them as rare wine that a wine expert would keep un drunk in his cellar, to look at hold touch and admire as and when the fancy takes you 😃😃😃👍 Be and stay happy, you bring a lot of fun and good feeling to us all so feel good yourself about what you do 👍👍

[@MeanMrMayo]

Wendy Adams - Thanks so much for your kind thoughts. And yes, generally speaking I do tend to come to your final line of thinking in the end when it comes down to just appreciating our collections. Cheers!

[@Pinav88]

It’s worth it ...if you love it.

[@timallen2336]

Hello again. I guess I responded too soon. Thanks for the kind words and I may make a video on this, but I agree with you so much that I don't think I could say it any better than you did. But we'll see...

[@stevederda6447]

You seem to have enough room to store all the records you've collected. Personally.....I'm running out of space! So I really need to be more selective with my future vinyl purchases or start culling some of the stuff I can live without. No more impulse thrift store buys! At least with new vinyl purchases, the higher cost prohibits me from buying stacks.........usually!

[@MeanMrMayo]

Steve Derda - I don't have as much room as I need, I suppose. But even though many of my albums are often viewable gathered on the ground leaning against the shelves, if/when I take the time to seriously clean up around here and organize better, I should be able to have everything shelved. I too decide to cull the collection now and then and eliminate stuff I can live without... but the problem is, I quickly replace them with new ones I want!

[@Speekers_corner]

Who leaves Elvis on the floor? Come on, Joe! :) Personally, I'll take 1,000 LPs and listen to each one over many years than 100 LPs listened to regularly. Variety is the best spice to cook with. Cheers, Jeff

[@highrantdistrict]

Great stuff, Joe. Your girlfriend sounds like a champ! Mine is the same way; we don't always have the exact same things we're passionate about, but we encourage each other to enjoy what we enjoy. It's hard to be happy about a relationship if the other person generally isn't happy ... so even if your passions aren't identical, encouraging each other is the way to go. Very cool, congrats! I agree with the sentiment about video responses to threads. I think they're valuable and I prefer them to contest videos because there's nothing in it for you. You're just contributing to a discussion. Oh, and I had already video-responded to Robert. Cheers! Tom

[@MeanMrMayo]

High Rant District Thanks for commenting, Tom -- and I do intend to check out your video..

[@highrantdistrict]

It's not a Francis Ford Coppola movie - not a must-see. Don't sweat it.

[@jamesgriffithsmusic]

It's strange but despite avidly collecting records and CD's for years, I've never had ANY urge to collect movies. I own about 20 films, but hundreds of albums

[@MeanMrMayo]

+James Griffiths (Vinyl Professor) - Lucky for you! Believe me, it's so much easier just having one passion for collecting.

[@spinynorman8217]

I too have no urge to collect movies at all and for that I am soooo grateful, infact l am given dvds occasionally and I often ditch them before even watching if doesn't appeal. Fortunately l haven't got more than 500-600 CDs and maybe 150 LPs but recently the 'urge' has increased to buy CDs (I won't pay the new vinyl price) partially due to the VC. I'm pleased I'm not as obsessive as some are ; there is a point l get to when l want to off load some of it too. I have not got the completist gene or feeling to just collect new artists.. l think this is part of the problem if it is a problem because to a certain extent there is an element of madness in that route. l remember reading that Andrew Lloyd Webber bought every EP on release at one point ,for me that is going way to far..l will continue to just buy the albums l really like testing them out on Spotify first which will keep my habit manageable! Thanks for the video Joe and the comment James.

Hi Joe, i really liked what you said in the video! Let's make the best of our life by doing the things that makes you happy! I'm gonna do a video about the subject very soon! Take care! :)

[@MeanMrMayo]

JörgenS Sounds good -- I will watch!

[@stephenmkeer]

What is it with humans,ever since we were kids we’ve always wanted stuff ? We get something we want,then after a time,we want something else and so on and so forth.

[@Turtl289]

I get looks from people in my age range(30) about buying cds still and everything. But i kinda just chalk it up to always doing it. Even when i was in middle school or elementary school i was always fascinated by music. Before i had money really i would go to a borders or a newbury comics and just stare at cds. The covers, id check the back and look at song titles and id try and guess what songs would sound like just by the title. Once i had money first thing i always thought to do with it was buy a cd or two. 🤷‍♂️

[@tonythepostman]

love to see you pick out your best beatles buys heres hoping

[@Drummer1981]

I dont think i ever want that many. I tell myself only to buy if it's something rare or I absolutely have to have it...and i can't already own it digitally.

[@bitsandbobs4598]

and i though it was bad i had about 10 slim whitman LPs. keep it up you have an amazing collection. i have just put all mine in A-Z order :)

[@MeanMrMayo]

+Bits And Bobs - Sounds like fun.

[@EddieJazzFan]

I try to play as many of my albums as possible, but I think everyone who collects records has a few "special" albums that they don't play for one reason or another. These are records that are the equivalent to coin collectors who own coins and get enjoyment out of owing a rare and beautiful object but have not intention of spending the coin.

[@MeanMrMayo]

margaretsville Great analogy! And I agree...

[@piccolina721]

I pondered your question and came up with.......... when you can no longer afford it.

[@MeanMrMayo]

giamozz - Doesn't work for me. Because today I can no longer afford it and I even have to sell a few pieces for some quick cash ... but as soon as I get back on my feet again I will be buying lots more.. wooo-hooo ! :)

[@piccolina721]

I can see the fun and joy about collecting in your videos....... speaking of which your live feeds; I wish you could upload your live discussions i always end up at the tail end or miss them completely , Thanks.

[@MeanMrMayo]

giamozz - There are reasons why I choose not to upload the live discussions. But there will always be more... and I think there is some way you can hit "notify" so you will be tipped off whenever one starts.

[@apa90]

Which records in your collection do you play regularly? Greetings Victor

[@MeanMrMayo]

Beatles and Solo Beatles.

[@georgemusic4all4seasons]

Collecting is s great hobby and I enjoy it very much. Maybe at this time in your life you might be buying to much, maybe. You should try saving some money in the bank on a weekly basis and spend a little less on your collecting. I know it might be tough but just try it. You mentioned buying 50-60 Sinatra albums and listening to 4-5. That might be a little too much especially if you are not going to enjoy the full experience of having those albums. I get into different artist all the time especially some of the ones you mentioned like Connie Francis and Sinatra. I will buy the album if the cover has s certain look, but I will listen to the album. Just like anything I think it needs to be done in moderation while enjoying it. Just like a person who drinks they start enjoying a couple of drinks and before you know it they start over doing it getting drunk and no longer remember what it's like to enjoy a couple of drinks, they over do it. That can happen with anything even in collecting.

[@MeanMrMayo]

+Cudahy 1960 - Good points. I do need to save more, but I'll never be one of those guys who saves all his money and pinches pennies - Never! I can't explain it any better about getting joy over just "owning" certain records whether I play them or not. If I can take out the whole collection from time to time and admire the cover art, for example, then it's "well enjoyed".

[@georgemusic4all4seasons]

+MeanMr Mayo I don't blame you, pinching pennies is for the birds and how are you suppose to enjoy life. Like I said earlier I can't be friends with people lie that because you will never have anything in common. Good luck and look forward to more vids.

[@KPU1977]

Interesting topic, but I'm with you. Plus, say someone drops $25K on records.. or more. It's not that much $$ for a lifetime of enjoyment. People spend more ;)

[@joaquinjimenez207]

Why don't you make a radio show and choose a different theme each week to put all that vinyl to use?

[@MeanMrMayo]

+Dippr Pins - I'd love to do a radio show every week. Any offers out there? :)

[@neilpye6089]

Hearing about your work colleague being rather spendthrift maybe he grew up with hardly any money which makes him want to hang on to as much as possible?

[@jake105]

Joe, do you listen to vinyl? Or collect only and listen to CD's. I'm considering getting a turntable again after all these years. I still have my old Beatles records but I really really want to buy the Beatles mono catalog on 180 gram vinyl. Or anyone else out there. Is mono vinyl the way to go? Now I play all my cd's on my computer with a Bose sound system or in the car of course. I've got a decent receiver with nice JBL speakers I never use any more. I'm getting the bug. Help!

[@MeanMrMayo]

I listen to both records and CDs. Regarding the "Mono or Stereo" issue with The Beatles, it varies from album to album (and sometimes song to song), with fans all having differing views on what sounds better this way or that way. You can't really go wrong with the 180 gram Mono box set because they did a great job on those re-issues; but you won't be getting certain albums that were not released in Mono (the set is missing ABBEY ROAD and LET IT BE, for example... they're only in Stereo).

[@jake105]

MeanMr Mayo Great thanks. One more question, I remember the old records would have the vocals & guitar on one channel and drums and bass on the other.. Now I might not have that exactly right. But did they fix that stereo mix or is it the same?

[@anthonyleighton4754]

Collecting games ,records etc. goes back to the hunter gatherer in our DNA we can't go and hunt deers with spears so we collect stuff........

[@georgemusic4all4seasons]

A friend like the one you have would get on my nerves. He's not a matter of saving he's just a cheap individual. I'm sure you go to lunch with him and he will cover his half (maybe) or you will pay the whole ck and I'm sure you don't mind but it would kill him to pay the entire bill. I've met people like that and they are not friends.

[@earheadsix4119]

Dig that POTA trash can!

[@Jameshatford1966]

do you have a copy of pet sounds?

[@MeanMrMayo]

Jon Gossard I had a copy for one listen -- I really didn't like it, so I no longer have a copy. I know I'm unusual in not liking it. :)

[@Jameshatford1966]

MeanMr Mayo the first time i listened to it i didn't really like it, but after another listen, I liked it.

[@guillecachaza6316]

Ultimately, what you folks are doing is keeping young people from getting their hands on rare records they would actually listen to and enjoy. You are preventing new vinyl collectors from discovering that old rare band they've never heard of, and discover new genres of music in the process. It's absolutely the same as keeping a record unopened in the factory sleeve. Records are meant to be played. That's why they were made in the first place. Bands did not went through all the trouble of recording a whole album and creating art just for some random guy to collect multiple copies of it and then store them in some dusty shelf. Music is meant to be played. There is no point in owning something just for the sake of owning it. That's just obsessive consumerism.

[@MeanMrMayo]

I don't care what you want to call it, as long as I'm happy. If I pay my money I can do whatever I like with the album. That includes playing or not playing some of them. There are actually records which are worth more if they're unplayed or still sealed. There are hundreds of thousands of copies usually made of such records, and it's not like there aren't going to be any left for other people to have and play. From my position, I hate seeing people buying old pristine records that are still in shrink wrap and in mint condition, only for them to tear off the wrapping and hype stickers and toss that into the garbage. If that's how they feel they ought to be pleased just owning some old used album version, and they can leave the immaculate copies for the collectors. But the same goes for them as it does for me: if they paid their money they may do as they please.

[@jasonbrooks6562]

Nonsense. Let your kids,enjoy the music,when you have passed. If,they dont like it,that's their tough shit. So many Connie and Sinatra records?. That is far,far too many. Sort out,your wheat from the chaff. Interesting what you say though.

[@MeanMrMayo]

Jason Brooks - One man's chaff is another man's wheat.