These Vinyl Records Are $40? This Has To Be A Joke!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I said this in my video, but it deserves another mention here. I didn't buy the overpriced records that were at that store. I am using records I already owned as a visual aid for the video. The Japanese Boston album was one I already owned and the one at the in store was a US pressing. Thank you.

[@dannovack1364]

I’m saying they’re a nice find!

[@dannovack1364]

You know what to look for.

[@SKOTxFREE]

How much did you pay for your Boston?

[@SKOTxFREE]

Yeah people are playing on new people getting into records. That Simon and Garfunkels greatest I find at Goodwill all the time.

[@paulwally9007]

Thirty-seven dollars? You are lucky. In the UK we are paying thirty-seven POUNDS. If that's not a grift, I don't know what is.

[@stevebird9510]

This is the main reason I avoid 'Record Stores' now. I have been finding great records at Thrift stores and Estate Sale stores. These Record stores are pricing themselves right out of my budget. Thanks Melinda 👍

[@mikelcory4065]

Agree!!!, it does seem like the last 6 months vinyl at record stores have jumped, around double. It’s strange.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Well said! Thank you and take care.

[@monaural2.988]

Actually, Record store dollar bins shouldn’t be automatically disconnected from consideration. Many thrift stores are now pricing THEIR records at 3 to 5 dollars, even for Mitch Miller albums run over by a parade of trucks. At least a handful of independent record shops can have better stock.

[@Andersljungberg]

Now the situation is a little different for a small company, they probably have to bet more money to the wholesaler than, for example, Amazon. because the wholesaler may have principles of quantity discount. if you order a certain number of units, you will get a percentage discount. But if you order fewer than these units, you will instead have to pay more. I don't know if it's like that in the record industry, but it's definitely that way in some industries. and if you have a store in a big city, you can probably count on high rent. and now we are talking about commercial real estate

[@Andersljungberg]

The question is whether it can become a vinyl bubble just like a housing market bubble. it knows the market crashes, the price drops if a lot of people go bankrupt. or maybe we're not there yet it's maybe like with Bitcoin. several times experts said the rate will drop but it got more and more expensive

[@jerryandlisa27]

Records at these prices are going to make this beatiful hobby go under again.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Let's hope not. 😏 Thank you and take care.

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

@@MelindaMurphy I think it only depends on where you buy them. I often look for my vinyls on fleamarkets since they are usually a lot cheaper there. And sometimes you have "professional" record dealers who basically sell the same records there... but for 3-4x the normal price you'd pay on the fleamarket or in thrift stores. Basically they often demand prices for used vinyls that you'd pay for a brand new release. I can see why certain releases are more pricey... like certain Kraftwerk live bootlegs.... because those are indeed rare... but most of the other release that are not really rare.. i dunno. For example, i saw a used vinyl copy of the Soundtrack for the Star Trek Pilot "The Cage" and "where no man has gone before". The same vinyl that was produced for YEARS and that guy wanted 15 bucks for it. I thought for a while but said "Naaah.." and a few days later.. i went to my local electronics market.. and what did i see there? A brand new copy of the same Capitol Records pressing of "The Cage". For 10 bucks. I bought it. ;)

[@amraceway]

@@MelindaMurphy Better value than CDs. In the 1960s LPs were $5 so $40 records today are actually cheaper.

[@philipsharples615]

Record collecting has always been an expensive hobby. I have been collecting records for over 50 years now and have paid out hundreds of pounds for a RARE 45RPM SINGLE in the past. I know of some SERIOUS collectors who have taken a second mortgage on their house to pay for that must have record . I will never go that far. My wife would kill me.

[@greyhoundude6112]

@@KRAFTWERK2K6 - Pro tip: the plural of "vinyl" is "vinyl."

[@livinaftermidnight9651]

The simple solution is just don't pay those prices. Eventually they'll get tired of sitting on inventory.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Let's hope that's what happens. 😀

[@joelsislak5334]

I'm not defending them in any way, and think used vinyl prices are absurd (thanks hipsters millennials that think vinyl is cool), but unfortunately prices have gone up on everything, and we can say that about everything we buy. I think there are only a few places left in the world that still press vinyl, and that is one reason. You are never going to get everyone who buys, and collects records to just stop. Look at the price of eggs recently, but we all gotta eat, and if you have a job chances are you need to put gas in your car to get to work. So are you just gonna pass up the gas station when the tank almost on E? Nope your gonna full up the tank weather its 3, 4, or 5 bucks a gallon.

[@dietmarsteiner1070]

@@joelsislak5334 So I think you agree, that after paying bills like rent, heating, electricity, food, no money will be left for way too expensive records!

[@TorontoJon]

Melinda, great video and like you, I do scoff when I see how absurd the prices are becoming with records and I count myself lucky that I was ahead of the vinyl revival trend and bought a lot of my records 20 years ago from eBay sellers (with cheap shipping at the time) as well as from various thrift store chains when there was no widespread rekindled interest in vinyl.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thankfully, I bought most of my collection a few years back while the prices were still tame as well. Thank you and take care.

[@Derfunkmeister]

These Stores and Discogs are in the end gonna kill the Vinyl resurgence.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I hope not. That would be a real shame for everyone. Thank you and take care.

[@brianreynolds6303]

I agree Melinda. Prices are so out of line. It is crazy. I will stick to Estate Sells and Thrift stores. Thank you for this video.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You are so welcome!😃

[@JohnJohnson-cn9fh]

same here in the uk,the stores will kill the vinyl revival off if they are not careful.jpj

[@MelindaMurphy]

I hope that doesn't happen. 😳 Thank you and take care.

[@demcai122]

First, I gotta say I love this channel. I might have said this before, but unlike some others, you are not pretentious, you are genuine and you capture a common spirit among people who collect records and just enjoy playing records. Secondly, I am digging the Sketches of Spain-Sweatshirt and would like to know where you got it. Thirdly, you are spot on about Mofi's back in stock titles, I ordered Sketches of Spain and Ray Charles Genius Sings the Blues Master Recordings and they are beautiful pieces of music. Also, Miles Tribute to Jack Johnson came today. if you don't have that, take a listen. It has a psychedelic rock-jazz feel to it, in my mind. It's all good stuff. Anyway, thank you for your channel. I appreciate it.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do have Jack Johnson. It is great. I have been buying as many of the Miles Davis Mofi's as possible. ♥️ Thank you so much for the kind words. The encouragement was needed tonight. 😃 My sweatshirt came from the Miles Davis website. Thanks again. I hope you're having a wonderful week. Take care.

[@demcai122]

@@MelindaMurphy Thank you so much!😊 I will check the website now:). One last thing, I am slightly jealous of your Mofi of Jeff Beck's truth in the background, but i treated myself to Analogue Productions 45 rpm reissue of his Blow by Blow before it became back ordered. I can't wait to put that on soon maybe this weekend.

[@rorysuire6177]

And they put the damn sticker on the sleeves. I HATE THAT!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thankfully, the stickers come off very easily. 😀 It's a pet peeve of mine too. Take care.

[@poetsdreamsatc]

It hurts my heart that record store put the price sticker on the cover WITHOUT PLASTIC covering the album cover! 😳 Those stickers will probably take off part of the cover if removed.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree that they shouldn't do that. So far, the stickers haven't hurt any of the records that I have bought from them. Even though the prices on some records are too high, I do occasionally find some good finds. Thank you and take care.

[@dannovack1364]

I’ve had many records with the price sticker on the cover. The oldest record I’ve found that was still sealed was from 1959. The one thing I can’t say is , I’m not sure when they started so

[@dannovack1364]

Sealing them

[@kentgoodall2516]

I feel your pain and then u ask em to remove the sticker Oh the look of dread on there face

[@stevenkoski228]

A vinyl record has only a 58db dynamic range, that can’t be improved/increased, unless a DBX range expander is used. Japanese import reissues in most cases do sound better, than the original due to remastering. Now the market is touting “heavyweight 180gm audiophile vinyl”, which doesn’t improve fidelity at all, it’s only more resistant to warping, nothing more. I’ve collected music for over 40yrs on all formats. I currently only spend serious money on SHM CDs, which have been remastered by JVC’s engineers, from their original file sources, & I can hear the improvements very clearly. The new audiophile vinyl game is for suckers.

[@averillallanmcmurtrie9176]

I am now 75 and have been collecting for 52 years, mainly vintage Rock and Roll and sixties music up to but not including Flower Power. Here in New Zealand the same greed prevails along the same lines as you have just described, thankfully I never sold my collection when CDs hit the market because on today's prices I could never have replaced it - mind you many I would never be able to find now anyway. As an interesting aside many people are trying to command greedy prices for Elvis Presley and cannot seem to understand why they don't sell, but the answer is easy, people my age collected him but all my friends who collected Elvis are now dead and those who are still on the planet already have everything like me. Very few young people collect him, and as one realistic dealer pointed out they are only buying very cheap records to see what he was like. Yes young people do buy Elvis but nothing like the masses when I was young.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! The Elvis movie presented an opportunity to charge sky high prices for Elvis records and some record stores went for it. I think that has died down again. It sounds like you have an amazing collection. 😍 Thank you and have a great weekend.

[@AudioGuyBrian]

For sure. I was lucky that when I was into Hardcore/Punk/Acid Rock in the late 80s and 90s I bought as many as I could get my hands on. Today they are selling for $300-$600 a piece in NM or VG+ condition. I am in the process of recording all my vinyl to Type II and Type IV cassettes on my high-end Nakamichi deck and will have a nice little sell-off so I can get all the grails still on my list.

[@averillallanmcmurtrie9176]

@@AudioGuyBrian Your era music is what will sell these days whereas my era does not, it all comes down to age group. I remember years ago I bought some Glen Miller 78s and the woman wanted a very high price which she relented on but she was of an age when Glen Miller was very popular (and to a degree still is) and could not accept the fact that his records no longer had any value. I don't buy him but I find Glen Miller Eps and 10 inch Lps just sitting in Op Shops not selling all the time now.

[@AudioGuyBrian]

@@averillallanmcmurtrie9176 I find it is not so much the age of a record or band but how many pressings were eventually made the year the record came out. That is why you can still find Mint condition media & sleeve/cover copies of the original pressing of Alan Parsons Project - I Robot for 10 dollars. It was because he was so popular at the time, the literally pressed tens of millions of copies the year it came out. If he was a lesser known artist and only say 5,000 copies were pressed in the 70's they would be selling for over $300 for a mint condition one. My local record store has boxes full of the same record by Neil Diamond. Not because they are fast sellers, but because people traded them in or sold them to the store for 50 cents or less because if they ever wanted to get that record again, they can probably find a still wrapped original pressing for $5. So rarity has a LOT to do with it. Like some horrid sounding acid rock bands worth hundreds of dollars per record that I have in my collection. In Discogs there may be 10 people with that record and 15,000 people want it. Not a mass appeal but sheer rarity.

[@averillallanmcmurtrie9176]

@@AudioGuyBrian There are two issues here and firstly I agree with you, rarity is one issue the other is once there was a demand for a record or a genre but as we die off the people who bought those records or genre are no longer around, for example I bought Elvis but I doubt if you do but now all my friends who bought Elvis are dead so only a smattering of people are buying Elvis. Another example is Bing Crosby, there are loads of Bing Crosby records sitting in Op Shops and there they will stay because no one is buying them so I don't dispute what you say it's just that we need to look at the issue from both angles. Thanks for your reply I enjoyed writing to you.

[@soundsonthesound7437]

Not only are the prices way too high, they are putting the price tag directly on the jacket. If they think the records are so valuable why are they not in outer sleeves at least.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. The good news is that the stickers do come off easily. Thank you and take care.

[@aussierob7177]

In 1965 in Australia, the average price of a LP record was $5.50. Today, taking into account inflation, the same record would cost about $52.00. Also, the equipment used in the recording process was very expensive. The actual vinyl copies were heavy and rather stiff. Some were made using pure virgin vinyl which gave them a white colour. Very rarely would a disc be damaged, or badly warped. I think the "golden age" of manufacturing records has been lost. Today, it's all about money.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree that the quality needs to be improved. I do think for some companies, it is all about the money. For other companies such as Acoustic Sounds and Mobile Fidelity, it's about the love of the music and of course making a living. Thank you and take care.

[@buddymorrissey]

My kids are getting into vinyl, and I'm happy to see them pirate my collection. On trips with them to record stores, I saw the same thing Melinda did, many new pressings (not Mobile Fidelity) of common LPs at $35-40. When I made my transition from LPs to CD in '85, LPs were typically $8-9 US. (CDs were $16 unless on sale). Adjusted, that's $22-$25. Fortunately, my girls think those inflated $35+ prices are stupid, and they're happy to bargain hunt.

[@BriansVinylRecords]

Wow... those prices are insane. I paid $28 for an original Japanese pressing of Boston Don't Look Back just recently. I have that Simon and Garfunkel in my sell pile and wouldn't imagine pricing it that high. Crazy stuff. Rock on Melinda!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree Brian. Crazy stuff. Thank you and take care.

[@romeroflores7576]

@@MelindaMurphy Damn you "Mckay's" !!!✊😖

[@flyingburritobro68]

It’s Economics 101. Supply and Demand. Loads of younger kids are collecting vinyl albums. I go to a lot of record shows and prices have tripled in price in the last 5 years for most stuff. A lot of vendors price based on Discogs. Brick and Mortar stores add to that for overhead costs. It’s best to know the market and if it’s a crazy price walk away. Another factor is whether or not the album is available on reissue or not. And yes I have that Boston album which I probably paid 5.99 for it new when it came out😎

[@jackwezesa1081]

Agree with supply & demand. A perfect example is Rumors by Fleetwood Mac. There must have been a gazillion pressings made and less then 10 years ago they were in $1 crates. Used record stores are getting $20 and up for copies that aren’t even in great shape !

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! People are wanting those originals and they are getting harder to find in clean condition. It's still a shock though. Thank you and take care.

[@dave91688]

I havent bought a record in months.... The prices are unreal...

[@MelindaMurphy]

They sure are. 😮

[@leeherbert1525]

I have two of their locations near me in NC. They price common records 2 to 5 times the price of what is normally charged by typical record stores. In addition most of their vinyl is in poor/unusable condition. I refuse to buy any LPS from them.

[@MelindaMurphy]

A lot of the records are in rough shape. I do find some gems but I have to dig for them. My daughter loves their book section so I will continue to go but those prices were shocking. Thank you and take care.

[@MetalMan73100]

I have been exclusively on the CD train since 1994 when I decided that that would be my chosen format for life. I have been lucky enough to be able to replace almost all of my cassettes and LPs on CD. I am still happy to have made that decision nearly three decades ago, especially considering how vinyl prices have gone through the roof in recent years. If someone has to be blamed for that, let´s point fingers at the hipsters! 😉

[@MelindaMurphy]

Hopefully, you are still buying CD's for a great price. It will be interesting to see if they make a big comeback the way vinyl has. Thank you and take care.

[@Harry-ck5rw]

I buy these on cd for 2 or maximum 8 euro, i enjoy my hobby at low prices . And i believe that cd's give a better sound. But all this said, enjoy your Passion .

[@FelixtheMetalcat]

Cds making a comeback? I never stopped buying them.

[@sbwlearning1372]

CDs are absolutely mega. Cheap as chips, durable and above all official releases are now great prices second hand anywhere. Some of the remasters are shockingly bad however. I'll still only use them when I don't have the vinyl to play. Takes £6 grand digital system to get close to a £3 grand vinyl system. A cd of Roni size Represents is very very close to vinyl version though and my 40 year old joy division lp sounds better than the modern pressing.🤷

[@TorontoJon]

Most of my records were from Salvation Army Thrift Stores, Goodwill, or Value Village for a dollar or two each and they were in excellent scratch-free condition, so it makes me laugh when I see reissues selling for $30 to $50 or more when I have originals (not necessarily first pressings, but great nonetheless) for only a dollar or two. :)

[@flouisbailey]

I have never found a record at any of the listed locations, other than Golden Classics Kids records or trashed.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You were able to get your records for wonderful prices. 😮🔥♥️

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

ESPECIALLY when these new releases come from remasters... and don't even sound like the original 60s, 70s or 80s original releases. This madness won't stop until people stop spending that much money and rewarding these companies with their vinyl greed.

[@flouisbailey]

@@KRAFTWERK2K6 May be it’s my ears 👂 are blown like a Advent rubber surround and my cones are shocking.

[@varsityathlete9927]

@@flouisbailey you used to be able to 10 years ago,. now its very rare you have to get lucky. those places have dealers searching constantly and often they just know the people working there and you never see them on the shop floor.

[@jpmarn]

I think the prices of Vinyl and CDs have gone up in Ireland. A premium Vinyl album is about €35 which would be near US$37. A New release CD used to cost about €10 to €12 a couple of years is about €14 to €16 now. An Irish record store chain has phased out 2 vinyl albums for €40 for 2 for €50.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The price increases are everywhere. I guess I'm out of touch with the market. Lol. Thank you and take care.

[@mrhoffame]

I hear you M! AWESOME sweatshirt btw!!! What you are saying is so true. That is one of the things that blows my mind about working at the shop is seeing what lps are going for these days. Basically the $2.99 bin from 10-15 years ago is consistently the $12.99 -$20 albums now like the Bruce you showed or Huey Lewis Sports, Cyndi Lauper She's So Unusual and so on. The store you were at was even BEYOND that craziness lol. Those prices were insane, but of course there are many and are just getting into the hobby and have no clue what is high and was is "fair".

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. The records we picked up just a few years ago sell for much higher prices now. The prices at this store would be laughable but I'm sure someone has probably bought them. Thank you and take care.

[@damianp564]

I'm seeing $30-40 prices on unplayable records (like dragged across the floor). Our local Half Price Books stores can't seem to differentiate between mint and poor condition on most titles. I guess what's hard for those like us that grew up in the 80s is that for many years these were $1-3 albums. The stuff I used to get blows my mind. I miss being able to experiment like that. Speaking of experimenting, your jazz collection looks amazing.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind compliment. Times have definitely changed. I miss the good dollar bin days. Take care.

[@londonrecordlover965]

Same in London, some shops see an old vinyl record and slap £30 on it regardless of condition. I saw a few cases in point at the weekend, there was an original Otis Redding album, valuable in good condition but this one was absolutely torched and probably unplayable. £30! It should have been a fiver at most, in case someone wanted to frame the cover or decorate their restaurant with it, or whatever. Oh well. Greetings from London!

[@Andersljungberg]

In other words, it sounds like there are rogue sellers. maybe those who don't even bother to check the record?

[@Andersljungberg]

You should probably avoid such a shop. Well, that's another thing about the recycling market with a very low price

[@Andersljungberg]

If the shop is on Facebook or Twitter, you can write there and ask what they do. It might have been interesting to hear the apology or the explanation

[@josephpearce3650]

I agree with you. I still go to thrift stores and buy records. I still prefer original pressings of the record than the remaster. I got a lot of old Kitty Wells records for 15 dollars and in great shape. Keep up great work Melinda

[@marktait2371]

our local thrift every once in a whilehas some good ones ive got several kitty my neighbors yearly sale sold me forever young with all the caprcorn stars the mca story double almost perfect condition plus nice liner note and a 60s best of all for 3 dollars were priced 5 each as i pulled more out he said buy more than ten 3 each so.i bought 20 70s cw bluegrass some 60s 80s so got 3 actually great kittys for 9 sometimes can luck out thisyear i bought 10 more from the same guyactually 4 that is the kitty 60 he sold is the cotillion kind of bgrade label but nice quality vinly is 63 or 4 sounded good also think mine is mono

[@MelindaMurphy]

Kitty Wells records are hard to find. That's awesome! Thank you and take care.

[@frankgeeraerts6243]

I stay away from remasters .................some are so bad ( like creamed milk - flat without life or soul ) sounding that I would never have bought the originals sounding like these !

[@toddpratt7222]

My local shops have seen an increase on new vinyl and used prices are going up here too. It's nearly impossible to find the $10-$25 VG+ records that I found a year ago.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I haven't been able to go to very many record stores lately. The selection was good at this store but the prices were quite shocking on some of them. I'm sorry to hear that the selection where you live is dwindling. I hope it gets better. Thank you and have a terrific weekend.

[@monaural2.988]

One interesting side note that they are trying to hush up, but should be shared here; Remember Adele’s “30” that appeared in 2021? The record company was walking around with swelled chest, obviously expecting that it was going to shatter all her previous records and be number one forever. So they price it at an average of $60 to $65. Welp, the reviews rolled in..and everyone came back with “this STINKS”. Come a year later, and Target and Walmart are scrambling to get rid of this horrid smell in their electronics area by pricing it at $10. That’s even lower than any second-tier classic rock or hip-hop act would be priced at today. Goodness, how the mighty have fallen.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That was a definite misfire. I gave that album a listen by streaming it. It wasn't for me either. Lol. I wanted to like it but just couldn't 😀 Thank you and take care.

[@vikingbrace]

I rarely have any luck at a Goodwill and I don’t really have any thrift stores so I have to go to record stores to dig. But I can still find good deals in used vinyl. Of course it has went up. But I have certain cutoffs that I just won’t go over used or new. Vinyl is still #1 for me but pricing has forced me to buy some new releases on cd if I want them. That’s a shame. I’m glad someone of your stature makes a video about crazy pricing. Hopefully it helps spread the word of “Don’t pay that!” Great job MM!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It would be nice if those records just sat in the bin and no one bought them. That's one way to get the prices lower. 😃 Thank you Gary!

[@superhet7281]

Great stuff, Melinda! I agree those albums were WAY overpriced. I love Simon and Garfunkel, but their albums were so popular that they’re still easy to find cheaply. Very nice touch with Jeff Beck’s Truth album in the background. My all-time favorite rock guitarist. RIP, Jeff. You touched a lot of lives. Your guitar spoke to me.

[@Andersljungberg]

Then maybe someone would say either those who sell the vinyl records cheaply are unwise, or maybe it is the case that the vinyl record is not in such good condition and is therefore sold cheaply. Then it could be that a Record shop has bought up a large vinyl collection for a lot of money, it could be several zeros after the first number

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm so sorry for your loss. My favorite guitar player was Eddie Van Halen so I understand how you feel. Beck was asking and will be missed. Thank you and take care.

[@superhet7281]

Anders - good points, but I don’t think that gives the dealer the right to ask $40 for a $10 album.

[@lpquagmire3621]

@@superhet7281 Two things: 1) Since COVID, prices on EVERYTHING have skyrocketed. 2) The pressings in the $25-$50 range are new pressings on much heavier vinyl, supposedly resulting in a more durable and better-sounding product. There's definitely an allure to finding a new, pristine copy of a favourite album from your childhood that's long been out-of-print...

[@brianlewis5042]

Hi Melinda and I am glad you made this point. This reminds me of a NYC mayoral candidate who campaign slogan was “The rent is too damn high” and record prices are getting too damn high as well. For those popular releases, it is getting harder and harder to find in thrift stores and small independent shops. So paying those prices for certain release that are hard to find for many is their only option. It’s terrible. Patience is what we need. Hopefully the record companies will listen.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's going to discourage some people from buying vinyl and that's a shame. Thank you and take care.

[@luvmyrecords]

I miss that guy, and his spots on public access TV!

[@kbrewski1]

Any Japanese import records like that Boston one are always going to be expensive. Its because it's an import. The record stores are trying to capitalize on the younger generations fascination with records as a retro thing, and trying to milk it. Now cds are getting harder and harder to find if you want a particular older title. Thank god I hung onto most of my huge cd collection. Rare cds are the next thing to skyrocket in price. People like physical tangible product, not computer bits on a hard drive.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The Boston record I showed was my own copy that I used as a visual aid. I didn't buy the one at the store. Lol. I agree that the stores know people want those classic albums and are charging a fortune for them. Thank you and take care.

[@zeemayba2169]

Way to go Melinda! Somebody needs to speak out for the collector who doesn't have the cash to shell out for their favorite vinyl. You rock!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much!

[@farrellmcnulty909]

So glad we have alternatives - neighborhood yard and garage sales and bi-monthly record shows.

[@jameswortley6716]

Hi Melinda, it's not just prices in the state's it's mad prices in the UK to. Between £29 and £40 pound. Just breaks me as I love collecting records but at the prices the record stores are putting on them no thanks. Great as always and thank you for the videos.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm so sorry to hear that. You're not alone. Hopefully, this situation will cause prices to come down a little bit. Thank you and take care.

[@mariawesley7583]

Hi, Melinda. I've heard that one of the reasons for such high record prices is that the prices are being artificially inflated by a lot of newer collectors. Not knowing how Discogs works unseasoned collectors see the highest price and don't realize the record that sold for that could have been an autographed copy and they're willing to pay more than it is "worth". Remember, it costs what people are willing to pay. I've decided now is the time to purge a chunk of my collection. I had a yard sale recently and quickly realized a yard sale is a great front for an unofficial record store. Because I'm selling directly to the buyer I eliminate fees and time spent packaging the record for shipping. Doing it this way the buyer (yes, it was 1 person) and I both got a good deal. Since it was a cold day I didn't get the traffic I wanted, so I'm planning 1 for Spring when I intend to do the big purge.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's an excellent idea. I may have a garage sale when I need to purge some records. Thank you and take care.

[@farrellmcnulty909]

@@MelindaMurphy Joe (Mean Mr.) Mayo is on another record purge at the moment. First one didn't last long😆

[@farrellmcnulty909]

Yes, I was wondering what part of the country you live in - seems like winter is everywhere. Anyway, I'm going to stick to yard sales, record shows and the like for a while. I've had it with online sales and record stores - they give you next to nothing what you bring in and really inflate the price. I shouldn't say what the real phrase is for these guys, but it rhymes with "brick groove". 😂

[@PirateNovelist]

Seeing these prices made my eye pop out wide! I have noticed some prices in new records go up. I have seen some deals too. It's just a mess at the moment.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! It's a mess! ☹️

[@jimmyBside]

Hey Melinda…1st comment in a while. Wow nice to see those 21.3k subs…what a great channel. We didn’t build our collections at $40 a record, that’s for sure. Had a local chain open a new location, close to home, on Blk/Fri. I was super excited to get there and support the local business…Only to be let down by lousy employees and big$. I still did pick up a new Cars Moving in Str/Greatest, 40 beans. Cracked it open….it was absolutely filthy. So much paper dust I almost had to break out the Discwasher. 😮 Keep em spinning. 🍻

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. Bad customer service will hurt them in the long run. Thank you and take care.

[@bloqk16]

I became an 'accumulator' (note I don't use the term "collector") of records since the mid-1970s; and became very familiar with albums sold as "cut-outs," which was a record industry term for discontinued albums in their catalogs; or another term would be 'out-of-print' with the record labels; prices ranging from $1.99 ~ $2.99 in the 1980s. With that said, I find it astounding that in the years 2017 ~ 2023, I've seen those same albums are now back in-print, retailing for $20 ~ $25. BTW: I worked for Tower Records retailing in California back in the latter 1970s.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! It must have been an amazing time. I miss the 70's.♥️ Be glad you bought those records when you did. Things are different now. Thank you and take care.

[@bloqk16]

@@MelindaMurphy The things that went on in record retailing from 1977/78 when I worked for "Wherehouse Records" [that is not a misspell] in California; followed by Tower Records in 1978/79; I could easily write about those recollections that would fill the 10K character limit KZbin provides, and then some. The short of it: The work was hard as employees were on their feet for 8+ hours a day; and you had to have the right temperament to serve in retailing; which most Wherehouse and Tower employees lacked. Sure, the employees for both retailers were, for the most part, knowledgeable about particular genres of music; but many lacked the tactful social skills that are desirable when working in retail. But then, minimum wage pay discouraged the talented people from staying in record retailing. Only those that had a true passion stayed-on. For me, I got burnt-out from all the hours I worked with the constant droning of songs being played while in the workplace, which was predominantly over 50+ hours a week . . . imagine being in a work environment where music is blaring loudly, hours-on-end; with many of the songs not to my liking. It got to the point I didn't enjoy listening to my accumulation of records/songs during my time away from work.

[@wrobinnes]

Yes! Thank you for making this video. To be fair, I'm not an active collector, but I worked at a prominent used record store for several years in the 1990s, and the way some vinyl is priced makes no sense. That 70s and 80s soft rock/classic rock/top-40 was SO common. I mean, literally everybody who was alive in the 70s had at least one copy Fleetwood Mac Rumors and The Eagles Greatest Hits. Even with the passage of time and inflation, there is no possible way that stuff is worth money. Maybe with all the recent reprints, resellers figure that since a new Prince Purple Rain can sell for $28 that a clean copy from the 80s has got to be worth close to that. But are people really shelling out $20+ for those old super common records??? I mean, something like the Velvet Underground would sell, but for every one of those, we would see literally dozens of Chicago, Kenny Logins, ELO, the Doobie Brothers, Culture Club, Queen, etc. $0.25 to $2.99 all day long.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. Records like The Velvet Underground are harder to find and worth more. These common record prices really surprised me. I hope it's not a sign of things to come. Thank you and take care.

[@raymondread9484]

Love the Doobies any day (and twice as much on any Sunday)!! I have a mint Velvet Underground LP too. Gifted to me.

[@Plarocks]

The Simon and Garfunkel shown for $25 was a mono copy. If Art has the Teen Beat magazine in his hand and pocket on the back, it is the first pressing. Kinda rare.

[@MJEvermore853]

Ahh...that explains it...thanks 👍

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! At least that explains why that one was a little pricey. 😀 Thank you for the information.

[@Mewzik4ever]

Hi, Melinda: It's always great seeing you! As for me, I am just about done buying. I have over 1,000 LP's that are in mostly outstanding condition. While having the life expectancy of a house pet at this point, I have more than enough and then some. However to your point!!!!! It seems grading records and pricing have taken a turn that defies all logic. At times, I look at E-Bay and an LP that is selling for an absurd amount is not even graded at all. Or they claim they are NM, but the photos clearly show all kinds of scratches, imperfections and dirt. Sometimes you get a "looks good to me" from people who obviously have no business selling records at all. I stopped going to the local record store (ZIA) a few years back. They never grade records by condition. I saw so many that were used as ashtrays or someone ice skated on them, etc... that are absolutely unplayable junk.. and yet the zombies who "work" there put them out like they are holy grail records. Fleecing people is never cool. They want people to support their local indie stores, but that scene has come and gone for me.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I've heard several people say that. It's a she but I understand. Sadly, I don't have a record store where I live so I have to go to flea markets and antique stores most of the time. Thank you and take care.

[@chaky1978]

Good video/ topic , subscribed again to your channel!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! Take care.

[@jglasernyc]

Nice video! I have the McGear LP as well. I think he does a really good cover of Roxy Music's Sea Breezes. I haven't seen that record in a store in decades! I bought mine back in the 1970's.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's a hard one to find. I'm glad I finally have a copy. It's a good album with help from Paul.

[@MetalJesusRocks]

I’ve definitely slowed down on vinyl purchases because of the $30-$40 price for most albums I would want. I have to ask myself “Will I actually play it?” before I would spend that much.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Me too! This is not a bad thing. 😀 Thank you and take care.

[@richardpandolfo4204]

I have a McKay store where I live, and I notice that they always give away their best albums for 95 cents, but they put high prices on the common albums from the 1970s and 1980s (and some of them are not in the best shape or are missing their inner sleeves).

[@MelindaMurphy]

Haha! I usually find a pretty cool record for a good price at McKay's. I also see those crazy prices on common records. Pretty crazy. Thank you and take care.

[@DelmarToad]

I remember back in the day when Indy or small record stores would have reasonable prices like $4.99 for a brand new record at Kemp Mill Records. Meanwhile the same record at SamGoody in the mall could go for $17.99 or so.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! That was a huge difference.😳. Crazy! Thank you and take care.

[@mahabkhatib9377]

I love the sweater, one of my favorites albums, especially after living in Spain. Another nice video, very good points, there’s no point any more in going to record stores, hunting for good deals and great music. Prices became too high and are now based on auctions/discogs and not on what they should be worth. I opt now to buying online more, better deals and discoveries. In a Silent Way, is such a wonderful album, I loved it to the point that became my yahoo id in the 90’s, funny, no one knew where it came from. Great job on those videos!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you souch! Sketches of Spain is a terrific album. I will continue to dig at record stores. I am still finding deals - just less often. Thank you and take care.

[@todaysuniverse]

My favorite record store in Chicago has started to sell their new records at $40. They specialize in Jazz, Funk and Soul so a lot of the stuff they sell is already sold at a premium price. I don't blame the record shops. I blame the economy with everything being so expensive these days. Also, with vinyl being so popular these days, these major labels want to make profits. I've been voting with my wallet. I'm not paying $40 for a single LP unless it's something limited. I'm still going to support my local record shops but I'll probably be buying from the used bins until these new record prices drop. Love the channel and videos, Melinda. Thank you for the content.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand why you are taking your stand. Forty dollars for a single album is pretty steep. Used vinyl is also getting very expensive. That used to be where the deals were. Thank you and take care.

[@jeffsims8270]

3:25 - "Down bound Train" is my current favorite.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Excellent!

[@generalzod7959]

I remember back in the day when cd's started overtaking records. They (the record companies) told us that because the cd was a new medium, the prices would be higher than vinyl to recoup start-up costs and would come down over time. They never went down. Now, vinyl has been making a slow comeback and those greedy record execs are charging 40 bucks for a vinyl record 🙄

[@MelindaMurphy]

I also remember the cost of CD's back in the day. What makes this even crazier is that these records were all common and used records. Thank you and take care.

[@devilsoffspring5519]

The CD itself (not the player) was designed specifically to be very cheap. Small plastic disc with a thin layer of aluminum on one side to act as a mirror for the laser, and the expensive part was the stamping process to put the recorded material into the aluminum layer at a cost of a few cents per disc. The CD format was conceived not only for sound that unlike vinyl was almost totally free of noise, distortion, and wow & flutter, but also because the discs themselves could be manufactured dirt-cheap compared the already cheap vinyl record. Open-reel tape was the very expensive, premium format. Hardly anyone bought pre-recorded open reel tapes, they were much too expensive. Other formats, especially vinyl, were developed for many years primarily because they were the cheapest. The CD disc itself was the cheapest of the cheap--cheaper than vinyl and cassette, with the potential for superior sound (which took a few years to happen--not because of the format as a concept, but because early players had bad problems with mistracking.) When people were willing to pay 20 bucks for a CD that costs 25 cents to make, why would they lower prices? Ultimately, there's a good reason why piracy is such a huge problem in the music industry. If they sold CDs for 3 to 5 bucks an album by the time the '90s came around, that would have made more sense. But they charged what the market would bear, which is how business works.

[@stacymcmullensr9631]

My First Lady Record Channel! About Time Really! Good Luck Melinda For Sure. My Favorite Record Is Isle Of View by Jimmie Spheeris R.I.P.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Jimmie Spheeris is great. I have a few of his albums. Thank you for the kind words. Take care.

[@davidpack4158]

Melinda you are so right ! This is nothing more than a price gouge ! There is no reason for this other than greed I have seen countless of copies of the exact albums you have mentioned for 4 to eight bucks and in decent condition so thank you so much for airing them out !

[@MelindaMurphy]

I like to think that they are just misguided about how to price records but what you said is probably spot on. 😃 Thank you and take care.

[@ConcertBuddie]

On your past two videos I’ve said out loud “PREACH” while both have aired! 😂 Between the Van Halen catalog still not being reissued to this sticker shock…I’m getting whiplash nodding in agreement with you! Even new vinyl going for near $50 for a single LP! 🤯 I have tried to keep my trusty oven mitt under wraps for my hot takes lately, but seeing these used records at cuckoo prices…has me fired up! 🔥🔥🔥 Great share MM - have a great week!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you Chance! I appreciate it. Have a great night!

[@lawrence5368]

Hi Melinda. Great video once again. Don't feel bad, my daughter and I went thrift store shopping on Friday. This one store had Prince's purple rain for $50 and Bob Seger's back in 72, which is a little rare for $80. And the cover was in tatters. This has really gotten out of hand and it's the young people who are paying these prices. I've been in record stores recently and witnessed 14 years old kids paying ridiculous prices and not thinking twice about it. And you've probably noticed that new records are jumping in price also. I guess it's the same old story of supply and demand.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have noticed that all of the Prince albums are expensive. I hope to find that Bob Seger album some day. 😀 Younger people are used to paying the higher prices unfortunately. Thank you and take care.

[@davidbarnes3232]

I’m with you on this. And it seems to not even matter much if its an original pressing or not, or even condition. Nice sweatshirt by the way

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the compliment. Maybe I am out of touch but I was genuinely surprised to see those prices. Take care.

[@ghostexits]

I started noticing this crazy price creep as more and more records get reissued on vinyl. With new pressings listing for $25 and up, record sellers began charging the same and often more for the older pressings. Its very weird, but then everything is weird right now.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I think the more a record gets reissued, the more people desire having the original. Lol. Thank you and take care.

[@ghostexits]

@@MelindaMurphy it’s not just records though, in the US, everything has become a “collectible” on ebay and is price gouged for as much as the seller can get. Anything that isn’t in current production is potentially “rare” and “vintage”. It’s very weird and a symptom of the bizarre economic era we’re living through.

[@kegwfu]

I was at McKay back in October and found most of their prices to be totally ridiculous and not in line with what I see at most stores. I don't know what they are thinking.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do find some cool records there but the prices are pretty high on the popular titles. Thank you and take care.

[@BradVinylRush]

Great video Melinda! In a Silent Way is my favorite Miles Davis album too and I jumped for joy when MoFi repressed it as I just couldn't go for the $200+ prices they were going for on the secondary market. I love your Sketches of Spain hoodie...I'd love to have a "In a Silent Way" hoodie. Would be very cool

[@MelindaMurphy]

I would love In A Silent Way as a hoodie too.😍 Thank goodness it got a repress. Thank you and take care.

[@yyman23]

Great video as always, Melinda. $40 for Born In The USA, and Boston 2? Yikes. There's inflation, there's demand, and there's gauging... I was actually surprised to see some decent shape Beatles and Rolling Stones albums at my local store today for $9-$12. I'm still waiting for the CD resurgence 😀

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's wonderful that you found some amazing records at low prices. CD's are the biggest bargain out there at the moment. Thank you and take care.

[@trev3971]

The CD resurgence has been under way for a couple years. They're still a good value, but check out prices for Ryko Bowies or target-label Mercury CDs; they're up to $15-20 in some cases.

[@ThousandThrills]

As a Canadian, I've seen worse but that's how it starts and then it's out of control sadly! Love your channel thank you. Nice sweater! I should play that record more often, mostly that I have the red and yellow vinyl that came out a few years ago. Paid a lot too 😄✌

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! We should definitely be listening to Sketches of Spain. It's a terrific album. Thank you and take care.

[@ThousandThrills]

@@MelindaMurphy thank you, you as well💛

[@mikelcory4065]

Another great video- another cool music shirt! That’s a great Miles album- you always have the best music clothes on, I love to see what you’re wearing next. ✌️❤️

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! 😀♥️

[@happyhippythevinylguy]

The albums at the Knoxville location of this store always seems to be in not so good condition. I did a video about 2 years ago about this store I see nothing has changed..lol

[@MelindaMurphy]

There are a few gems mixed in with overpriced common records. I do find cool records from time to time. 😀

[@SteveCarmichael]

I get records from many different types of stores and noticed pricing is all over the place. I think it's either one or a combination of these: going by the highest Sold price on ebay/discogs, or applying the same antique furniture pricing logic to records, or the store being in a trendy part of town where people pay $10 for a craft brewery beer. I don't mind paying a little more if the record has been professionally cleaned and put into new sleeves.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! You brought up good points. Thank you and take care.

[@David-wi1ih]

Hi Melinda. Vinyl records are expensive nowadays. Crazy prices. Like your hoodie, that is a brilliant album by the way. Like your video. Very interesting.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! Have a wonderful weekend!

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

On A Sad Note~I Couldn't Believe Whan I Read 1 Or 2 Days Ago That Jeff Beck Has Passes Away...

[@MelindaMurphy]

Very sad. 🥲

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

@@MelindaMurphy Indeed...We Keep Losing Splendid Musicians...

[@capndavey1]

There is this one local record store ( un named he's dating a friend of mine) that prices records for collector value ranging 8 dollars to as much as 50 used. but he does have stock at floor level that are cheap 2 to 4 dollar records found some good stuff in those bins.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That sounds like a fantastic store owner.♥️😀 Thank you and take care.

[@mikespins5894]

Great Video! In my area used copies of standards jumped from about $19.99 to $29.99 a few months back, these were $5 to $10 records just a few years ago, rising prices might dampen some peoples enthusiasm for our hobby. but I'm hoping great new music and bands like "Cats In Space" along with awesome innovations in packaging and inserts etc. will keep people excited about vinyl. Thanks for listening, have a great week.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I wouldn't want people to leave the hobby because of these prices. ☹️ Thank you and take care.

[@douglasdunn4809]

I am glad I found your channel. I agree those prices are insane for used not new copies of those records . Taking advantage of people at those prices

[@MelindaMurphy]

I was definitely shocked to see those common records priced so high. 😮 Thank you for the kind words. Take care.

[@huishaai]

Agreed, i talked to a couple of stores and they said the definately sell less records these days.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I think vinyl sales have slowed down quite a bit. 😮

[@stevenj2380]

This is first video of this channel I've seen. Good content not getting into specialist collector or way-out audiophiie (it seems..) is good. Wish I had more room for physical media (in small NY NY apt.) Been buying LPs since late 1970s and CD since fall 1985. No new LPs since early 90s, as the computer and photography took my attention, After recent system upgrades, I bought a few. Though most of the great shops for such, locally are gone. Space is so tight, am getting rid of most of my country LPs from late 70s thru the 90s. Some of the oldest are reissues, some used, lots of new from then, some cut-outs and promos. May have to toss.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. I'm sure space is an issue for you. Keep the records you truly love. Thank you and take care.

[@mikehatalovsky881]

I know nothing about the history of McKay’s, but here in Knoxville, when McKays used books and records were in an old shotgun shack off Kingston Pike, you could go in there and get the best deals. They also were really awesome when it came to your trade-ins, giving you pretty good money for them. Then, of course, they “upgraded“ to a big fancy new store off Papermill Drive. After that moment, even the sketchiest of their used media became ridiculously expensive, and the cash/store credit they give you for your used items is laughable. I miss the old Brown tumble-down building on KP every time I pass the new McKay’s!

[@MelindaMurphy]

The prices at McKays keep getting higher and higher. 🤔 I still find some deals though. Thank you and take care.

[@RURALELECTRICBAND]

The last time I went to McKays in Knoxville they wanted $40 for used Hotel California and it didn't even have the poster! Nope no way I'm paying that much. I used to get sealed Country LPs at McKays for even .25 cents that was 2 years ago. They have lost there minds asking the prices they are asking now for used Classic Rock LP'S!

[@MelindaMurphy]

That price for a used Hotel California seems pretty crazy to me. 😏 Thank you and take care.

[@DittoTheBand]

Unfortunately, I'm seeing a trend of rising prices. I like that the younger people are getting into the collecting, but that also seems to give record stores the idea to drive up the prices. Forty bucks for those albums, no. Thrift stores and garage sales are a best bet on getting a decent price. I got rid of most of my vinyl years back except for Beatle first issues, etc. I collect VHS tapes. I have a lot of music VHS concerts as well as movies. I used to get them for around a dollar a piece, stores have jacked them up to between 3-15 dollars now that they're being rediscovered. I really enjoyed your video. Rock on!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! I had no idea that they were charging that much for VHS tapes. Everything seems to come back around.😃 Thank you and take care.

[@bloqk16]

Here is a historical reference point when it comes to album pricing in the US: When I worked at Tower Records [California] in 1979, the 'retail list price' albums of $6.98 ~ $7.98 [as set by the record labels] were "retail selling" at Tower for $5.66. According to online cost-of-living calculators, the $5.66 selling price [1979] would equal $23 in 2022.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's a good price for a brand new record. I wish they were all that low.

[@lazycalm41]

its the same here in the UK, the prices now for new records is out of reach for most collectors. Second hand is the way to go to avoid this greed from record companies and stores!

[@MelindaMurphy]

These used records prices in this video were insane but I agree that used records are a great way to go most of the time. Thank you and take care.

[@steveaustin7306]

I've noticed that too. Now 40 plus. Upgraded my dac and I can get pretty much anything from an offshore site and in high rez. First lps were Machine Head and Abby road. Change back from a 10. Dec 27 1973

[@MelindaMurphy]

Enjoy your upgrade.😃♥️🔥 Thank you and take care.

[@ALMOSTMACROSWAG]

dang i sell records on ebay and these sell nowhere close to those store prices. i sell simon and garfunkel for like $5 average - $20 in the most pristine condition. i’ve sold all those records, and do so all the time. super common ones. crazy prices you just showed. i saw an antique store like that in texas while on vacation. “all the vinyl is half off” they said when i came in. their stuff was priced at like $80 or more! i was like what the hell!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Those fake half price sales kill me. 😃 Lol. Crazy! Thank you and take care.

[@moodlefyful]

Picked up the new Gaz Coombes album on vinyl this week, €33 in Ireland, a fan completing his disography, otherwise I wouldn't be paying that much.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Congrats on your new find! ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@jeffreyg4626]

Sketches Of Spain is one of my favorite albums. Cool hoodie.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much!

[@BeatUpRecordsCDs]

Good video. I usually don’t visit a record store a second time when I know the price of the records are too high.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Some of their prices are very high but if I keep digging, I can find some good deals. I found that Velvet Underground record for less than $20 there. Thank you and take care.

[@stevebird9510]

Just today I found an excellant Simon and Garfunkel album for $1 at the Estate sale shop 👍1-18-23

[@MelindaMurphy]

Good for you! 👏 😃

[@darwinsaye]

I bought my first vinyl (Fleetwood Mac Rumours) in 1977 and it was $7.99 in Canadian dollars. That's $39.18 in today's money, so not that weird, but since you're talking about used records, no they should not be that expensive, but just so you know, the market for vintage things has gone absolutely insane over the last 15-20 years.I'm a musician, and I have seen older guitars and amps and keyboards go up in prices by hundreds to thousands of percent. Keyboards and amps I was buying for a couple of hundred dollars each in the mid 2000s are being priced in the thousands now, and some guitars like Gibsons have gone from $1000 - $1500 back then up to $10,000 - $300,000 (No, that's not a typo). Blame collectors and "flippers" - people buying stuff they don't even use, in order to resell at a profit.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! We are all feeling a little nostalgic for the old days. That is driving some of the costs up. You named some very expensive examples. We all want a piece of our childhood. Thank you and take care.

[@DavidRobinson1978]

Simon & Garfunkel stuff normally goes for about £5 or £6 for a good clean vinyl copy, Their entire run can be had on CD new for £25 in a box set or £37 with their Concerts.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! Thank you!

[@paulfranklin8636]

oh wow! yes of course you can S&G's entire catalogue on CD, hell you can download it from Spotify for even less....but gues what, that's not the point....people are collecting Vinyl, you know in the same way they collect antiques.

[@leebridenstine2806]

Ah McKay's..figures..we have one in Chattanooga, but I don't go there anymore as I have also found that they tend to overprice vinyl

[@MelindaMurphy]

If you are willing to dig, you can find some gems at decent prices though. But yes, they are the culprit. Lol.

[@stevesaavedra3609]

Nice video! Great choice of music you have, and agree on price it’s way too high but maybe demand will bring it down 🎸

[@MelindaMurphy]

I hope the prices do settle down soon. Thank you and take care.

[@sharpdressedvan]

I started collecting in the early sixties when albums were around $3.98 to $4.98. Record companies seem to be making it impossible for collectors on a budget, especially those who are just starting out. Inflation aside, this is just insane and it does nothing to encourage new collectors and everything to discourage them. Thrift stores and dollar bins from now on!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm sorry to hear that but I understand. I will also continue to look at thrift stores. Thank you and take care..

[@robertdevoy3119]

When records become the most common way to own music again, then the prices will reflect that. Until then, you have to be willing to pay more. Simple supply and demand.

[@KDoyle4]

Not putting inflation aside, $4.98 in 1964 is equal to $47.83 in today's money.

[@sharpdressedvan]

@@KDoyle4 Whatever. Gas prices were also 32.9 per gallon.

[@KDoyle4]

@@sharpdressedvan And minimum wage was $1.15

[@MJEvermore853]

Hi Melinda! This topic needs serious discussion and I'm glad you're talking about this every so often. It's ridiculous! $40 for a single-record LP?! I was wondering about your copy of 'Don't Look Back' that you were holding here. By any chance, is it one of the newer Sony Japan releases ( like the ones that Mike E was showing in his new video this morning)? Just wondering if that might be why it is so expensive. There really is NO excuse to be selling 'S&G's Greatest Hits' for that much money. I grew up with that record...its precious to me, but the price tag seems downright foolish! 🤦‍♀️🤯

[@MelindaMurphy]

The Japanese pressing that I already owned was an original Japanese pressing. I didn't buy any of those overpriced records at that store. I used the records I already owned as props for the video. The Boston album at the store was a regular early US pressing. Thank you for the kind words. Have a great weekend.

[@jziemann]

Wow. Those prices are wild. I have not seen prices get that crazy in Chicago. They have gone up, that's for sure, but those prices seem outrageous.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! I'm glad they are still reasonable in Chicago. Thank you and take care.

[@chrislj2890]

Just this morning I went to our local Restore and they had boxes of old LPs. I got six of them for a dollar each, Harry James, Stan Kenton and Robert Goulet. I haven't had a chance to play them yet, but the vinyl looks pristine, and even if they aren't any good I'm not out much.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I hope they sound amazing. 😀 Nice finds!!!

[@marleypumpkin4917]

Yesterday I was in a charity shop ( in Ireland) and I got two near mint cds and two new steel forks for one euro ! Why pay $40? I’m subscribing, you seem a very nice person. Ps, I’m not into jazz but In A Silent Way is wonderful !!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! In A Silent Way is a wonderful record that everyone can enjoy. Take care. 😃

[@kguy2know]

The golden rule to remember with vinyl collecting, we don't have to buy them when price is high. I have learned that when it comes to vinyl collecting I am in no rush. I just got the beatles revolver vinyl box set at amazon warehouse and i got it for around 160, sealed and in perfect condition. We need to shop around. I am very happy to be picking up all the Miles davis mofi reissues that are 39 buck brand new and don't mind waiting for them to come back into restock. I live in NYC so I am use to used vinyl being around 20 bucks a piece for OG everyday type records in clean shape. I went to see Loreena Mckennitt in Canada last month and was in Stratford and Toronto- that's a great place to still get used vinyl in great condition very reasonable!! I just wait. I still have a lot of luck on eBay; and even discogs when I want a OG pressing of an album or a specific MONO pressing.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. Patience is a part of this hobby. Wait for the right record and the right price. Thank you and take care.

[@frederickbartel2837]

In a Silent Way is a great album. My favorite Miles album is Kind of Blue. Do a show-and-tell of the Impulse albums you have on the shelf behind you (maybe you already have).

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the suggestion. I haven't made a video about those. That would be fun. Take care.

[@jinedo58]

As I have posted here before I don’t look for classic rock titles in general at record stores or in general,if I find one at a thrift for cheap I go for it. Other then that I go for the music most people are not looking for. At my local shop he doesn’t even have a Jazz or a Blues section. But digging i have found some gems that went under his radar. I recently found a super rare jazz funk album by pianist Kenny Barron in outstanding condition for 5 bucks in his shop,sells for about $80 bucks on discogs. This is the kind of stuff that’s out there in the digs in some places. I will spend more money on the Blue Note reissues Classics and Tone Poets. Great video as usual.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Congratulations on your wonderful find. What a thrill. I do love jazz. The Blue Note series has been wonderful. Thank you and take care.

[@TheKyotoKid]

Prices for older or original pressings can vary by a fairly wide margin depending on the store if purchasing locally. I would rather spend a bit more knowing the cost of shipping will increase the final amount paid. It might help to check a record shop that specializes in a particular genre where a musician that does not interest them might sell for less. I know that has been the case where I live. I managed to find an original early Canadian 6 eye pressing of Miles Davis' Sketches Of Spain for 30.00 at a nearby store, I thought the price was quite fair for the condition. It appears that Jazz records from the mid 1950's to late 1960's in particular continue to rise in value as more people become aware and of course since many titles were not produced in large quantities this creates the classic supply and demand situation. Makes for more of a challenge finding a good copy.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Those older jazz records sell for big money now. You did get a great deal on Sketches of Spain. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@mondoenterprises6710]

Btw, Thanks for sharing your knowledge about vinyl. It's always helpful! It's always interesting to see how vinyl is happening across the USA and elsewhere. I'm in New England.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much!

[@gerardcooney1810]

That Record Store must be in a Tourist area or something,because those prices were very high.You can find Springsteen's five lp live box set from the 80's for 10 bucks in alot of Record Stores.Nice video Melinda.Peace.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm with you. Springsteen albums have always been affordable. What has happened? Thank you and take care.

[@ChristopherSchaub1]

I used to comb through McKay when I lived in Nashville. The prices are nuts everywhere.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I still do find some good records at McKay's. I also see those ridiculously priced records.😃 I hope no one bought those records but they probably did. Thank you and take care.

[@namnefternamn5463]

I made it as far as the Springsteen one.... ....look - I don´t know where you live but here that one and the Boston are still equivilent of 3-6 dollars in all record stores in my area. It must be a regional thing were you live?

[@MelindaMurphy]

These prices hit me as being pretty crazy too. The prices you named are more like it. 😃 Thank you and take care.

[@Andersljungberg]

Demand and supply. the store expects to be able to sell these vinyl records for that price. Especially if it is difficult to get hold of the disc or if many people want the disc. it might even is such that the specific vinyl record can begin to be seen as a historical item

[@MelindaMurphy]

Maybe people do see it that way. The Simon & Garfunkel albums are pretty old at this point. Thank you and take care.

[@simseven4967]

Hello Melinda, nice from you to point out this issue, at the end of december last year I talked with a lady, owner of a record store and audiphile store and she told me that cd and vinyl prices will go up in 2023

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm not shocked at all.😏 Thank you and take care.

[@jacobholgate4399]

First of all, OMGOMGOMG where did you get that hoodie??? "Sketches of Spain" is probably one of my favorite albums of all time, but it was a total fluke that I even heard it. High school, mid-90s, I was at whatever you would call an informal cocktail party ("craft beer party" sounds weird) with my dad and stepmom at a friend of theirs and the guy was playing that album (CD.) I ended up borrowing it for years before I broke down and bought my own copy. IDK about record stores, it's been a long time since I've been, but I wonder if people are doing a brief look on Discogs (I have notice *those* prices have skyrocketed in the last few months,) taking the median price and adding X%. It's very discouraging. I bought Chicago (2) - Chicago IX - Chicago's Greatest Hits (LP, Comp, Quad, Pit) (Columbia - PCQ 33900) for just under $9 in Nov, 2021. Honestly, I think the seller was crazy for grading it as low as they did (VG/VG, but honestly it's more like VG++ on the vinyl (the media is a little beat up, but nothing major.) It sounds so freakin' great. I'm not set up for quad, but my TT is connected to my home theater system, and I have 7.1 surround. When I listen to my (okay, I'm just going to call them vinyls, cause I heard a very convincing argument for that and I'm happy with it) records, I do so in All Channel Stereo and sit in the sweet spot on the couch (or I use Sony MDR-7506 headphones.) Anyway, when I listened to the quad version of IX, there were times where it seemed like the sound was moving throughout the soundscape, with different tracks in different speakers (like guitars fading between front left and back right.) It was crazy and so cool. Anyway, for much less than a trip to Dutch Bros. I got a really great sounding album (and discovered a new band to boot.) OtOH, I bought a copy of Cheap Trick - Cheap Trick At Budokan (LP, Album, Gat) (Epic - FE 35795) for $7 total around the same time. It was rated as VG+, but it sounds like garbage. So much surface noise, it's barely listenable. Anyway, I think there are more and more people who are grading vinyls visually rather than audibly (or they're deaf, so that doesn't help,) and they're overestimating what they're worth. Hopefully there will be a market correction soon. I'm working on a list, that will probably top out at 1000-1500 (but that's *only* counting albums) records that I want to get. My budget is between $12-15 for a good, hopefully OG pressing. From what I've seen, that is sadly unrealistic. Oh well, I guess it will make it all the more sweeter when I *do* find something I really want at a good price...

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the compliment. I bought the sweatshirt from the Miles Davis website. ♥️ It does seem like buying records can be a gamble. Sometimes a perfectly good looking record sounds terrible and vice versa. It can be frustrating but it's part of it. It's moments like you were describing about listening to Chicago that will keep you hooked. 😃 Trust me, I know. Best wishes on building your collection. You are allowed to call your records "vinyls" if you wish.😃 Thank you and have a wonderful night!