Why I Collect Vinyl Records

In other videos, I've occasionally mentioned some of the reasons that I am passionate about vinyl records. For this video, I go further into why I have collected vinyl records for my entire lifetime.

[@AndiCat14]

I think I'm the female version of you, Robert. I grew up with vinyl and starting collecting when I was 10 years old. There's just something magical about vinyl that no other form of music has. I would thoroughly inspect and read the cover while listening to the record. I collect everything from Abba and the Bee Gees to Led Zeppelin and Yes. I've had hobbies come and go throughout the years, but vinyl has always stuck with me.

[@alexnejako777]

the sound is so much better on vinyl. it's much more like actually being there with the musicians.

[@scottrap]

Your story resonated with me about how your family would say “anything besides records.” The same thing would happen to me with either records or whatever I was into at a given point in time. The bottom line was they wanted us to be surprised but we didn’t care about that. we wanted what we wanted

[@mysteryc07]

same.

[@lenwennerberg1631]

As a young boy I would spend Sunday mornings sitting on the living room floor with my Dad, while he would make mix tapes for his van (from my uncle's record collection). I remember at times he would sweat it out hoping that an entire song would fit without being cut off at the end of a side! 😁 To this day I still have Beatles 45's i had when i was five years old. They're pretty beat up- but I've kept them all.

[@jeffreylind3739]

This was a great story- and as unique as it was to you, so much of this resonates with many of us. Like you, I seemed to have a passion for music and records ingrained in my DNA. I have a home movie of me at 4 months, infatuated with a child's music record playing in small record player. My Dad played guitar and sang-mostly Country music. I was fortunate to have an older brother (7 yrs) and older relatives who were teenagers and into all of the music of the era- 1960s- and turned me onto it as a kid. For me, there is just something magical about the entire record package, the cover art, inner sleeves, the extras- posters, stickers, booklets- the liner notes and musical credits, and like you, I prefer to collect the original record released at the time. I also collect 45s- I listened to Top 40 radio growing up, and they were the first records I bought with my own money. And yep- when it came to birthdays and Christmas all I wanted was records! Even though I research and buy my own records, to this day I joke with my wife that I want records for Christmas!

[@RobertFithen]

I have a lot of 45's, too going all the way to my childhood, but I haven't really shown many of them in a video yet. I still want records for Christmas, too. Thankfully Discogs wantlist exists.

[@darlenegoodwin]

Great story, Robert!!! I love albums and inside an Adam and the Ants album, I found a twenty dollar bill and I spent it on Buffalo Wild Wings!!! Didn't know that seriously!!! I got into that at 16. A late bloomer.

[@jasonvoigt]

I can totally relate to why I collect vinyl records! I was born in '81, and by the time I was old enough to buy my own records they were already taken from the shelves from the big box stores. My mom always bought 45s and spun them while cleaning around the house and I was always fascinated since I was little. I would make occasional trips to Vintage Vinyl and other stores while growing up. Some older people I knew gave me their old collections. When vinyl made its "comeback", I was happy but not for long as the hobby became more confusing and expensive. Plus, greed among other downers ruined the whole vibe. But I'm glad youngsters are getting their moment with it. I've moved on to other hobbies but I still have all my tapes, records and CDs. Some of it has gone up in value according to Discogs. But it's all there in case I need them. I work at a large retailer and sometimes I'll buy the exclusive records they sell but don't play them. Anyway, keep up the great work Robert!

[@RobertFithen]

Yeah, discovering estate sales really boosted my collection because I had stopped buying records for awhile due to the insane prices people were putting on them.

[@Jiji-the-cat5425]

One of the things I like most about your channel are these stories you tell from your life. It's fun learning about the musical journey. I'm in my early 20's but remember the first ever record player I got, which was a birthday gift when I was little, which was kind of a cheap plastic one, which I still have even though I have a much higher end one now. When I got it, my grandparents were so excited they actually drove from my house to theirs and back to give me a small stack of records.

[@tim_brooks]

i was EXACTLY the same as a kid. records for every birthday and christmas. that’s still the case!

[@farrellmcnulty909]

These days I ask for gift cards so I can BUY records. Yeah the family thought there was something wrong with me, too.

[@cannyuk]

Robert, first time commentator here, but you’ve just described my childhood and love love of records comes from that.

[@duorotarum]

I relate so much to what you’re sayin about your connection with music Robert. I have as much passion for it now - in my 6th decade - as what I did when I was very young. And the journey to discover something new and especially obscure, has never waned. It’s enriched my life and I’m forever grateful for that. Thanks for sharing your passions with us!

[@davidtaylor6663]

Robert you are correct on may levels. You mention so any different artists including Tchychoviski...you are so right !!!

[@bigstar33thriftymusiccolle7]

Glad to see you have always been a self aware person and passion for music in any form of physical media in your lifetime. God bless. Have a good one.

[@arzabael]

A video like this will always bring joy to the people who see it my friend, thanks for the trip down your life road ❤

[@adam_3673]

Also cleaning an old record that is in terrible shape, seeing it shine up and putting this relic from the past into the current era is awesome! Great video!! Lots of great stories and ideas.

[@djcrystalclear8169]

I miss tape and vinyl, and I wish I still had all of my vinyl. Going digital was good for my back and knees, because I didn’t have to schlep crates for my DJ gigs.

[@RobertFithen]

Digital definitely has some advantages.

[@Steve104813]

Nice and it is interesting! I been into 78 records from the 20's, 30's and I got to dial it back man, get carried away and pricey. For LP's got into mono pressing of some things for a while, Stones, Doors, Kinks. Also I loved how much you were into 8 tracks as a kid knowing how to repair them!!!

[@johnmiller3689]

Awesome video, love the personal recollections and photos. You should do a follow up and take us thru your 45 box, would be great with your stories behind them! Always get that Pet Sounds dig in😅

[@recordhead]

Our stories are very similar. Your Aerosmith record reminded me of the time I took my Mennen Speed Stick deodorant (the 80's era green gel) and smeared round and round into my brothers copy of Rapper's Delight. It didn't stop him from playing it over and over and over and over...

[@Mick_Ts_Chick]

Ha, love that story! I probably would have done the same thing if I were you! 😂 If he kept playing it I would have broken it probably, lol.

[@jcm78]

This is the only vinyl channel I’ve found that I can relate to. Thank you!

[@JeffK.]

For me, you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the physicality of records - the tactile experience. That, plus the physical transference of sound from the recording studio to the LP in your hands. Then, while the music's playing, perusing the (gatefold) cover pictures and text before using it for other purposes (70's). Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@djvinylvertigo]

The photo of you painted like Kiss is amazing!! Another fun video! Gives us a great insight into you today!! Thanks!

[@ChrisEstey]

This is fantastic, a great idea "Why I Collect." I'd love to see more VC doing these origin stories, but this one will always be special. I was obsessed early on too, and with The Monkees and KISS, and in a family of non-musician music fans as well. This is a wonderful example of what started it all for you, and our enjoyment of your obsession!

[@toneyisaiah3556]

I stopped buying records for a good reason.

[@the-vinyl-dreamscape5084]

Great video Rob. Music was never on in my house growing up. My parents were extremely conservative about most things. And even very mild AM Pop music was looked upon with suspicion. You can image how they reacted when I discovered Kiss? Ultimately, my willpower prevailed; and my fascination with music was allowed despite their strong objections. lol. Later, they began to regret their closed mindedness and they even supported me. Cool to hear a bit of history. Cheers. Shawn

[@RobertFithen]

My parents were just kind of indifferent.

[@Mick_Ts_Chick]

It's cool that you put the pictures of "little Robert" in the video. So cute!🥰 The story of the note from the kid who was going to run away was funny. It reminded me of my daughter when she was little. I found a note from her saying "I'm running away, don't look for me." I was a little scared at first. When I asked her what was wrong she said nothing, and it was a pretend game she was playing with her stuffed animals. That was a relief!😅

[@ediblehorse]

I would get $1.50 every day for lunch at middle school (mid 80's). I would not eat so I could go buy 2 records every weekend at Baby-O's (my local Chicagoland shop). Your comment about cassettes and CDs being "replicas" of the real thing was very insightful.

[@Diesel65-tl3zv]

Robert I’m a big fan of your channel listening to you reminds me so much of myself, I grew up small town in Midwest so music was something I latched onto I think we are similar age group I had the 8 tracks and albums, only I was never a Kiss fan but more Cheap Trick AC/DC Priest etc. love your humor the hot sauce episode I laughed hysterically, every video I always catch myself checking out the STP No 4 signed promo above on top of the shelves. Thanks so much keep the videos coming.

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!! I was definitely into AC/DC in teenage years.

[@greghawkins229]

I am a vinylholic like you. I am always looking for vinyl. Color vinyl, picture discs, original pressings, Beatles, country, jazz etc. My boundaries are if I truly like the artist price is mildly an issue, if it’s Collectible and I’m not into the artist price is an issue. I buy bulk many times, cull what I don’t want

[@ryanlenihan427]

I started collecting vinyl at 12. Im 16 now. My music taste is very vintage so I find vinyl to be a good format for the music I enjoy. A lot of my friends tell me that vinyl is pointless and I should just stick to Spotify but I don’t think they appreciate how much of a difference in experience there is between the two. Great video Robert! Keep em Spinning

[@sjbang5764]

If it weren't for vinyl, I'd be dead, well not dead, but sad, well not sad, but not as thrilled about music. I grew up on vinyl. To be exact, it all started with The Beatles single, She Loves You on Swan Records. Then I got Love Me Do on Tollie Records, followed by my first album, the American version of Meet The Beatles. I didn't actually buy these records, my mother did, she loved The Beatles more than me. Here's to the vinyl long playing record. Enjoyable video, Robert, brought back a lot of memories.

[@eversosleight]

Waiting for your Remembering of 80s Horror Movies finale 🤞

[@davidspinney2023]

Great story Robert. I collected records when I was a teenager and remember going into a record store and imagining having enough money to buy any and as many records as you wanted seemed to be the ultimate shopping spree. It never happened but I did spend most of the money I got on that. I still have most of them. now I collect CDs people tell me not to I do anyways.

[@markmclaren7577]

I started off with records then CDs which were also kind of replaced onto an iPod jump forward 15-20 years later went to streaming but over the last 2 years I’m now back to spinning those big black plastic discs

[@myleftthumb2294]

GREAT VIDEO!! Yeah, I'd have to say that my reason is probably a combination of my lack of musical talent/ lack of patience to even learn an instrument which is why I appreciate and collect pretty much all genres of music. Plus the fact that album covers are the poor man's art collection. Somebody else said that; forget who.

[@MickSupper]

I've always said that having an appreciation of all genres of music (and appreciating a musician's ability to play an instrument, no matter what it is, even if it's banging on a tin can.) is a talent in and of itself. That's my talent as well.

[@knownaigm]

Your new plan for curating a collection of only your favorites is luckily how I started. I started AFTER the cd era and after I already had thousands of albums digitally so, when I started buying vinyl (because at the time it was the same price to buy the vinyl record and get the digital download with it as it was to just buy the digital download) I decided I would only buy my big favorites, all killer / no filler. So 15 years later and my collection of vinyl is only at 210. I've had to resist the urge many times to buy a bunch of filler albums when I find them for cheap but I'm always glad later that I didn't just bulk out my collection with fluff.

[@RobertFithen]

All killer/ no filler is my new goal.

[@memyselfmyvinyl894]

Pretty much why i do it too. I was into music in my early teen years. But it was cd era. Records allow me to sit back and take it all in.

[@clausfjeldingwhitt152]

Thanks for your story. Very meaningful. Br, Claus

[@jackde1965]

I love your story Robert. It's amazing how young you were and you already loved physical music so much. I went through lots of the same musical phases, Elvis, Beatles, Kiss etc. Good fun!

[@hughsrecords]

Been really enjoying your videos Robert. Real and from the heart. Loved this one as it largely mirrors my experience here across the pond too (although without the years working in radio..!!). My collection shelves are at max too, so I have a one-in-one-out policy also. Moving the "outs" to my garage and listing on discogs for someone else to grab and appreciate them. Keep up the good work and the videos. 👍👍

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@alexcaprio]

Very relatable video. I also have a repress of that Gandalf LP

[@the80slivehere]

Hey Robert: 😃👍. Cute childhood pictures! This video was cool. 🔥. Rock Always! - Heather

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@SDsailor7]

​@@RobertFithenDo you have any records of a band called the Warning? It's a rock power trio. Very interesting and informative video. Thank you

[@SlapDashEffort]

Greets from Wales, UK, Robert. Your one-in-one out policy sounds a winner, although I may not have the discipline to apply it rigorously. I don’t have a massive collection, about 2,500, but there is stuff there I know I haven’t listened to since I last moved house in 2009. I’ve also got maybe 200 albums that are still factory sealed, not because I want to keep them pristine but I just haven’t got round to them yet. But I’m certainly running out of space as I’m still buying. Something has to give!

[@artyfhartie2269]

Some kids love music or reading books. And it's a blessing encouraged by good parents.

[@ThePinkfloyd51]

Great video (again) Robert, thanks for making it and sharing your passion. Makes me feel like less of a weirdo for obsessing over circular pieces of PVC!

[@citizenscriv]

Spot on Robert. I have pretty similar philosophies.

[@psychedelicbadger4092]

Hi man. I hear what you're saying about weeding out. My collection is a fraction of yours ... but everything I currently have, I'm inclined to play. And btw, that includes DUKE (my all-time favourite band) Loving your videos btw.

[@bretcoale7577]

Great video! There is so much value in connecting a record to a moment in time, either personal or cultural. Vinyl allows that connection more than other media.

[@turbomixKWVA]

That’s funny about Genesis’ “Duke.” When you said you have it but won’t listen to it, it reminded me that I have it too..and probably won’t listen to mine either!

[@MsKalachakra]

I always loved 90's and 2000's CD's when I was younger and I still love'em. I collect CD's from that era, that was the original format anyways and that has saved me a loooot of money. Normally my vinyl collection stops at 1989. I have some vinyl from 2000's on but 90's vinyl I have very few, mostly CD's from that era. I don't understand people going crazy for 90's vinyl.

[@djtrishm]

Hey Robert good video. One day I'll do my CDs version of this video! Thumbs up! Trish

[@iainneville7137]

This typifies why I love your videos. Always an interesting topic and so well presented. What a great journey through your life with vinyl that was. If you've got that passion... and you have, you've got to follow it. Most rewarding and satisfying thing in your life.

[@musictalkwithjohn]

I made a similar resolution. I found myself spending my time listening to new purchases and ignoring my collection. I know I have some albums I need to purge, especially some duplicates. One day I will achieve my goal of All Killer No Filler. 😀

[@mike_burke]

One of your best, Robert. And you already set a ridiculously high standard. Loved the backstory and completely agree with your opinions, including 100% what you say about CD’s. Wish I had kept everything from my childhood…..actually my first 40+ years, to be honest. Great watch. Cheers buddy!

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!! There are still a few things from my childhood that I wish I still had. Mainly all the Kiss stuff.

[@johns126]

I was so lucky - my older brothers had a small turntable and i was exposed to The Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Who, Creedance. It was engrained in me and I naturally progressed to buying my own records. I kept my records when CDs came out where others threw them out. My collection was stored in various cupboards and the pressure to throw them out as well was relentless! I never caved and reaping the rewards now 😊

[@vinnysrockshow2747]

Dude i had a close n play!!! I was buying 45s when i was 5 in 71 and havent stopped. I was weened on jazz from my dad. He was a jazz singer before i was born and had a decent jazz collection. He even built the stereo in our house too.

[@kevinjones9685]

Great story. I remember one time when I was a bout 6, I woke up really early in the morning (probably 6am or something) and I started playing my Empire Strikes Back Soundtrack. My dad came in and said "What are you doing in here?" and I said "Just listening to records, dad"--a memory that's always stayed with me

[@eversosleight]

I know what you're talking about certain albums made for vinyl and others for cd. I have the original Megadeth Youthanasia on cd and recently picked up the picture disc vinyl. The cd sounds so crisp with all instruments audible and vocals too. Vinyl, though yes a picture Disc and reissue at that, does not even sound the same. Vocals were put to the forefront, low end takes a back seat and it just doesn't sound as good as the cd. That's one instance where I can honestly say I prefer the cd over the vinyl. Maybe it'll change if I ever pick up the original Youthanasia vinyl. We shall see. Great video, love hearing you talk records and music.

[@Iluvthe1960s]

Great video I really understand and get where you are coming from. I feel sorry for the kids that only know downloads they will never understand the thrill and feeling of going through the records in the shop, finding that one you’ve wanted for ages sitting on the bus on the way home reading the sleeve notes finally hearing that needle drop it was magic and the most important thing to me is I LOVE music and so many songs that are better than a diary an example is Gerry Monroe who I don’t like his music but own all of his albums and singles because my late mother loved him I can’t put on his single and I’m back at 8 years old sitting on the step in the kitchen shelling peas while she sang to the radio, the feeling, the smells everything. Music is my life. Great video

[@spindoctorandhisvinylmayhem]

Really enjoyed hearing the stories and how much you love the music and the records! Watching the these vinyl community videos is what made me want to start sharing my love for the music and records and start to make the videos myself so I can relate!

[@VagueRANT100]

Wonderful life story Robert........I once bought an album at a charity store....I really didn"t want it but thought I should give a dollar or two....took it home and a 45 rpm record fell out of the jacket....it was an ultra rare record in perfect condition....the band name would mean nothing outside of Australia...but they were a killer live soul outfit from my city of Sydney!!

[@MickSupper]

Now videos like this should be a vinyl tag. I have a thousand records but could probably answer 20% of the questions on any one tag. I never search out all of the albums from any one artist or anything like that. Most of my records are thrifted off and on over 30 years and I am not one to know the ins and out of the history of the artists and all of that. I love hearing peoples' histories.

[@mike_burke]

Absolutely Mick! This for me would be the best vinyl tag ever, by far. Hope all the other VC content creators have the same idea!

[@mariawesley7583]

Your denim 45 holder reminds me of my denim portable record player from my grade school years. I'm sure I ruined a lot of records stacking coins on the arm. Have fun with your part time job at the record store!

[@DanSPsych67]

Robert!! That Shadows Of Knight Is High On My Want List!!! Very Difficult To Find!! I Need That Badly!!!!!!!!

[@chasefreak]

Like you Robert, I started off w music at age 2. Christmas '72, Mom got me one of those Fisher Price turntables, which was cool b/c it had 33, 45 & 78 speed. The first 45" I had was a used copy of 'Monterey' by Eric Burdon & The Animals purchased from a local thrift store. Imagine a 2-3-year-old groovin' on that psychedelic tune with its funky bass line, horns and Sitar solo. Naturally, I had no clue as to what I was listening to but, it got my "ear" hooked.

[@RobertFithen]

My first psychedelic was "Crimson & Clover" and "Green Tambourine"

[@patrick2420]

I understand the childhood enthusiasm. I too perturbed my parents (really just my mother) by wanting records over toys. There was a huge Toys R US in my neighborhood and it was right next door to a tiny record shop called Best Records. I always chose the record shop when it came to birthdays and such. My mom one year MADE me by toys and I reluctantly did. Later, I traded some action figures to a classmate for his older sisters Kiss records. There was always a way. Thanks for the video. You are a great addition to the VC.

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!! I remember being taken to a Children's Palace one time as a child and got an eyeroll when I asked if they had a record section,.

[@goleson100]

Fkn’ adorable! PS. I too do not get Pet Sounds excepting 2-3 songs.

[@johncollier9280]

I'm with you Brother Bear...Been moved by music as a toddler 'n collectin' most o' my life. In case you don't know it already I wanna recommend Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring by Traffic...

[@KevinJStoll]

Great personal history man. Mine is kinda the same. Started with that albums where in the house. Than my sisters stuff. Then my best friends brother's albums to listen to. My first albums were the Partridge Family when I was 10. (1970) Then I heard YES Fragile (1971). Then I was off to the races. Worked at KMart as a kid and had an in with the record supply person at our store. Then I would get the returned records for nothing because we were to destroy them. But I kept the one's I wanted. Most were fine. Then I got to be friends with the local record and stereo store owner. And he turned me on to even more cool music. Like you I got into a cassette phase. Then a CD phase. And now I'm back mostly in to vinyl. Like you I love the history. The feel of 12" covers and all the info on them. The mechanics of cleaning them. Putting them on my turn table. Then sitting down and listening to both or all 4 sides. Or I even go into listening to a groups whole catalogue some quite afternoon. Music has always been at the forefront of my life. Weather at home or in my car and even at work. I'm 64 now. My big concern now it what will happen to my music collection 1,300+ albums and 1,300+ CD's when I'm gone. I want the collection to go to someone who will appreciate the collection as much as I do. But that's a long ways away. Peace and Love Robert ! It's all about the music !

[@RobertFithen]

I wonder that too. I've given instructions to family members, but who knows.

[@stevekosak8624]

Great video, Robert I can definitely relate, especially when I was young doing chores my brother & sister would not do for RECORDS! Going to flea markets tons of record stores !!! All very good memories! And I like the idea of adding one and taking one out because my Lord, im running out of space!!! Again great video really enjoyed!

[@ralphbolton4865]

Great video Robert. I also started at an early age and has been a huge passion of mine. I'm also out of room so a few records come in, a few have to go (which is difficult!). Thanks for sharing and making your videos.

[@aminahmed2220]

What a wonderful video have a wonderful weekend ❤😊

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@hansenmarek]

Thanks for sharing 🤘pure awesomeness

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@ptownmusicroom580]

I found an educational certificate and team picture of someone from 1990 in a Yes album that I picked up today. What’s even weirder, I had lunch with Harry, talked about your video and u mentioning his black panther find…

[@millopguy]

I can totally relate to all this.

[@andyshacks7812]

What a great video. Loved your story. Mine is not too dissimilar. I was fascinated with records as a kid. My aunt had a collection of Motown and Beatles and I would spend hours looking at the cover of Sgt Pepper. My mum used to tell me to stop buying records as they’re a waste of money, erm I don’t think so. I too still have all the singles I bought as a kid.

[@RobertFithen]

I still have most of the records I got as gifts. Little did I know I should have been getting even more.

[@JamesMurphyYT]

As always, another top-notch video!

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@chestrendy]

No matter how you take it, when you crack a new one open there's still a little bit of magic there.

[@GRAYSON-vj8qw]

“You took the words right out of my mouth…” - Meat Loaf

[@user-xv9yc4wb2x]

Wonderful video. As usual, it's all bound up with childhood.

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@Axel_Foley1970]

Love your story Robert. Great Video!!

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@davidellis5141]

The first two 45's I purchased were Spill The Wine by War & Time Of The Season by The Zombies & LP's were Iron Butterfly 🦋 Inna Gadda Da Vida & Diamonds 💎 Are Forever Soundtrack. Not bad taste for a kid.

[@CalicoSilver]

I was the same way from the age of 2, Robert. Music all the time. From my kiddie seat in the back of the car, I'd beg my parents to play the "fast music" radio station (I wasn't even aware yet that the "fast music" I liked was called rock and roll). Always asked for records and songbooks for Xmas too - the only presents I ever cared about. My first album was The Beatles' A Hard Day's Night, given to me at age 5 in 1966.....I'd asked my parents for "the record that has 'I can't get no satisfaction' on it" but my parents didn't like The Stones on Ed Sullivan, whereas they thought The Beatles were OK, so that is what I got. To this day, at the age of 63 this year, I still exclusively ask for music or music related stuff for Xmas.....and I still don't care about any other present I get. I hear ya, Robert.

[@RobertFithen]

Yeah, I didn't really understand music genres at that young of an age. There were only two: Music I liked and music I didn't like.

[@chanceotter8121]

I fell in love with movies at 9-10 years old, circa 1971-72 at a drive-in double feature of “The French Connection” and “Vanishing Point” (thanks Dad). Since that was way before Betamax what I always wanted for b-days and Xmas were movie books: Books about movies, books about genres, books about actors, books about directors, movie tie-in novelizations, and the best to get were paperback copies of movie scripts, which could be found at your friendly neighborhood drugstore book rack: Screenplays for Billy Jack, American Graffiti, Two-Lane Blacktop, next to Mickey Spillane and Jacqueline Susanne. If they couldn’t find “The Films of Paul Newman” or a book of stills from Marx Brother movies with the jokes in comic strip word balloons, a MAD Magazine paperback anthology was a good substitute. But bless my parents-they must have searched high and low to find some of these things. And the first colored vinyl I remember seeing was my yellow or gold 45 of ‘We’re an American Band”, as if the song itself wasn’t far-out enough, the actual spinning record was hypnotizing, truly out of sight.

[@RobertFithen]

I really got into movies in my early teens, but we couldn't afford a VCR for a few years.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

We all played instruments and sang but nobody bought records from me. Movies like Hitari and Grand Prix along with James Bond at a very young 4 year old got me into music, I loved the soundtrack to a movie better than the movie. That still happens. Once I got a paper route I had money to buy 45s.

[@Pauldjreadman]

I always thought my love of vinyl stemmed from my parents and my love for creators and creative sounds. My taste is vast from Ambient to Metal. I was never tied to one genre. I think its a physical format as well. That Belly album for $3? holy crap. You work in a record shop? Makes sense. I used to own a record shop :) I still get a buzz from vinyl.

[@toddthemod]

I have a similar story as well. Loved shopping for records when I was a kid (and of course still do). My collection is modest compared to yours though. Really enjoy your channel. Started my own channel too but just getting into the vinyl community. Awesome video!

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!! I checked out your new channel and subscribed.

[@PetesCDVinylWorld]

I'm with you on most 90s releases, CDs sounds just as good or better. I did pick up the recent VH box set with the Sammy albums but other than that I'm good

[@RobertFithen]

For what I've heard there was a mastering probably with "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" where a couple of tracks have noise.

[@PetesCDVinylWorld]

@@RobertFithen Yes 316 is noisy as hell

[@grock9263]

Same story , sold alot in the 90s to buy CD , always want originals especially with punk , reissues good for albums i ain't gonna find or never had ,, yeah history

[@tiborosz1825]

Vinyl sounds better and warmer. Nuthin like a nice warm lp on a cold winter's night.

[@KeithSearock]

I call dibs on that Genesis Duke album!

[@v1e1r1g1e1]

Here's a story to break your heart. I was born in 1961, but surprisingly, I have a very good recollection of experiencing the mid-to-late 1960s popular music scene very well. You know: Beatles, Stones, Dylan, Donovan, Jefferson Airplane, Doors... as well as all the major Australian bands of the era such as the Seekers and the Masters Apprentices, etc. When I was around my early twenties, I was committed to building up my own vinyl LP collection. I had around 100 records at the collection's height, including quite a few ORIGINAL 1st UK or Australian pressings. Among the collection's 1st pressings were LP's from:: [PAUSE: No. Seriously. I sh*t you not} The Beatles The Rolling Stones The Doors The Seekers The Masters Apprentices Jefferson Airplane (including 1st pressing of Surrealistic Pillow) The Byrds The Beach Boys (only Pet Sounds - but an original one) The Monkees Neil Diamond (Hot August Night... Yes, I know. NOT 1960s...but it's cool, so don't judge, please) The Velvet Underground Donovan Simon and Garfunkel Peter, Paul and Mary The Animals The Zombies Love The Bee Gees (Greatest Hits, Volume I. This was before their disco phase) Van Morrison Dusty Springfield Petula Clark ... anyway... heaps more. So what happened? I decided to return to university by 1984 and needed money to cover my tuition and (compulsory!) student union fees among other things... like food and rent. Back then, everyone was gearing up to switch to CD, so no-one wanted vinyl anymore. I had to sell my collection for a pittance! I got basically 20 cents on dollar for a what a second-hand, flea-market place was selling them for. Eventually, I got a part-time job and things picked up. But, well... ''too late!'' she cried! Now... 40 years later, I'm trying to rebuild that collection. I'm only 1/3 of the way there. Moral of the story? Don't ever sell your vinyl. Just... DON'T!!

[@markdewsnap3007]

Hey Robert, great post. I'm sure many of us can relate and have similar paths. The point you made about no other family members being overly interested in music was interesting. I was the same, youngest of 3, older sister bought a few records, parents had a small collection (30 or so) but the key thing was that it was a part of my life growing up i.e. dancing around the lougeroom to my parents records and then once my sister started buying I would pick up the odd one as well. Once I hit about 12 any pocket money would go on records, mainly singles with the occasional album. And then when I got my first job the collection really took off. Then, like so many of us, cd's hit and we replaced all our records with the cd version and then eventually offloaded all the records because they took up a lot of space and we were never going to play them again right? And then iPods (and cd's converted to mp3's) and then streaming and then the realisation that you had 10's of thousands of songs but nothing to show for it and you never listened to albums any more. Started building the vinyl collection back up around 2015 with the intention of getting 20-30 of my favourites largely just as a legacy thing for my daughter. Almost 9 years later, 2000 albums, 1000 singles and 800 12" singles... I have been doing some culling in the last 12 months and can totally relate to what you were saying there and that's exactly what I've been trying to achieve i.e. cultivate your collection so it's "your" collection i.e. remove the fluff. If you're not going to play it or you don't have some connection to it, let it go. And I enjoy my collection more having done that. Anyways, thanks for sharing, apologies for rambling and happy listening. Cheers, Mark D, Perth, Western Australia.

[@RobertFithen]

I still remember the thrill of iPods and mp3s when they were first introduced and having all of that music at immediate availability, but after awhile realizing that something was missing. The novelty of enjoying the randomness of hearing wildly diverse songs played one after another eventually wore off.

[@markdewsnap3007]

@@RobertFithen ditto. It was amazing that we could have so many songs on one small device. And creating as many playlists as you wanted in minutes. But somehow wasn't the same magic as creating a mixtape and the amount of thought and effort that went into making one :). And my current car is the first one I've had that doesn't have a cd player (or tape deck) and I do miss being able to choose a cd and listen to an album. I can make it a playlist on my phone or use Spotify but just not the same experience somehow...

[@nunyabidness4220]

Some of my first words were reportedly "worker on," which in pre-toddler speak meant "turn on the record player." I didn't know what it was called, but it worked, so... "worker." It works!

[@RobertFithen]

That's great! Sounds like you were trying to say "record on". lol

[@cosmicvinyl2937]

Dude we have very similar stories of growing up and having to find our own way musically. My folks were not into music at all In fact it was quite the contrary They were not fans of rock music but I found an old record player at my grandparents and my Grampa also gave me a transistor radio when I was very young and I accumulated records the same way either by begging my mom to buy one at Kmart or garage sales I did find some Johnny Cash and Simon & Garfunkel in my basement LoL! My first record my mom bought me was The Haunted Mansion Disney album with Ron Howard as one of the kids trapped in the HM! But my second was a Bubblegum comp by Kasenetz Katz that featured Shadows of Knight, Music Explosion, Ohio Express, etc! Most of the music I discovered by listening to that transistor radio with one cheap ear plug! Haha! But all the AM Gold and one hit wonders of 60-70’s were my earliest influences! Great vid Robert! ✨✌️👽✨

[@RobertFithen]

Yeah, we even have that Kasenetz-Katz Super Circus record in common growing up.

[@tiborosz1825]

I collect records cause I like the big pictures and listen to the music as the big round thingy is spinning.

[@xz3ss]

Amazing video!

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@xz3ss]

@@RobertFithen you’re welcome :)

[@vaughanwarburton9623]

Some kid gave me Genesis Duke on a home made cassette as school ,it was one of those recordings referred to by me and my mates as " MEGA MUFFLED " 😅 out the bus window it did go

[@asaprabbit8305]

Amazing video fithen!

[@RobertFithen]

Thanks!!

[@dannyvalentine468]

I relate highly to the selling off things to have a better collection. I sold off quite a bit of records/cds/cassettes because as much as I loved em I never listened to them. It sucks but just because I like the album doesn't mean I would ever listen to them or if I did intend too I'd always "put it off for later" but obviously never did. Nowadays my collection is smaller (It doesn't look like it but it is haha) but it's all more personal and varied then before. I shouldn't be afraid to put a pretty penny on a record I know I'll listen too alot then buy a bulk for the sake of it where half of the albums I'll rarely listen to. My thing is every pay check I'll pick up 1 or 2 "pricey" items ($20 is priicey for me haha) but in that case I have to narrow it down but the album is more special for me in that case & I fawn over it more rather then it being one of the few I picked up! Speaking of estate sale and conventions I went to a few in 2023 with a friend and WOW I found some amazing things (Cheap Trick's Dream Police & Heaven Tonight Japanese copies with OBI strips for $20 a piece!)

[@RobertFithen]

I am definitely hooked on estate sales since I started going last year.

[@islandhorizonvideos8230]

Same here, I would make up a list of albums I wanted for my birthday and Christmas and my parents would always say "do you want anything but records?" And I thought I was making it easy on them. Here one thing I want to know if you remember, When McDonald carried albums, it was only for about a month. I remember seeing Neil Youngs "American Stars and Bars", The Beach Boys "15 Big Ones" and Be Bop Deluxe's "Sunburst Finish" hanging from the ceiling in McDonalds. It was strange seeing "Sunburst Finish" with the naked woman on the cover at McDonalds.

[@RobertFithen]

I only remember the actual McDonald's record. It was a flexi-record and some kind of contest I think.