New Adventures in Hi-Fi: The Resurgence of Vinyl Records

Despite having been deemed to be obsolete nearly 30 years ago, vinyl records are enjoying since 2011 a major revival and seem to change the way we listen to music again. This paper uses an ethnographic approach to explore the nature and extent of the growing popularity and deep resonance with today’s consumers. We found that many consumers have felt exploited, oppressed and betrayed by the digital music providers and, hence, turned to vinyl as a music format that is seen to be dependable, trustworthy and personal.