Music Moments

Must Have Vinyl Records

Few things are better than pulling out a vinyl record for an intimate listen. In our digital age, it’s a relief to slow down. Vinyl encourages you to spend one-on-one time with your favorite artists, or to share the moment with loved ones. Either way, the experience is meaningful.

Muddy Waters – Muddy Waters at Newport (1960) Among the most respected blues artists ever, Muddy Waters unleashes a crooning and charismatic performance at the legendary Newport Jazz Festival. Backed by his all-star band, the electric ensemble leaves no doubt as to why Muddy influenced both The Rolling Stones’ namesake (based on Muddy’s song “Rollin’ Stone”) – and the rock-and-roll revolution.

A Tribe Called Quest –Midnight Marauders(1993)The ultra-influential hip hop group lays down perhaps their most pinnacle work. The chemistry and vibe of the ensemble mixes with jazz, funk, R&B, and soul. The album resembles a vehicle guided by the voices of urban poetry. The vehicle drives you smoothly down the storied, humorous, and haunting scenes of ‘90s New York City – all in a positive, non-violent light.

Reggae: Bob Marley & The Wailers –Catch A Fire(1973)Bringing Bob Marley – and reggae music at large – into international consciousness, Catch A Fire, produced by the luminary Chris Blackwell, is one of the most historically and musically rich albums on this list. The album provides a candid, everyday point of view of Kingston, Jamaica. Mix that with the unique roots textures of Jamaican music, not to mention Jamaican-Caribbean histories, and you’ll hear why this is a top vinyl to own.

Whether you’re just starting your record collection, or you’re looking to add new spins to your rotation—feel free to reference our list of must-have records. A good rule of thumb is to choose albums that you can listen to over and over. Think about soundtracks for different moods, social occasions, and stages in life.While lists of must-have vinyl records are always subjective, we’re excited to share some essentials and personal favorites below.

Prince –The Black Album (1987)A leading musical talent of his generation, Prince is also among the best-selling artists of all time. The multi-instrumentalist was known to play many, if not every, instrument on his albums – and produce the music himself. Somewhat of a mysterious figure, Prince’s untitled album known asThe Black Albumis draped in extra mystique. Prince decided at the last minute to recall and destroy the album due to spiritual convictions. Rereleased in 1994, the album contains multiple genre influences and is sung from the perspective of multiple characters.

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