In a world dominated by digital technology, Gen Z is leading a surprising revival of analogue culture, bringing back the tactile experience of vinyl records, feature-free phones, and even film cameras. Mike Rothwell, owner of Alleycats Music in Orillia, Ontario, shared insights with Global News on how to clean and maintain vinyl collections, reflecting the growing interest in preserving physical music formats.
The rise of digital music in the late 1970s promised greater fidelity and convenience, with the CD solidifying digital dominance by the 1990s. However, a shift is occurring today. Vinyl sales have been climbing since 2008, and even cassettes refuse to disappear. While streaming remains the most popular way to consume music, many artists, including Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and The Weeknd, are tapping into this analogue nostalgia by releasing physical editions of their work.
This trend is especially prevalent among Gen Z and millennials, who feel overwhelmed by a world filled with digital distractions, social media pressures, and political uncertainty. For many, analogue items like vinyl records, flip phones, and Polaroid cameras offer a sense of connection to a simpler time—one that predates the always-on digital age.
Beyond music, Gen Z’s embrace of retro aesthetics is driving industry trends. The resurgence of standalone cameras, T-shirts featuring ’90s bands, and feature-free phones like The Boring Phone are all signs that young consumers are craving more tangible, real-world experiences. Brands are taking notice, seeking ways to authentically connect with this nostalgic generation.
Source: Swifteradio.com
