Story perspectives

Vinyl Resurgence: Big Stars Hurt Indie Artists' Releases

12/29/2025

Summary

Story summary

The vinyl resurgence, once a boon for independent artists, is now challenged by Taylor Swift and Adele, whose multi-colored variants and staggered preorders create scarcity that benefits them financially but delays releases for smaller artists.
Tom Norrell, a music label founder, notes vinyl turnaround times have increased, impacting independent artists' careers.
Critics say the trend promotes overconsumption and waste, with Billie Eilish, the musician, labeling it "wasteful."

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Story summary

The vinyl resurgence, once a boon for independent artists, is now challenged by Taylor Swift and Adele, whose multi-colored variants and staggered preorders create scarcity that benefits them financially but delays releases for smaller artists.
Tom Norrell, a music label founder, notes vinyl turnaround times have increased, impacting independent artists' careers.
Critics say the trend promotes overconsumption and waste, with Billie Eilish, the musician, labeling it "wasteful."