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Back in the groove: why are vinyl records becoming mainstream again?

For the majority of the 20th century, vinyl records reigned supreme in the music world as they were one of the only widely available music formats. However, the craze for vinyl records slowly dwindled as its competition rose to fame throughout the late 20th and early 21st century. [Image to go here of vinyl records] From the 1970s and 80s came the cassette tape and the CD. They were highly praised for their compact nature and ability to skip to specific songs. They are also portable - a game-changer for avid music listeners - and a lot cheaper than your standard vinyl record. Mention average price of CD / vinyl record. Digital streaming was introduced in 2004 by [Spotify]?, and by 2005 had already increased to ___, and it started to seem as though vinyl records were completely wip...
Newcastle upon Tyne sees its biggest Record Store Day to date
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Newcastle upon Tyne sees its biggest Record Store Day to date

Alan Jordan, owner of one of Newcastle's largest independent record stores, Reflex, was stunned at the success for this year’s Record Store Day. He said, “this is our biggest Record Store Day to date.” Record Store Day 2025 welcomed thousands of vinyl lovers throughout the city of Newcastle. Record Store Day’s 18th annual event was held on last Saturday with Newcastle being home to five participating independent record stores. Record collectors began queueing outside of Newcastle’s independent record stores, as early as 8:00pm the night before the event. Fans were excited to try and get their hands on the 433 different, exclusive records available from major artists such as Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams, and Sam Fender. https://youtu.be/12m5sfT7B5Q?si=ndMsKGjDF_b4JZA3 Queue o...
Doing it Ourselves: Inside the Newcastle Live Music Community
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Doing it Ourselves: Inside the Newcastle Live Music Community

Independent music venues throughout Newcastle are struggling - not just financially, but emotionally too. After years of empty promises and a lack of support from the local council, the people of Newcastle’s live music community feel as though they only have each other to turn to. Newcastle is a city that is renowned for its vibrant live music culture, with the community being at the heart of it. The Toon has been religiously praised for how welcoming and supportive everyone involved is. Eli Stephenson, 20, says "I've been to gigs all over the country, but the energy that Newcastle brings is like no other - the community is so friendly". Image of The Cluny. Taken by Amy Mescus. However, Newcastle's live music scene would have no leg to stand on if it was not for the independent ve...
Sam Fender Ticket Prices – Fair rather than Farfetched?
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Sam Fender Ticket Prices – Fair rather than Farfetched?

A live music expert suggests that the complaints about the expensive ticket prices for Sam Fender's upcoming tour are misplaced. Image of Sam Fender's concert at St James' Park (2023). Photo by Amy Mescus Sam Fender will perform at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on December 20th, 2024. Ticket prices range from £65.87 and £88.37 for seats, with standing tickets costing £82.75.  Sam Fender also announced a stadium tour with three nights at St James’ Park, Newcastle, in June 2025. These tickets cost £83.70 for standing and between £61.70 and £100.20 for seats.  The prices for both tours have been criticised by fans on social media for how high they are. https://www.tiktok.com/@liamgallaghersmonobrow_/video/7427435550396648736?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_...