In an age of digital downloads and technological advancements in the music industry, I must admit to being one of those few remaining who still prefer buying hardcopy CDs. And there is a reason to that.

 

I am a supporter of the music industry and in particular, good local music. I also attempt to regularly attend local concerts and events to see artists perform live. I feel it’s one way of showing support and encouraging them to continue with their craft. There really is something special about an artist who can capture an audience through a live experience. I feel there are local artists that brew quality products in their albums and deservedly earn our support, admiration and spending money. That’s not only why I still love buying hardcopy music…

I have been buying CDs for as long as I can recall and I fear that my CD collection is not taking the appropriate podium that it rightfully deserves in my life. And I must sort this out, urgently. My CDs are all over the show: in the car, in the lounge, in my wardrobe, the bedroom, in my work bag and some even at my workplace desk. My CDs are literally everywhere I go and are a part of me. Not so sure if I am the only one in the planet with this addiction or is it a disease? Anyways, I would be elated to know if there are others like me. This practise of buying CDs for me is not dying down anytime soon. I remember recently making a serious U-turn while driving around in the Krugersdorp area some time ago, after I saw a big ‘Clearance Sale’ billboard for a popular CD and DVD store that was closing its doors for good. I had to. And I am glad I did. I bagged myself scores of CDs at ridiculous prizes. I felt like I was biggest winner. I mean, CDs for R5?

Back to why I still prefer buying CDs.

I have been exposed to digital downloads that seem to be convenient and immediately available and even though I understand the vision of the mediums, I am still adamant that the hardcopy route still works well for me. Call me old-school.

1. Exploring the CD is a journey for me.

From the cover, the album sleeve to the overall design of it – there is a journey that I embark on after grabbing hold of one. I get to question the cover and thought process behind certain shots, themes and vision behind the image that the artist (or team)chooses to put in that coveted spot. I always like to see how the artist merges the name of the album into the overall sound, look and feel of the CD cover. Local band, Mafikizolo are mastermind examples of brilliant CD covers that tell a story.

2. Get closer to the artist.

The CD allows you the opportunity to get closer to an artist, it let’s you into their personal space. One gets to know who is their producer, who mixes the tunes and beats, who the band members are, if they have back-up singers or not and who the artist’s manager/management team is without the need to bother Oom Google. This is important information to know especially if you are interested to know and follow that artist well. Get access to the contact information when you want to make a booking for instance with ease from the CD.

3. Know more about the artist.

A CD gives you quick and direct access to know if the artist is versatile or not. What else does the artist do besides singing for instance? Know which songs the artist has written themselves or which ones were written by someone else, where the album was recorded or mixed and who collaborated with the artist on the project. Which management team does the artist fall under? You will be surprised to know even that the artist manages themselves or even does their own backing vocals for example.

4. The Thank You’s.

The CD cover gets you a window to the artist’s thoughts through the Thank You section. I must admit, some artists have a thesis for this part and the small font and busy background does not make things any easier to read. This section of the CD let’s you in on who the artist holds most dear. The artist’s ego can easily be picked up from this, some don’t even bother thanking the fans i.e. the person who is actually taking some time to read the album sleeve and get a hold of the CD itself. So a word of advice to artists, please take this part of your CD album seriously. There are people, like myself, who (eagerly) take time to scrutinize and read the contents.

5. Lyrics.

Why must I get an artist’s CD and then still have to google their lyrics? I never seem to get this logic. I love those CDs and artists who always ensure that they have lyrics on their CD covers. Give me some perks and benefits for the trouble would you, why not? A CD cover cuts the whole process and bother of having to learn lyrics or meanings of the song the long way.

6. Personalized signed copy.

I think artists like seeing a follower come up to them with a copy of their CD, requesting an autograph. I always treasure those few signed CDs of mine and I am sure you would yours too. I think this is an age-old tradition that will not look old or die out anytime soon.

So, if you are like me, take good care of that growing CD collection of yours. Do not allow people to borrow your CDs forever and a day (chances are they are making copies of them or burning them) and some will never make their way back to you. If you prefer downloading your artist’s album as opposed to owning a CD, big ups on you too. We both are adding to their fan base and their support either way.