Streaming has completely transformed the way we experience music. With platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, we have access to an endless library of songs right at our fingertips, making it easier than ever to discover new artists and sounds. But with this shift to digital, the way we listen, what we value, and even the music we choose to physically own has changed.

Back in the day, music lovers relied on physical formats like vinyl to enjoy albums—a much more personal, hands-on experience. I’ve always found that vinyl adds a certain depth to listening. There’s something about carefully placing the record, seeing the album art up close, and feeling the weight of it in your hands that makes it special. For me, vinyl isn’t just a way to hear music; it’s a way to appreciate an album as a whole. I collect vinyl not just for the sound but for the art, and it’s a satisfying feeling seeing my collection lined up on the shelf.

With streaming, though, we’re guided by playlists, algorithms, and even mood-based mixes. These features help us explore more music than ever, but they also encourage quick, on-the-go listening rather than taking time to dive into an entire album. It’s easy to skip around and follow whatever the algorithm suggests, which sometimes means we don’t take the time to sit with a full album or absorb an artist’s work as a complete experience. When I listen to a vinyl record, I feel like I’m connecting with the music in a way that streaming can’t quite match.

For artists, streaming platforms provide a huge reach, but they’re often paid fractions of a cent per stream, making it hard to earn a living solely from streams. This shift has influenced how music is released, with singles often taking priority over albums to keep up with listeners’ fast-paced consumption habits. It’s great for fast discovery, but when I buy a vinyl record, it feels like I’m directly supporting the artist and acknowledging the effort they put into crafting an entire album.

In the end, streaming is here to stay, and it’s undeniably convenient for music discovery. But vinyl offers a deeper connection that digital just can’t replicate. I love using streaming to find new music, and when I come across an album that really resonates with me, I grab a vinyl copy to add to my collection. That way, I get the best of both worlds: easy access to endless music and the pleasure of truly experiencing the albums I love.