Los Angeles music enthusiasts are in for a treat as VinylCon!, a vibrant celebration of all things vinyl, returns to the city this March. The two-day event, scheduled for March 21st and 22nd, will grab place at the California Market Center (CMC) in downtown Los Angeles, bringing together collectors, DJs, and vendors from across the globe. This event promises a deep dive into the world of vinyl records, offering a unique opportunity to discover rare finds, connect with fellow music lovers, and experience the enduring appeal of analog sound.
The resurgence of vinyl has been a notable trend in the music industry over the past decade, defying the dominance of digital streaming. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), vinyl sales have experienced a remarkable upswing, reaching $1.4 billion in revenue in 2023 – the highest total since 1986. RIAA data shows that 48.4 million vinyl records were sold in the United States alone in 2023, demonstrating a continued appetite for the tangible and immersive experience that vinyl provides. This growing demand has fueled the rise of record fairs and conventions like VinylCon!, catering to a dedicated community of collectors and audiophiles.
A Hub for Vinyl Enthusiasts
VinylCon! aims to provide a comprehensive experience for vinyl aficionados, with over 80 individual sellers offering a diverse selection of records. These vendors range from professional resellers and established record stores to individual collectors looking to share their passion and trade their prized possessions. The event promises a wide array of genres, encompassing classic rock, hip-hop, punk, jazz, and everything in between, ensuring there’s something to appeal to every musical taste. Beyond the records themselves, attendees can also expect to find music memorabilia and related ephemera, adding another layer of excitement for collectors.
The California Market Center, the event’s venue, is a significant landmark in the Los Angeles fashion, creative, and entertainment industries. According to VinylCon!’s website, the event will be held in “The Loft” event space in Building C, on the 10th floor. The CMC offers convenient access and parking, with a dedicated garage available for just $5. Ride-sharing services also have designated drop-off and pick-up locations nearby, making it easily accessible for attendees from across the city and beyond. The CMC’s location in the heart of downtown Los Angeles further enhances the event’s appeal, placing it within reach of numerous hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Music and Atmosphere
VinylCon! isn’t just about browsing and buying records; it’s also about immersing oneself in the vibrant culture surrounding vinyl. The event will feature a lineup of DJs spinning tunes throughout the weekend, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The scheduled DJ roster includes PWC, Double Peas, House Shoes, Skeme Richards, Raquiqui and Con Safos on Saturday, March 21st, and Zach Cowie, Sky Society, Cut Chemist, and Large Pro on Sunday, March 22nd. These DJs represent a diverse range of styles and expertise, promising a soundtrack that complements the event’s eclectic mix of musical offerings.
The event’s schedule is structured to maximize the experience for attendees. Doors open at 10:00 AM for early entry ticket holders on Saturday, March 21st, followed by general admission at 12:00 PM. The venue will close at 5:00 PM on Saturday. On Sunday, March 22nd, doors open at 10:00 AM for general admission, with the event concluding at 4:00 PM. This carefully planned schedule allows attendees ample time to explore the vendor booths, discover modern music, and enjoy the overall atmosphere of the convention.
The Growth of VinylCon!
VinylCon! has rapidly expanded since its inception in 2023, establishing itself as a prominent event in the vinyl community. The convention has already established recurring editions in Atlanta, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Denver, demonstrating its growing popularity and reach. The Los Angeles debut in the summer of 2023, as reported by the Orange County Register, drew over 2,500 attendees and featured more than 80 record dealers from across the United States and even international vendors from Japan and the Netherlands. Organizers noted that the first Los Angeles edition was one of the largest record fairs the city had seen in years, attracting a diverse crowd of collectors, DJs, and music industry professionals.
Kobi Waldfogel, founder of VinylCon!, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s return to Los Angeles, stating in a press release that the first edition “exceeded all of our expectations” and that the organizers were “blown away by the support from the LA music community.” This positive response underscores the strong demand for vinyl-focused events in the city and sets the stage for an even more successful gathering this spring.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets for VinylCon! Los Angeles are currently on sale and can be purchased through The Ticketing Co.. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to secure their entry and avoid potential lines at the door. The California Market Center is located at 110 East Ninth St, Los Angeles, CA 90079. Public transportation options are readily available, with several bus lines and the Metro Rail serving the downtown Los Angeles area. For those driving, parking is available in the CMC garage for a fee of $5.
VinylCon! represents more than just a record fair; it’s a celebration of a beloved musical format and a gathering place for a passionate community. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual listener, or simply curious about the world of vinyl, this event offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of analog sound and connect with fellow music enthusiasts. The event’s return to Los Angeles promises to be a highlight of the spring calendar for music lovers throughout Southern California and beyond.
As VinylCon! prepares to welcome attendees this March, the event serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of vinyl records in an increasingly digital world. The continued growth of the vinyl market and the success of events like VinylCon! demonstrate that the tactile experience, the warm sound, and the cultural significance of vinyl continue to resonate with music lovers of all ages.
Stay tuned for further updates and announcements regarding VinylCon! Los Angeles. We encourage readers to share their experiences and thoughts on the event in the comments below.