The preservation of analog audio was a central passion of mine, which guided my journey as a vinyl collector over the past six years. Recognizing that the cost of collecting often discouraged many from engaging with the medium, this initiative was created to increase access—supporting both those who had not yet begun their collections due to financial barriers and those already deeply immersed in vinyl culture.
The Vinyl of the Day giveaway ran from 2023 to 2025, beginning at No Pulp Records, located in the heart of the French Quarter and recognized as the only Black-owned record store in New Orleans at the time. Owned by Joe Lyle, the space served as an essential cultural hub until its closing in 2024. Following this transition, the giveaway found a new home at Mr. Wolf Espresso & Books, a Black-owned artist sanctuary and coffee hub located within the Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans. This space, created by Wayne Clark, continued to foster community, creativity, and cultural exchange.
In collaboration with Victrola, the initiative also expanded accessibility by providing one record player each month alongside a vinyl selection—ensuring that collectors without equipment could fully participate in the experience.
The project invited participants to engage in the ongoing practice of collecting and preserving analog sound, building community through shared appreciation. All giveaways operated on a first-come, first-served basis, with updates and guidelines shared via Instagram.
Though this chapter has come to a close, Vinyl of the Day will be returning soon—continuing its mission to make analog culture more accessible, intentional, and alive within the community.