I had been sitting here, writing this big, long diatribe about how I prefer digital and downloads to vinyl.
But, I was wrong. In the end, it really doesn't matter which you prefer. We all listen to music and consume it in different ways.
I have a friend that doesn't buy music. He solely listens to music using a streaming service. And he loves the music he listens to.
Sure, it's not the same kind of love that I have for it. He grows tired of the same songs after a while, and finds something else to listen to. The way the streaming services screw the artists notwithstanding, it's probably the best solution for him.
And some people like the experience of dropping a needle on a slab of plastic and listening to music that way, while holding the artwork in their hands and marveling at it. Reading the liner notes as they listen. Good for them.
Personally, I just like the convenience of MP3s. The slight loss in fidelity doesn't bother me. Most of my stuff is at 192 kbps and sounds good enough.
See, my ears aren't what they used to be. And, the music doesn't have to be crystal clear for me to enjoy it. That's not why I listen.
I just like the convenience of being able to find pretty much anything I desire online. The more conveniently I can get to the music, the better. If I want to see the lyrics, or know who the people were that made the music a reality, it's all a Google search away. That's just my way. Yours might be different. And that's fine.
So, no matter the format you listen to, try this: Put on a pair of headphones*. Put on your favorite piece of music. Turn the lights off. Lie down, close your eyes, and imagine visuals to go along with whatever your listening to.
Maybe it's the band in the studio recording their parts. Maybe it's a visual narrative to go along with the song. Maybe it's the band, sitting in your living room playing just for you.
Whatever it is, just enjoy the experience of the music. That's why we all listen. Keep listening.
*Don't forget to plug the headphones in.
