Exploring Illinois' Legendary Record Labels: A Musical Heritage Worth Rediscovering

Explore the rich history of legendary Illinois record labels like Chess, Vee-Jay, Delmark, and Curtom. Learn about collectible Illinois vinyl records and how you can sell yours today!

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Beyond Vinyl: The Rising Tide of CDs, Cassettes, and a New Physical Media Renaissance

Vinyl is booming, but CDs and cassettes are making a surprise comeback. Discover what’s driving the physical media resurgence in music—and why it might just be the future.

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Sell Vinyl Records in Chicago’s Western Suburbs | We Buy LPs & 45s

If you live in Westchester or any of the nearby west suburbs of Chicago and are wondering where to sell your vinyl records, you’re in the right place. At We Buy Records, we purchase LPs, 45s, and full collections directly from sellers across the western suburbs — no need to list online or haul them into the city.

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Unearthing Illinois Soul: A Deep Dive into the New Book by Numero & Dante Carfagna

The soul music history of Illinois runs deeper than most collectors realize — and thanks to a stunning new release by Numero Group, there’s finally a definitive guide to the obscure 45s and long-lost labels that once brought soul to every corner of the state.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
🎧 The Most Valuable Vinyl Records Sold in 2024 — And What They Reveal About Collecting Trends

The vinyl market continues to thrive, with collectors and enthusiasts driving demand for rare and valuable records. In 2024, several notable sales have highlighted emerging trends and underscored the enduring appeal of physical media. This post explores some of the most significant vinyl sales of the year and analyzes what they indicate about the current state of vinyl collecting.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Selling Your Vinyl Records in Chicago: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Cash for Your Albums

Vinyl records have seen a resurgence in popularity, making them highly sought after by collectors and music enthusiasts alike. Certain genres and artists, especially those rooted in Chicago's rich musical history—such as blues, jazz, and soul—can be particularly valuable.

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How to Do Record Store Day Right: 5 Tips from a Record Store Day Shop Owner for 2025

If you are a vinyl lover, you probably look forward to RSD every year. But how can you make the most of this special day and avoid disappointment? Here are some tips from a record store owner who has been participating in RSD since 2007.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Who Buys Old Records Near Me? Get Cash for Vinyl Records Fast

If you’ve ever searched for “who buys old records near me,” you’re likely looking to sell a vinyl collection quickly and for the best price. Whether you’re downsizing, settling an estate, or simply need some extra cash, We Buy Records offers a hassle-free way to turn your vinyl into money. With over 25 years of experience in the vinyl buying business, we make selling your records easy, fast, and profitable.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
We Buy Records Chicago Celebrates 5 Years Amid Vinyl Resurgence

We Buy Records Chicago was founded by Andy Noble and Brian Cote, both longtime record collectors who realized their informal record-dealing businesses needed to evolve as they started families. "We had to get more serious about what we were doing," Noble recalls. "We also wanted to cover as much ground as possible in and around Chicago, knowing there were incredible record collections to uncover across Illinois and Indiana."

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The History of Vinyl Record Stores in America: From Boom to Revival

The earliest record stores in America weren’t actually dedicated to vinyl at all. Before LPs and 45s became the standard, shops primarily sold sheet music, phonographs, and shellac 78s. These businesses were often attached to radio or department stores, where music lovers could browse and sample recordings before making a purchase.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Essential 90s Vinyl Records: Rare Gems from a Digital Decade

Explore must-have 90s vinyl records - from grunge to hip-hop to electronic. Sell or buy your collection today - call We Buy Records Chicago!

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Must-Have Vinyl: The Best Records From the ‘80s

The 1980s brought us an incredible array of music across genres, with vinyl records capturing the sound and spirit of the decade. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to vinyl, the '80s offer a treasure trove of albums worth adding to your collection. Here's our curated list of the best 1980s vinyl records—classics and cult favorites that define the era.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Record Stores vs. Online Platforms: Where Should You Sell Your Vinyl?

Looking to sell your vinyl collection but unsure whether to go digital or brick-and-mortar? The resurgence of vinyl records has created multiple viable selling options, each with distinct advantages. Let's explore the best places to sell your records and help you make an informed decision.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
45 RPM vs. 33 RPM Records: Which Format is More Valuable to Collectors?

The value proposition of both formats continues to evolve. While 33 RPM records maintain their position as the dominant format in terms of market share and consistent collectibility, the high-end 45 RPM market demonstrates that size doesn't always correlate with value in the collecting world.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Where to Buy Vinyl Records: Why Record Conventions Are the Collector's Best-Kept Secret

In an era where vinyl records have made an unprecedented comeback, many collectors—especially newcomers to the hobby—might wonder where to buy vinyl records beyond the usual channels. While online marketplaces like Discogs and trendy urban record shops have become the go-to destinations for many vinyl enthusiasts, record conventions remain an often-overlooked treasure trove for serious collectors seeking rare finds and incredible deals.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Album vs Record: Decoding Vinyl Terminology for Sellers

Are you considering parting ways with your cherished vinyl collection but feeling overwhelmed by the terminology? You're not alone. Many music enthusiasts find themselves pondering the difference between an "album" and a "record" when it comes time to sell. In this comprehensive guide, we'll demystify these terms, explore the world of vinyl, and provide valuable insights for those looking to sell their collections. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your vinyl treasures.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Vinyl Record Collector or Hoarder? A Philosophy That Makes Sense

Vinyl Record Collector or Hoarder?

The Bonzai Theory of keeping it clean!

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Collecting Chicago Soul: A Guide to Rare LPs and 45s

. For collectors, Chicago soul LPs and 45s represent not just a sound, but a piece of history – one that continues to captivate audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Must-Have Vinyl: The Best Records from the '70s

The 1970s was a golden era for music, producing some of the most iconic and influential albums of all time. For vinyl enthusiasts and collectors, records from the '70s represent a treasure trove of musical genius waiting to be discovered. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best vinyl records from the '70s, covering legendary artists and hidden gems that deserve a place in any serious collection.

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Andy NobleWe Buy Records
Collecting Local Vinyl Records

A YouTube video about collecting local vinyl records

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