Single records, also known as 7-inch records or 45 RPM records, are a type of vinyl record that contains one or two songs. They were first introduced in the late 1940s and quickly became popular, especially among young people. Single records were often used to promote new songs from artists or to release songs that were too short to fit on an album.
In the 1950s and 1960s, single records were the dominant format for popular music. Many of the biggest hits of the era were released as singles, including “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley, “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles, and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones.
Single records began to decline in popularity in the 1970s with the rise of the album format. However, they have made a comeback in recent years, with many artists releasing limited-edition singles on vinyl.
Tips for caring for single records
Single records are delicate and require proper care to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips:
- Clean your records regularly with a record brush and record cleaner. Be careful not to touch the playing surface of the record with your fingers, as this can leave fingerprints and oils that can degrade the record over time.
- Store your records in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your records in direct sunlight or in humid conditions.
- Handle your records carefully. Avoid dropping or bumping records, as this can damage them. Be careful not to bend or scratch records, as this can also damage them.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your single records remain in good condition for many years to come.
Additional tips for playing single records
- Make sure that your record player is set to the correct speed (45 RPM).
- Use a record weight to hold the record in place while it is playing. This will help to prevent the record from skipping.
- Be careful not to touch the stylus with your fingers. If the stylus gets dirty, use a record brush to clean it.
- Replace your stylus regularly. A worn stylus can damage your records.
I hope this additional information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.