Rediscovering Music: A Vinyl Adventure for Seniors

Vinyl records are making a comeback, and there's no age limit to joining the trend! For senior citizens, listening to vinyl can be more than just a hobby—it’s a journey back in time. Imagine hearing your favorite songs from decades past with the warm, rich sound of a turntable. Unlike digital music, vinyl has a unique charm that brings life to every note, making the experience truly magical. It’s like opening a window to cherished memories while enjoying the art of music in its purest form.

Collecting vinyl records is also a fantastic activity that anyone can enjoy. Searching for rare albums or beloved classics at local stores, online, or even garage sales adds an exciting touch of adventure. Each record tells its own story, from the artwork on the cover to the crackle when the needle hits the grooves. For senior citizens, this hobby isn’t just about owning music—it’s about embracing a beautiful blend of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and discovery.

So, why not give vinyl a try? Listening to records can be a relaxing escape, and collecting them is a way to connect with others who share the passion. Whether you’re spinning Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, or a timeless jazz piece, you’ll find joy in every moment. Let the music move you—and don’t be surprised if you inspire others to embrace the vintage vinyl lifestyle too!

Here are my interactions with Sam "Samvoy" V. Manglicmot, aka BRUTUS with his hobby. 

Q1: What inspired you to start collecting vinyl records, and when did your journey begin?

Samvoy:  As we age, we often cannot stop being nostalgic. I remember those days when our music comes from these plastic records that when played we hear the mellow cracks as if “may nagpi-prito”. I miss the sound that somehow defined my love of music. 

Q2: Do you remember the first vinyl record you owned? How did it make you feel?

Samvoy:  Of course, the moment I visited that old vinyl music store, nasa isip ko ay mga big band music lalo na yung nandun yung "In the Mood" na sikat noong 60s. So I got for myself that Glenn Miller Album. Narinig ko ulit yung nag pi-prito at para akong lumipad pabalik noong panahon na pinapatugtog ko ang plakang 'yan.

Q3: What do you enjoy most about listening to music on vinyl compared to modern formats?

Samvoy:  If you want clean audio, modern formats like CDs or the WAV files, FLAC, etc are ways to go. But for me, if I want to remember moments I play my plaka and reminisce those times. 

Q4: Could you share a story about finding a rare or cherished record in your collection?

Samvoy:  One time I happened to pass by at Fairview Terraces, aba may nagtitinda ng mga lumang gamit. In one corner may mga plakang luma din. I immediately checked on them and spotted that Ruben Tagalog album entitled "Lumang Simbahan" that everybody before didn’t find interest in. Maybe di nila kilala itong kundiman and harana singer na 'to.

In many vinyl stores medyo mahal ito lalo na yung maganda pa pagkaka-preserve yung plaka mismo at yung cover. After haggling with the seller, I got this for just P250 having, I said, some scratches pero sa tingin ko di naman malalalim. To my surprise those scratches did not matter when I played kaya panalo to sabi ko. 

Q5: How do you typically care for and maintain your vinyl records to keep them in good condition?

Samvoy: Sa akin I brush them with soft toothbrush at Joy na panghugas ng plato. Then yung glass cleaner with paper towel.

Q6: Do you have a favorite artist, album, or genre that you love to play on vinyl?

Samvoy:  Im happy hearing old big band music. 

Q7: What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own vinyl collection?

Samvoy:  Mag save ng pambili kasi mga gamit kagaya ng turn table o plaka ay 'di naman ito mura. How to save? Sabi nga, kung gusto may paraan...  

Q8: How has this hobby influenced your day-to-day life or brought you joy as a senior citizen?

Samvoy:  The nostalgia it brings.

Q9: Are there any specific memories tied to the music you’ve rediscovered through vinyl?

Yung patugtog ko ng big band parang naaalala ko ung mga Piyesta sa bayan namin.

Q10: How does listening to vinyl bring people together, or how has it connected you with others?

Samvoy:  Most of the time when hobbyists come together and listen to these, kasama na rin ang kape at kwentuhan ng noong unang panahon.

A Note for All of Us:

As you explore the world of vinyl, you’ll find that it’s more than just a hobby—it’s a doorway to timeless music, treasured memories, and new friendships. Whether you’re listening to the classics, collecting rare records, or simply enjoying the soothing process of turning the disc, vinyl brings joy and connection to your life. Take a step into this vintage experience and let the melodies inspire you to rediscover the magic of music, one record at a time!

Just take it from SAMVOY...