Long playing records are often called by their acronym, ‘LP;’ but are also known as gramophone records, phonograph records, or vinyl records. LPs are vinyl devices that are used to record analogue sound. The first LP was developed in 1948 by Peer Goldmark who worked for Columbia Records.

Before that time, recordings were created on 78 rpm records, but with Goldmark’s novel invention of the LP, the speeds of the rpm were lowered to 33 1/3. In doing so, more sound could be put into each side of the LP and because of the diamond needle (required to play records), the LP allowed avid music listeners to clearly hear uninterrupted sounds.

The release of the modern compact disc in 1982 has become more prevalent on the sales market; however, the LP has managed to maintain its shelf life still today. As a testimonial to its longevity, new recordings continue to be released in LP format.

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