Cape Town’s Vinyl Revival Fuels New Music Scene

Cape Town’s music scene is experiencing a renaissance driven by an unexpected trend: the resurgence of vinyl records. As reported by Cape Argus on June 16, 2025, local musicians, record stores, and collectors are at the forefront of a vinyl revival that’s reshaping how South Africans engage with music. From indie rock bands to Afro-jazz ensembles, artists are embracing vinyl as a medium to connect with fans, fostering a vibrant subculture in the Mother City.

The Vinyl Boom in Cape Town
Vinyl sales in South Africa have surged by 35% in the past year, according to data shared by Independent Online (IOL). Cape Town, with its thriving arts scene, is a hotspot for this trend. Record stores like Mabu Vinyl and The Other Records are reporting record-high sales, while new pressing plants, such as Vinyl Press SA, have emerged to meet demand. Local artists like The Brother Moves On and Beatenberg are releasing limited-edition vinyls, often featuring exclusive tracks or artwork by Cape Town illustrators.

The appeal of vinyl lies in its tactile and sonic qualities, offering a contrast to the ephemeral nature of streaming. For musicians, vinyl is a lucrative revenue stream, with albums selling for R300–R800 each. A recent X post by a Cape Town DJ highlighted how vinyl releases help artists stand out in a digital-saturated market, fostering deeper connections with fans. Events like the Cape Town Vinyl Fair, held monthly, have become platforms for live performances and record launches, drawing diverse crowds.

Cultural Significance
The vinyl revival is more than a commercial trend—it’s a cultural movement. Cape Town’s music community, known for its genre diversity, is using vinyl to preserve and reimagine South African sounds. For instance, Afro-jazz artist Thandi Ntuli released her album Indaba Is on vinyl, earning praise for its warm, authentic sound. Similarly, punk and hip-hop collectives are experimenting with vinyl, creating a cross-genre dialogue that reflects the city’s eclectic identity.

The revival also supports local economies. Vinyl production involves graphic designers, sound engineers, and retailers, creating jobs in a sector hard-hit by digital disruption. Community initiatives, like the Cape Town Music Academy, are introducing vinyl appreciation workshops, ensuring younger generations discover its charm. For older collectors, the resurgence evokes nostalgia, with rare pressings of Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela fetching high prices at auctions.

Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its popularity, the vinyl faces challenges, including high production costs and limited pressing capacity. However, artists are innovating by crowdfunding releases or partnering with labels like Mushroom Hour. The trend is also gaining international attention, with Cape Town vinyl’s appearing in record stores in London and Tokyo. As the city prepares to host the 2026 Vinyl Africa Festival in 2026, the revival is poised to put South African music on a global map stage. For now, Cape Town’s vinyl scene is a celebration of artistry and resilience, proving that old-school cool is here to stay.