165. Sounds of Nostalgia: World of OPM Vinyl Record Collecting

 

As a child of the 80s, I had the privilege of experiencing the tail end of the vinyl era before CDs took over the music scene. During that time, my musical preferences leaned heavily towards the new wave genre, particularly British bands like Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, and Spandau Ballet. Their records, with their beautiful album covers and catchy tunes, became cherished possessions in my collection. I vividly remember spending hours immersed in the vibrant sounds of my favorite albums, occasionally indulging in Michael Jackson's iconic "Thriller."

While my musical interests primarily revolved around international artists, I had a passing familiarity with Philippine music of the time. I couldn't escape the infectious melodies of APO's catchy songs or the powerful energy of The Dawn's "Envelope of Ideas" playing on the radio. Although I appreciated their music, I never felt compelled to purchase their records or go deeper into the local music scene.

Fast forward to the early 2000s, when a wave of nostalgia washed over me, igniting my interest in vinyl records once again. However, this time around, I found myself drawn to a different sound—Pinoy Rock music from the 70s. I eagerly sought out vinyl records by iconic Filipino bands such as Juan Dela Cruz Band, Maria Cafra, Anak Bayan, and Sampaguita. The lively and disco nature of Manila Sound made by VST and Hotdog became a newfound passion. The thrill of discovering albums from the golden age of Pinoy Rock and Manila Sound became an addiction, fueling my desire to expand my collection. I also became captivated by the Bossa Nova sound of Bong Penera, with its resemblance to the Samba songs of Antonio Carlos Jobim.

As I delved deeper into the world of OPM (Original Pilipino Music) vinyl, a profound sense of longing enveloped me, connecting me to the sounds I had heard while growing up. The music that once filled the airwaves during my younger years now transported me back to a time of innocence and youthful exuberance. Each crackle and pop on the vinyl surface evoked memories of listening to these songs, embracing the spirit of the era. Collecting OPM vinyl records became more than just a hobby; it became a tangible connection to my past and a celebration of Filipino musical heritage.

In my quest to build an extensive OPM vinyl collection, I began seeking out other notable artists from the time. I discovered the pop songs of Sharon Cuneta and Celeste Legaspi, two iconic figures in the Philippine music industry. Their records not only showcased their vocal prowess but also captured the essence of Pinoy pop music during the 80s.

Additionally, I found myself delving into the music of other influential Filipino artists from the 80s and 90s. The likes of Regine Velasquez, Lea Salonga, Janno Gibbs, Manilyn Reynes, Joey Albert, Martin Nievera, and Gary Valenciano became integral to my collection. Their records represented a diverse range of musical styles, from power ballads to upbeat pop hits. Each vinyl album carried the signature sound and talent of these artists, serving as a time capsule of the 80s music scene in the Philippines.

Collecting OPM vinyl records allowed me to rekindle my love for Filipino music and appreciate the artistry that had once shaped our nation's musical landscape. As the needle finds its groove on each vinyl record, the nostalgia, the memories, and the passion for music intertwine, creating a tapestry of emotions that transcends time. My journey into the world of OPM vinyl has been a reminder of the power of music to connect us to our roots, evoke cherished memories, and keep the spirit of our musical past alive.