Janet Borgerson and Jonathan Schroeder recently published a fascinating study into the intriguing world of instructional and self-improvement records. Their analysis revealed valuable insights into the expansive impact of these records on the growth of the recording industry and mainstream culture, highlighting the significant role mass communication played in influencing daily life experiences in the U.S.
Their research dove deep into the domain of vinyl records, specifically focusing on the stories told through the album cover art. They expertly unravelled subtle metaphors and symbolism concealed within the aesthetics of these album covers, showcasing a fresh perspective on the sociological and psychological implications of these art forms. Importantly, they highlighted the connections between the album art and the socio-historical circumstances of their era.
“Designed for Hi-Fi Living: The Vinyl LP in Midcentury America”, one of their significant publications, explored the impact of 50s and 60s records on post-war America’s consumer lifestyle.
Dissecting vinyl’s influence on mid-century society
It offered a vivid depiction of how these records initiated changes in consumer trends, while also reflecting shifting societal sentiments.
Their second publication, “Designed for Dancing: How Midcentury Records Taught America to Dance”, disclosed how dance records served as platforms for presenting national aspirations. They portrayed cities’ heartbeats, encapsulated social changes, and romanticized national ambitions – embodying America’s collective dreams of prosperity and growth.
Their third work, “Designed for Success: Better Living and Self-Improvement With Midcentury Instructional Records”, delved into the portrayal of core American values such as self-reliance, opportunity, and social mobility in these records. It also examined the accentuated emphasis on personal growth within the self-help movement.
The authors praised the artistic craftsmanship that shaped Midcentury album covers, crediting the creators for their evocative visual representations. These album covers, fascinatingly, have influenced the aesthetic sensibilities of subsequent generations.
Linking their work to the history of phonography, Borgerson and Schroeder illustrated how instructional LPs have continually influenced educational practices, from Edison’s phonograph to today’s vinyl LPs. Even amidst the surge of digital media, the influence of these instructional records remains evident, a testament to their enduring importance in our multimedia learning culture.
