Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) celebrated its 30th anniversary from October 21 to 25, highlighting a resurgence of vinyl within the electronic music scene. Notably, some of the biggest names are returning to spinning records in a vibrant homage to the roots of DJ culture.
The Resurgence of Vinyl Sales
Vinyl sales are experiencing a remarkable revival, with the UK witnessing a significant increase in sales. In 2025, vinyl album sales rose by 13.3%, marking 18 consecutive years of growth. The total revenue from UK vinyl reached its highest level in over 30 years, with record shops gaining a larger share of the market.
The US has also seen impressive growth, with vinyl generating over $1 billion in wholesale revenue for the first time since 1983. Adding to this, the mid-year report for 2026 revealed that US vinyl revenue surged by 17.7%, further demonstrating the buoyancy of the physical music format.
DJing with Vinyl Comes Back
Major DJs have embraced vinyl once again, showcasing their skills through analog performances. Carl Cox returned to playing vinyl sets, revitalizing an old-school technique with three turntables for the first time in decades. He expressed enjoyment in the challenge of mixing with vinyl, emphasizing the traditional skills required.
Armin van Buuren also featured a vinyl segment during his Ibiza residency, incorporating classic trance tracks into his sets and even producing vinyl specifically for them. His commitment to the medium highlights a trend among established artists to reference their roots in electronic music.
Collector Market Thrives
The collector vinyl market is flourishing, with notable releases drawing significant attention. Skrillex directed fans to a record shop for an exclusive vinyl pressing of his recent album, while a rare copy of Röyksopp’s 2001 album sold for a staggering amount at auction due to its unique Banksy artwork.
This indicates not only a renewed interest in vinyl but also an emerging market for rare editions. Collectors are willing to invest substantially in records that have historical significance within the genre.
Record Labels Capitalize on Trends
Record labels are adapting to the newfound demand for vinyl. Anjuna launched a vinyl-only series that revives tracks from its extensive catalog, showcasing the label’s commitment to the format. This has allowed fans to experience beloved tracks remastered for vinyl, illustrating the enduring appeal of the physical format.
ADE Highlights Vinyl Culture
ADE provided a platform for vinyl enthusiasts to engage with the format. The event featured dedicated vinyl sessions where artists presented exclusive sets entirely on vinyl, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the rich, warm sounds characteristic of the format. Technics also introduced limited edition turntables, catering to the growing interest in vinyl among DJs and collectors alike.
Despite the advancements in digital streaming, the reunion of vinyl within the electronic music scene signifies a melodic shift, inviting both nostalgia and innovation into DJ booths worldwide.
Read the full issue at We Rave You Magazine.
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