The Lost Joys of Childhood

I spent the last hour or so listening to records. I listened to songs on full length albums and 45's.  Don't get me wrong, I love my iTunes. It's convenient, I can buy individual songs, and do it all from the comfort of my home, iPhone or iPad. However, as a child of the 80's, I can't help but feel sorry for kids today. Long gone are the days where the most popular form of music was on vinyl. 

30 years ago this summer, in 1983, I purchased my 1st 45. It was "Electric Avenue" by Eddy Grant. I was hooked. My parents had vinyl that I listened to, but the real joy was buying songs that were current and popular to my generation.  It was a thrill to go to the mall in Bluefield and spend time in the Record Bar or National Record Mart just looking at all the records, wishing I could have them all.  Oh, and the occasions when I actually could buy one was a dream come true. Did I want "Mr. Roboto" or "Abracadabra?"  I had to make the best of my $1.79.  Then, the ultimate prize, getting home to listen to it. Watching that shiny black circle go around and around on the turntable while the sounds of my purchase came blasting out of the speakers was pure contentment.  I did that for hours.  

Yes, I am a child of the 80's and glad of it. Passing the time didn't involve apps, texting, or expensive gadgets. Simple joy was found on a round, vinyl disc with the whopping price of $1.79. If you still have them and way to play them, dig out those 45's and let the childhood memories come flooding back.

Later people...