The Year in Vinyl: Top 5 Best-Selling Albums of 2024 and What’s Ahead for 2025
As the world continues to embrace the warmth and charm of vinyl, 2024 proved to be another landmark year for the format. From groundbreaking pop releases to soul-stirring alternative albums, this year’s best-selling records remind us why we love vinyl: the tangible connection to music, the immersive sound, and the stories behind each groove.
Join us as we explore the top 5 best-selling vinyl albums of 2024 and look forward to the most anticipated releases coming in 2025.
Top 5 Best-Selling Vinyl Albums of 2024
1. The Tortured Poets Department by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift once again dominated the vinyl charts with The Tortured Poets Department, her 11th studio album. Released in April 2024, this pop masterpiece sold over 783,000 copies in the UK alone, making it the year’s best-selling vinyl album.
The Eras Tour, which wrapped in 2024, played a massive role in boosting Taylor’s vinyl sales. Her live performances gave fans the perfect reason to add her latest record to their collections.
Why Vinyl Collectors Love It: Taylor’s impeccable storytelling shines through each track, and the vinyl pressing captures her artistic depth in ways digital streams never could.
2. Short n’ Sweet by Sabrina Carpenter
Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter continued her ascent with her 5th studio album, Short n’ Sweet, released in June 2024. With catchy singles like “Espresso” and “Please Please Please,” the album secured a No. 3 position in the UK album charts and became a vinyl collector’s dream.
Why Vinyl Collectors Love It: The album’s vibrant artwork and high-quality pressing made it a standout addition to any collection, appealing to both new fans and seasoned collectors.
3. Cowboy Carter by Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s genre-blending masterpiece, Cowboy Carter, took the world by storm after its September 2024 release. A fusion of R&B, country, and experimental sounds, this 8th studio album earned widespread critical acclaim.
A stadium tour in 2025 is rumored, giving fans yet another reason to spin this record on repeat.
Why Vinyl Collectors Love It: Beyoncé’s fearless approach to music makes every track feel like a personal invitation to experience her creative vision in full.
4. Guts by Olivia Rodrigo
Released in August 2024, Olivia Rodrigo’s sophomore album, Guts, combined raw emotion with edgy rock vibes. Ranking among the top 20 best-selling vinyl albums of the year, Guts solidified Olivia’s place as one of pop’s brightest stars.
Why Vinyl Collectors Love It: The pressing highlights Olivia’s intense vocals and intricate instrumentation, reminding listeners of why vinyl still holds such an emotional power.
5. Midnights by Taylor Swift
Though released in 2022, Taylor Swift’s Midnights continues to be a vinyl best-seller. It’s a testament to the timeless nature of her music, which remains a cornerstone of any serious collection.
Why Vinyl Collectors Love It: The dreamy, introspective vibes of Midnights pair perfectly with the tactile experience of playing vinyl, making it a must-have for Swifties and beyond.
Most Anticipated Vinyl Releases of 2025
As we look ahead, 2025 promises to deliver some truly unforgettable records. Here are the top 5 most anticipated vinyl releases that collectors can’t wait to spin.
1. The Right Person Will Stay by Lana Del Rey
• Release Date: May 21, 2025
• Genre: Alternative/Indie
• Why We’re Excited: Lana’s 10th studio album promises to deliver her signature melancholic beauty, perfect for late-night vinyl sessions.
2. Pisces by James Arthur
• Release Date: March 21, 2025
• Genre: Pop/Soul
• Why We’re Excited: James Arthur’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics make this a must-add for collectors who appreciate depth and emotion.
3. Perverts by Ethel Cain
• Release Date: January 8, 2025
• Genre: Alternative/Indie
• Why We’re Excited: Ethel Cain’s unique storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes make her sophomore album one of the most highly anticipated of the year.
4. EUSEXUA by FKA twigs
• Release Date: February 7, 2025
• Genre: Alternative R&B/Electronic
• Why We’re Excited: FKA twigs’ genre-defying artistry continues to push boundaries, promising a record that will sound as stunning as it looks.
5. Critical Thinking by Manic Street Preachers
• Release Date: January 31, 2025
• Genre: Alternative Rock
• Why We’re Excited: Known for their provocative lyrics and powerful melodies, Manic Street Preachers are set to deliver another classic.
The Power of Vinyl in 2024 and Beyond
This year’s top vinyl albums prove that music is more than sound—it’s an experience. Whether you’re collecting Taylor Swift’s chart-toppers or anticipating Lana Del Rey’s next masterpiece, vinyl offers a way to connect with music on a deeper level.
At Waxed Records, we’re dedicated to celebrating this timeless format. Stay tuned for new arrivals and curated selections of the albums that define music today.
AG