Simple Pleasures: Put Your Records On

When was the last time you sat down just to listen to some music? Music is a powerful tool that can influence mood, create atmosphere and soothe frazzled nerves — but so often it’s simply on in the background, practically unnoticed. Much like reading a novel, listening to great music can transport you to other places and times, enhance your creativity and ignite your imagination. Check out these ideas for incorporating music listening into your routine at home.

Give your playlists a rest. When was the last time you listened to a whole album, from start to finish? With digital music, creating and altering playlists is so easy, it’s becoming less common to simply listen to one album all the way through. But an album is a work of art, just like a novel or a collection of poems — the artist put this group of songs together (and in a particular order) for a reason. Try setting your playlists aside for a day and listening only to full albums to see what you notice. Perhaps less frequent flipping from one artist to another will create a more peaceful day.


Use music to create a mood. Be conscious of the mood you want to cultivate when you are choosing music. Do you want to revel in melancholy daydreams, boost your energy, sharpen your focus? Take a moment to tune in to your feelings before hitting Play.


If you have a record player, use it. If you haven’t pulled out your old record player in ages, why not give it a whirl? Music on vinyl has an analog sound that some feel is richer and more interesting than the digital music we are so used to hearing. And there are more vinyl options than just vintage records — you can purchase any new artist’s music on vinyl as well. Don’t have a turntable? If you like the sound, consider buying one. A used record player doesn’t cost much and will certainly repay you many times over in enjoyment.



Get creative with album storage. Unlike the digital music files stored on your computer and other devices, vinyl records take up a lot of real estate. The good thing is, their pleasing shape and artistic covers will only add to your decor. Take a cue from decorator Maggie Stephens and tuck albums into the cubbies of a basic Ikea shelving unit. By topping the shelf with a cushion, you can have a space that’s perfect for listening to your favorite tunes.


Another creative way to put your albums on display is by tracking down a vintage record store display rack, like the ones shown here. Especially good for large record collections, a record store rack makes it easy to find exactly the album you are looking for.


Fill all of your rooms with music. In a small apartment, one stereo or wireless speaker will suffice. But if your home is larger, you may want to supplement your main sound system. Tiny stereos and docks are portable, so you don’t necessarily need to blow the budget on lots of sound equipment — just move one (preferably wireless) device exactly where you need it. Of course, if listening to music is a passion, it can be worth it to invest in a whole-house sound system, including speakers that reach outdoors.



Find your favorite listening spot. Relaxing with your favorite music is a wonderful way to unwind. Taking the time to carve out a comfortable, appealing nook near a speaker will make the experience even better. A comfy chair or sofa, a place where you can prop up your feet and a table for a drink, books and candles are essentials. Bringing in fresh flowers or a potted plant is another great way to enhance your listening space.


Decorate with album art. Whether you have a collection of vintage records or a stack of CDs gathering dust, you may be sitting on a treasure trove of cool wall art. Why not hang a few in your favorite listening spot?


Tell us: What part does music play in your life? What do you listen to when you want to feel peaceful, sharp, energized or inspired? Do you listen to records, CDs or digital music? Do you have a favorite sound system? Share your thoughts on music in the Comments.

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