Rock Out with Your Own Collection of Music Memorabilia
- America's Antique Mall
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Rock, pop, techno, rap, R&B, folk: when it comes to collecting music memorabilia, it doesn’t matter what or who you’re listening to—there’s something for everyone! In fact, some fans have been curating their collection for years without even knowing it. If you’ve ever saved the ticket stubs from the concerts of your favorite musician or ran across the thrift store at the sight of the latest vinyl record, you were made for collecting.
The good news? Starting your own collection is easier than you’d think—especially when you follow our lead. It’s time to learn about the most popular types of music memorabilia and discover where to find your next treasured possession!
Define Music Memorabilia
Music memorabilia is an umbrella term for any collectible object that relates to musicians, bands, or other musical events. This includes a wide range of items, from the band merchandise sold at concerts to instruments used by famous musicians for classic albums and more. Some people spend their money collecting film memorabilia or vintage sports memorabilia—others prefer to rock out with vinyl records and signed set lists!
Why Do People Collect Music Memorabilia?
Collecting is a nostalgia-driven hobby, and music memorabilia is no different. Owning something that used to belong to your favorite artist connects you to their legacy. Something as seemingly mundane as a vinyl record can evoke happy memories from a different era of your life and represent your love for that musician. How powerful is that?
Some collectors spend their time curating complete collections and finding rare pieces in an attempt to turn a profit—and rest assured, it’s possible! Certain types of music memorabilia have as much monetary value as they do sentimental value. They can even appreciate financially as time goes by! As the years pass and it becomes even more sought after, the rate will increase.
Can Anyone Collect Music Memorabilia?
Collecting music memorabilia is not an exclusive hobby—anyone can do it! From casual everyday collectors who save classic albums from the concerts they attend to the celebrities who spend millions to own original song lyrics to the collections at the Hard Rock Cafe, memorabilia can be collected at any scale. All you need is a little bit of passion!
Popular Types of Memorabilia to Collect for Music Lovers
Your collection of memorabilia can be completely unique to you! When you shop at Highland antique malls, you’re sure to see these popular items on display:
Vinyl Records and CDs
In an age of online streaming services, physical media has become all the rage. In terms of music memorabilia, that typically refers to collecting vinyl records and CDs! Whether you’re collecting classic albums to display on your wall or searching for a fully working vintage record player system, buying tangible copies of your favorite artist’s work is a fun and easy way to grow your collection.
Popular Classic Albums to Look For as Vinyl Records
True audio aficionados swear up and down that listening to tracks on vinyl is just better. From sound quality to the retro experience of having to flip the vinyl record over to the B-side, the experience can’t be topped. Especially when you come across an original press of one of these popular, collectible classic albums:
The Wall by Pink Floyd (1979)
Abbey Road by The Beatles (1969)
Blood on the Tracks by Bob Dylan (1975)
Rumors by Fleetwood Mac (1977)
Purple Rain by Prince (1984)
Autographs and Handwritten Song Documents
Is there anything more exciting for a fan than owning something your idol wrote with their own hands? Music memorabilia collectors don’t think so! One of the hottest collectibles in this hobby includes autographs, handwritten song lyrics, and other documents important to the creation of a classic album. Autographs can be found on scraps of paper (often treasured by the recipient for the rest of their lives) or other types of collectibles, like electric guitars and posters.
Does an Autograph Ruin the Value of Music Memorabilia?
Whether or not the autograph adds monetary value can vary from collector to collector. While it’s always a cool and sentimental find, it can technically cause the piece of music memorabilia to lose value. If the item is rare, but the autograph is not, it detracts from the price: if it’s a rare item and a signature from someone who never autographs items, the value could skyrocket! It’s a fickle fact when it comes to vinyl records and guitars, so it’s always worth talking with the vendors to discuss a price that’s fair.
Musical Instruments and Equipment
It’s every music memorabilia collector’s dream to own the actual musical instruments their favorite classic albums were created with. Guitars, basses, drum sets, cymbals, drumsticks, straps, and even picks can all be bought and sold at incredibly high prices.
Most of the famous instruments have been donated to museums or bought for millions by private collectors and celebrities—but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a shot! Scour online forums and keep your radar strong. Who knows what incredible finds you may discover?
Posters, Papers, and Promotional Materials
Promotional materials may be the most common type of memorabilia out there, but that doesn’t make them any less popular! Posters listing specific tour dates, set lists from unique venues, vintage flyers, and other authentic papers from touring and classic album production are quickly bought by collectors of all experience levels. When they’re kept in pristine condition and properly displayed, they can only grow in value.
Where to Find the Best Music Memorabilia
Whether you’re interested in collecting vinyl records or electric guitars, you’re in luck—there are plenty of places to look! Consider shopping for your next find at:
Online auctions
Thrift stores
Flea markets
Yard sales
From classic albums you can play on your vinyl record player to rare posters perfect for decorating your home office, there’s a type of music memorabilia for every collector. So, what are you waiting for? Stop by America’s Antique Mall and start your search for collectibles that inspire your desire to rock on!