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Nostalgia and novelty behind the comeback of the cassette tape

One of the last audio cassette companies in the world says business is booming thanks to nostalgia and young people getting interested in tapes.

Cassette company says young people are rediscovering tapes

Amanda Marcotte · CBC News ·
The Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack was just one of the things that got people interested in cassette tapes again, according to Steve Stepp, president of the National Audio Company. (Marvel)

Just like vinyl made a comeback, it turns out some music lovers are getting nostalgic for cassette tapes. An audio cassette company says business is booming.

The National Audio Company in Springfield, Missouri is making more audio cassette tapes than it ever has before.

"What's kept us in business is stubbornness and stupidity," president Steve Stepp told CBC Saskatchewan's Blue Sky.

Stepp said they are on track to make 12 to 13 million audio cassettes this year. Last year, they made the popular Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack for Disney. But the resurgence started about six years ago.

He said cassette tapes are a novelty for those under 35, who are used to digital music.

For those who remember cassettes, it's the nostalgia of holding a cassette in your hands.

Saskatchewan musician Zachary Lucky released his album Saskatchewan on cassette tape.

His latest album, Zachary Lucky sings Copper Kettle and Dublin Blues, has just 300 recordings on vinyl.

"I think things like cassettes and vinyl are a little more tangible and little bit more personal," he told CBC. "There's this archaic way of experiencing music."

On Friday, listeners shared a bit of cassette tape nostalgia on twitter with @BlueSkyCBC.

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