There’s something about vinyl that just draws you in – whether it’s the rich sound, stunning artwork, or the way it connects you to the culture of its time. Christina, the vinyl lover behind @christinavinylphile on Instagram, perfectly captures that connection. What started as a childhood fascination with The Beatles’ records has grown into a deep passion for collecting and sharing music. Through her carefully curated posts and the #MellowGoldMondays hashtag, Christina has built a community of vinyl fans from all over the world. Read on to hear more about her journey into the world of vinyl, and what keeps her hooked.
How did you get into record collecting?
My parents had records when I was growing up and I had a few as well. Mostly Disney records and some Sesame Street – typical early 80s childhood. Then when I was 12, my neighbours parents had a beautiful well cared for collection. At that time, I was totally obsessed with The Beatles and they had every record in perfect condition.
“To hear the music as well have art to pour over while you listen was too cool.”
What is it about vinyl that you love most?
I spent hours and hours looking at all of the Beatles’ records, inserts and artwork. Listening to and memorising every word. I was hooked. To hear the music as well have art to pour over while you listen was too cool. I’d say that is what I love most.
How long have you been sharing your collection on Instagram, and what made you start?
My first record post was January 2023. I had decided Instagram was the perfect space to connect with other music enthusiasts and share my love for music.
What’s your favourite thing about the vinyl community there?
My favourite thing about the Instagram vinyl community is how welcoming it is and the amount of people I meet from all over the world.
Tell us more about #MellowGoldMondays
#MellowGoldMondays was born when I had listened to an old podcast with Zooey Deschanel and she was talking about her favourite music genre, mellow gold. She went on to talk about her three-record set from the 70s called Mellow Gold, which has all the gems on it. I then realized I also love the genre, and had that same record set as well. I was then inspired to start the hashtag and find other fans.
What’s the most prized record in your collection?
My most prized record is possibly my original pressing of Cake, Fashion Nugget or my signed Alanis Morissette, Jagged Little Pill.
What’s your go-to crate digging spot?
My heart will always belong to my old record store in Eugene, Oregon called the House of Records but now I live in Arkansas and there are some fantastic spots here. I love Mojo’s Records in Eureka Springs, Arkansas as well as Block Street Records in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Follow Christina on Instagram, and join her #MellowGoldMondays challenge – you guessed it – every Monday.
