This week, I’m talking to vinyl enthusiast Marie, who has been sharing her record collection on Instagram as blackcat.vinyl since 2019. Also a hobby botanist, Marie’s feed is a real feast for the eyes, filled with exclusive pressings and beautifully cared-for plants, all set against the backdrop of her cosy, bohemian home.
In our conversation, Marie shares how a desire for connection led her to start documenting her collection online, and how Instagram’s vinyl community has become her go-to place to discover new music, swap recommendations, and converse with fellow collectors around the world.
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m Marie, the person behind @blackcat.vinyl, a vinyl and plant collector from Germany, concert lover with a passion for discovering unique records. My collection moves across different genres, my biggest obsession is collecting soundtrack records.
What sparked your interest in collecting records?
I started collecting vinyl records by buying them at concerts and getting them signed there. It’s such a special way to remember the show and keep the memory alive. I‘m also in love with some of the cover artworks of some records. Botanical cover artworks always catch my eye.
What is it about vinyl that you love most?
What I love most about vinyl is that it’s more than just the music itself. It’s the whole experience – the artwork, the cover design, the lyrics, and the feeling of holding a physical record in your hands. Every vinyl has its own character and story, which makes listening to music feel much more personal and special for me.
When did you start sharing your collection on Instagram, and what inspired you to put it out there?
I think I started sharing my collection on Instagram early 2019 because I wanted to connect with people who appreciate music and vinyl culture in the same way I do. I also wanted to discover more music while connecting with the vinyl community. It really became a way to discover new artists, exchange recommendations, get new updates on concerts and interact with an amazing community of collectors around the world.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the vinyl community?
It’s inspiring to see how personal every collection is and how music can bring together people from completely different backgrounds. Vinyl collectors are so kind and always excited to talk about music, recommend records, and celebrate discoveries together.
Do you have a favourite spot for crate digging, or a memorable find from one of those hunts?
Some of the best finds happen in small independent record shops especially when I‘m on vacation. One of my most memorable moments was finding a rare record of my favourite band completely by accident – that feeling of surprise is what makes crate digging so addictive.
Finally, what’s a record you think everyone should own, or at least hear once in their life, and why?
One record everyone should hear at least once is Omnium Gatherum by the band King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard. It’s my favourite band and the album feels timeless, powerful, and best experienced from start to finish on vinyl.
Check out Marie’s gorgeous record collection over on Instagram.
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