45 rpm jukebox singles

45 rpm records were the standard format for jukeboxes from the 1950s to the 1980s, revolutionizing music consumption with their practicality and durability.

About this subject

The 45 rpm record, also known as a single, is a 7-inch vinyl format that spins at 45 revolutions per minute. Its large center hole was specifically designed for automatic stacking in jukebox mechanisms, allowing quick song changes. Each side holds about three to five minutes of audio, ideal for pop songs. The durability of vinyl and resistance to scratches made these records perfect for heavy use in commercial venues.

Introduced by RCA Victor in 1949 as a direct competitor to Columbia's 33 1/3 rpm LP, the 45 rpm format quickly captured the jukebox market. Manufacturers such as Wurlitzer, Seeburg, and Rock-Ola adapted their machines to play only singles, prompting record labels to release more compact discs. Until the 1980s, mechanical jukeboxes were ubiquitous in diners, bars, and record stores, and the 45 rpm single was the primary way to discover new hits.

Culturally, the 45 rpm record shaped post-war music consumption. Artists like Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Aretha Franklin built careers on hit singles. The A-side/B-side system encouraged label creativity, often placing an experimental track or future hit on the flip side. The simple cardboard sleeve and colorful label in the center became visual icons of the era.

With the advent of cassettes and CDs, jukeboxes and 45 rpm records declined sharply. However, the format is experiencing a revival among collectors and vinyl enthusiasts. The lo-fi aesthetic of a disposable camera photograph evokes this nostalgia, harkening back to the golden decades of jukeboxes. Today, original 45 rpm singles are collector's items, prized for their rarity and characteristic analog sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the size of a 45 rpm record?

The record is 7 inches (about 17.8 cm) in diameter, with a center hole of 1.5 inches (about 3.8 cm).

Why do 45 rpm records have a large hole?

The large hole was standardized to fit the automatic change mechanism of jukeboxes, allowing multiple records to be stacked and played sequentially.

What is the difference between a 45 rpm single and an LP?

An LP (Long Play) is 12 inches, spins at 33 1/3 rpm, and holds up to 30 minutes per side. A 45 rpm single is smaller, plays faster, and contains only one or two songs per side.