What's Happening?
Atlantic Records has partnered with Jorge Rivera-Herrans to release EPIC: The Musical on vinyl for the first time. The release includes a limited-edition nine-vinyl EP holographic mega box set, available from September 10 to September 14. Rivera-Herrans began writing the musical, a retelling of Homer's The Odyssey, in 2019 while at the University of Notre Dame. The project gained popularity through social media, leading to the release of several sagas, with the final saga released last December. The musical has achieved significant success, with multiple sagas charting on Billboard's Cast Albums and Compilation Albums charts, and songs reaching the top 10 on Spotify's Top Songs Debut USA chart.
Why It's Important?
The release of EPIC: The Musical on vinyl marks a significant milestone in the music industry, showcasing the growing trend of digital projects transitioning to physical formats. This move by Atlantic Records highlights the potential for innovative fan experiences and the expansion of musical projects into multi-dimensional universes. The success of EPIC, with over 3 billion global streams, demonstrates the demand for unique storytelling in music and the ability of social media to propel creative projects to global recognition. This partnership could inspire other artists to explore similar avenues, potentially reshaping the landscape of musical production and distribution.
What's Next?
Atlantic Records plans to offer additional configurations beyond the mega box set, including a 3-CD complete series box set and individual vinyl pressings of the first three chapters. A custom storage box for all nine saga LPs will also be available. The release will include new animatics, enhancing the visual experience for fans. Rivera-Herrans continues to collaborate with Atlantic Records, aiming to create groundbreaking fan experiences. The ongoing success of EPIC may lead to further expansions and adaptations, potentially influencing future musical projects and collaborations within the industry.
Beyond the Headlines
The release of EPIC: The Musical on vinyl not only provides fans with a tangible connection to the music but also reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing physical media in an increasingly digital world. This development underscores the importance of artistic collaboration and innovation in the music industry, as well as the role of social media in shaping modern storytelling. The project's success may encourage other creators to explore unconventional formats and distribution methods, fostering a diverse and dynamic musical landscape.
