How the Now That's What I Call Music! series tracked changing audio technology

Cultures · Published 10 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Since 1983, the Now That's What I Call Music! UK series has served as a mirror for evolving music consumption. From early vinyl and magnetic cassettes to the rise of CDs, MiniDiscs, and DVDs, the series has constantly adapted its physical format to match the shifting habits of the listening public.

UK series began in 1983, initially releasing its compilations exclusively on vinyl, magnetic audio cassettes, and laserdisc. As technology progressed, the series pivoted to accommodate new formats. The transition to compact discs began in 1984 with the fourth volume, which was issued as a single-CD. By November 1987, the series introduced double-CD releases, while phonograph record production eventually ceased with the 35th volume in November 1996.

The series also experimented with niche formats. MiniDiscs were included between July 1999 and April 2001, spanning volumes 43 through 48. Video formats saw a similar evolution; while the first 18 volumes and volume 20 were released on VHS, the series transitioned to DVD between 2001 and 2007. In 2006, the series even utilized the short-lived UMD format. Magnetic audio cassettes remained a staple for decades but were finally retired with the 64th volume in July 2006.

In recent years, the series has looked backward through a re-issue program. Starting in 2018, the label began re-compiling original volumes from 100 editions prior, releasing them as double-CD sets. These modern re-issues often face complex licensing hurdles, sometimes necessitating the omission of specific tracks or the use of alternative mixes. While some volumes, such as the fourth and eighth, were re-issued with their full original tracklists, others like the 17th and 18th volumes required the removal of multiple songs due to these persistent licensing constraints.

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