As we approach Memorial Day, we reflect on the power of music to bring people together, lift spirits, and inspire a sense of unity. The Recorded Sound Archives is home to a treasure trove of patriotic recordings pressed onto fragile 78rpm shellac discs—reminders of how music once echoed through living rooms, barracks, and dance halls during America’s most trying times.

These vintage recordings aren’t just music—they’re sonic time capsules that capture the resilience, pride, and hope of generations past. Read More About This…

Celebrating Irving Berlin’s Birthday with “Ragtime Violin” — In English, Yiddish, and on Piano Roll!

This May 11th, we’re celebrating the birthday of one of America’s most iconic songwriters: Irving Berlin (1888–1989). Born in Imperial Russia and raised on the streets of New York City’s Lower East Side, Berlin went on to write more than 1,500 songs, many of which are considered standards of the American songbook. From White Christmas to God Bless America, his music has left an enduring legacy—but long before those classics, Berlin had a knack for catchy tunes that captured the spirit of their time. Read More About This…

We’re excited to share with you our latest collection of vintage Florida recordings! If you’re looking for a way to transport yourself to the sunshine state this summer, this is the perfect opportunity. With over 13 recordings featuring the state itself and various cities within it. You’re sure to find something that captures the essence of Florida. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, these recordings will allow you to experience Florida in a whole new way. So, sit back, relax, and let the sounds of Florida transport you to a time gone by. Close your eyes and let your imagination take you on a journey through the Sunshine State. Imagine if you will the gentle rustling of palm trees, the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore, and the chirping of tropical birds to transport you from your current location to Florida!

Relive the Golden Age of Florida Tourism Through Vintage Recordings

Here are just a few of our favorite recordings from this collection. Read More About This…

As part of Banned Books week here at FAU Libraries, we wanted to share Party Records. Learn more about these records and why they were made in the video below.

Here at the Recorded Sound Archives , we have one Party record which you can listen to on our website to get a taste of what was deemed obscene at the time. Read More About This…

Over the years, whether it was a program about the war or just reminding people to remember and honor our many brave, patriotic fallen heroes, Stars and Stripes has always been playing in the background. Here at the Recorded Sound Archives we wanted to share a Piano Roll of the famous Stars and Stripes Forever March.

Did you also know that the Stars and Stripes Forever March by John Philip Sousa was RCA Victor’s billionth record played by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the leadership of Serge Koussevitzky? Read More About This…