Recorded Sound Archives

Welcome to Florida Atlantic University, new Owls! As you embark on this exciting journey, you’re not just joining a university but becoming part of a vibrant community with endless opportunities for growth, exploration, and discovery. From the bustling campus life to the serene beaches nearby, FAU offers a unique environment where academic excellence meets a supportive, diverse community.

As you settle in and navigate your new life here, you’ll find FAU full of hidden gems—one in the Wimberly Library on the Boca Raton campus. I’m talking about the Recorded Sound Archives (RSA), a part of FAU Libraries that you might not have heard of yet but one that you’ll want to know about. Read More About This…

Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? On this particular day, we’re celebrating the birthday of the legendary Louis Armstrong, who, at 63, pulled off one of the most unexpected chart-topping victories in pop music history. His achievement proves that age is just a number—and a golden trumpet!

Picture this: It’s late 1963, and Armstrong, along with his All Stars, is recording the title track for an upcoming Broadway musical called “Hello, Dolly!” Despite his humble expectations for the tune, he was about to blow the roof off the charts. Read More About This…

The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence, and what better way to do that than by immersing yourself in the music that has defined America’s spirit and patriotism over the years? This year, gather your family and friends and take a nostalgic journey through some classic songs from the early 1900s.

Celebrate the Fourth of July by listening to these classics

Here are seven timeless pieces that will make your Independence Day celebration extra special: Read More About This…

Delve into the enduring melodies of Passover traditions. As Passover approaches, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. It’s a time for reflection, celebration, and the joyous sharing of traditions with loved ones. At the Recorded Sound Archives at FAU Libraries, we invite you to embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Passover melodies. Moreover, explore our extensive melodies of Passover collection of vintage recordings.

Our archives hold hauntingly beautiful tunes of yesteryear. They also feature lively renditions of classic Passover songs. Whether you seek the soul-stirring sounds of a cantor’s prayer or the cheerful melodies of a family Seder, we have something for you. Read More About This…

As we bid farewell to 2023, our journey through the sonic corridors of history has been nothing short of extraordinary. Within the hallowed halls of the sound archive, our dedicated staff has meticulously curated and digitized an array of auditory treasures, preserving the essence of bygone eras. Join us in celebrating the best of 2023 as we unveil the staff’s top digitization picks from the sound archive.

The Recorded Sound Archives digitized 271 albums and 3,159 songs in the preceding year. These digital assets were made accessible to individuals in more than 116 countries, garnering a remarkable 191,149 hits from a global audience. Read More About This…