Table of Contents
Do not index
Do not index
About This Label
Founded in 1889 in Washington, D.C., as the Columbia Phonograph Company, Columbia Records holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving brand in the recorded sound business. It began by manufacturing phonograph cylinders and quickly evolved to become one of the early pioneers in disc records.
Columbia made a transformative impact on music technology when it introduced the microgroove LP record in 1948. This invention revolutionized the music industry, enabling longer playback times and enhanced audio fidelity—an innovation that helped define modern album listening.
Over the decades, Columbia has been at the forefront of multiple music eras. It embraced the rise of jazz, Broadway soundtracks, folk, and rock. Legendary artists like Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, and many others found their voice and audience through Columbia. The label was also behind many technological firsts, including early stereo recordings and epic studio productions.
Now owned by Sony Music Entertainment, Columbia remains a flagship label in the global music market—continuing its legacy by supporting contemporary superstars while preserving its rich catalog and historical influence.
Written by
