The evolution of music recording technologies in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Music recording technology has undergone a paradigm shift in the Zimbabwean recording industry. There has been a transition from the use of analogue to digital recording technology in the country. The study borrows the Technological Determinism theory to explore the evolution from analogue to digital of the recording industry. Analogue technology was used from 1956 to the 1990s, and songs were recorded on the reel, and stored on vinyl discs. The compact disc (CD) storage was introduced from which CD files began to be distributed to consumers as digital copies by recording studios. Recording studios in Zimbabwe have embraced digital technology as music is created, and distributed, in the digital realm. The researchers deployed a qualitative methodology to purposively gather data from record producers, studio owners, and musicians, to analyse changes in the Zimbabwe recording industry. Technological complexity, sophistication dexterity, innovativeness and knowledgeability of producers now determine the quality of music productions. Thus, the research explores the shifting of recording processes from analogue to digital in Zimbabwean studios. Further, the study reveals that technological developments directly impact the modus operandi and determine the relevance, and business viability, of the Zimbabwean mu- sic recording-scape. Further research can accrue benefits to the recording industry particularly in the use of digital software packages.