On Jan. 27 Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey (Lay-vay) released a limited edition Valentine’s Day-themed vinyl. The ‘Chocolate Strawberry’ is a heart-shaped vinyl featuring a live recording of the hit song “Valentine” from Iceland’s Harpa Concert Hall. The song is featured on the album “Everything I Know About Love” written and recorded by Laufey.
The GRAMMY-winning Icelandic-Chinese musician creates music with an interesting blend of jazz and pop. She has a large fan base consisting of Teens and Young Adults who have an interest in collecting items such as limited-edition vinyls. On Spotify, she has 15.4M monthly listeners and is also popular on Instagram with 5.6M followers. Laufey is known for posting teasers for her next album along with different events she was invited to attend.
“She was my top artist for 2024, I love her music,” Cecelia Corro said.
Within Laufey’s fanbase are those interested in collectible items, including limited edition vinyls. Laufey has released limited edition vinyls before, such as Bewitched – Orange Pumpkin Edition, Bewitched – Stormy Edition, A Very Laufey Holiday, and Valentine – Red Heart Editon.
“I have many friends who listen to Laufey and it would be a good addition to their collection,” senior MJ McShea said.
Laufey is known for performing many different love songs which explains why she wanted to take advantage of the holiday of love and send out some limited edition vinyls. Along with the fact that she wrote a song called “Valentine,” it quickly gained popularity.
“She has songs primarily about love, but also some that are just so real and raw that I think many people relate to” Corro said.
At State High, many students are entranced by this holiday vinyl, expressing their appreciation. Other students were less interested but believed the unique design would make a good gift.
“I would buy the vinyl as a gift because it’s really cute and I’ve never seen anything like it,” senior Claire Heaney said.
Due to Laufey’s large fanbase, some students found it difficult to hunt down copies of the vinyl. With more artists releasing limited edition versions of their songs, scalpers have become a problem. People who resell items such as concert tickets and merchandise, also known as scalpers, have a negative impact on not just the purchasers but also the artists who are trying to make a profit off these items.
“Sometimes it’s frustrating, especially with scalpers, but as a business move it’s super valid, and for holidays and anniversaries I think it’s completely reasonable,” Corro said.
Items like this vinyl can be seen as a capitalistic approach towards holidays, targeted towards younger generations and their love for aesthetically pleasing items. As other artists release limited edition or themed items, people should stay aware of their intentions when purchasing these items for themselves or as a gift.
