Ongoing History of New Music

Ongoing History Daily: Why do the RHCP love such long albums?

When the compact disc first arrived in 1982, it could store 75 minutes of music. Some discs could stretch that to about 80 minutes, but 75 was considered to be the maximum.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers said “Challenge accepted!” and have often filled CDs to the brim for the last 30 years, starting with the Blood Sugar Sex Magick album, which clocked in at 73 minutes and 42 seconds. The Road Trippin’ Through Time greatest hits collection pushed capacity to 78 minutes and 9 seconds.

I’m Beside You in 2013 ran for 72 minutes and 51 seconds. When Unlimited Love showed up in April 2022, it came with 73 minutes and 4 seconds’ worth of music. And Return of the Dream Canteen doesn’t end until 75 minutes and 4 seconds have gone by.

Less is more? Not according to the Chili Peppers.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 39696 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

One thought on “Ongoing History Daily: Why do the RHCP love such long albums?

  • Best band of all time.

    Reply

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