Random Thoughts on Friday: Music Clubs

The useful part

I heard on the radio that Columbia House was finally going out of business. If you told me they folded 10 years ago, or 20 years ago, I would have believed you. Most people remember their deal- you could get something like a dozen albums, tapes or CDs for a penny, but you had to agree to buy a few more later at regular price plus shipping.

How it works

• Most people got the initial batch of albums then quickly forgot about the club and ignored future mailings.
• I remember one kid in middle school saying that he had some albums sent to the address of a vacant home on his street, which he claimed when they were delivered.
• I joined these clubs several times and completed my membership honestly each time.
• Even for those of us who have always loved physical media, there was a point where this stopped being a good deal.
• Of course, the big hit albums that everyone had were plentiful, and they were marked down quickly.

What to take from it

For several years, rarely did I pay more than a couple of bucks for a standard CD. I still scavenge used book and music stores for CDs, but I have most of what I want.

Details worth keeping

I honestly wasn't aware that they were still in business. Even if you were honest, it was a great deal back in the day. Also, if you referred a friend, you got an extra 4 or so albums.