NOW Music

NOW Music, known formally as Now That’s What I Call Music!, is a series of various artists compilation albums that began in the United Kingdom and Ireland in 1983. It was initiated by Virgin Records, EMI, and PolyGram (now part of Universal Music Group). The concept was to curate a collection of the biggest hits of a specific period, typically featuring tracks from various genres and artists. This approach created a convenient package for music lovers who wanted a snapshot of the most popular songs without having to purchase multiple albums from different artists.

Origins and Development: The first NOW album, Now That’s What I Call Music!, was released on 28 November 1983. It featured a mix of chart-topping hits from artists like Phil Collins, Duran Duran, and Culture Club. The success of the inaugural album led to the series becoming a regular release, typically issued every three to four months. This model was quickly adopted in other countries, including the United States, where the series launched in 1998.

Impact and Popularity: The NOW Music series has been incredibly successful, with numerous volumes achieving multi-platinum status. It has become a staple in the music industry, known for its ability to capture the zeitgeist of contemporary music at the time of each release. The albums are popular not only for their comprehensive track listings, but also for their role in documenting the evolving landscape of popular music.

Market Adaptation: Over the years, the series has adapted to changes in the music industry and consumer behaviour. With the rise of digital music and streaming services, NOW Music has expanded its offerings to include digital downloads and streaming playlists, ensuring it remains relevant in the digital age. The series also includes special editions, such as Christmas collections, greatest hits compilations, and genre-specific albums.

Global Reach: The success of NOW Music in the UK and the US has led to the creation of localized versions of the series in various countries around the world, including Canada, South Africa, and numerous European and Asian markets. Each regional version typically includes hits that were particularly popular in those countries, making NOW Music a truly global phenomenon.

Criticism and Controversy: While NOW Music is widely popular, it has faced criticism over the years. Some critics argue that the compilations can be overly commercial, focusing on mainstream hits at the expense of more diverse or indie music scenes. There have also been occasional legal disputes over licencing and royalties, as the series involves negotiating with numerous record labels and artists for the rights to include their songs.

Legacy and Influence: NOW Music has left an indelible mark on the music industry. It has influenced how music is marketed and consumed, demonstrating the enduring appeal of compilation albums in an era increasingly dominated by digital playlists. The series has also provided a platform for new and emerging artists to gain exposure alongside established stars.

In summary, NOW Music stands out as one of the most successful and enduring compilation series in music history. Its ability to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences has ensured its continued relevance. By curating the biggest hits of each era, NOW Music has become a cultural touchstone, providing listeners with a nostalgic and comprehensive overview of contemporary music trends.