Celebrate 45 Day with Rock-Ola Jukeboxes
May 4th is 45 Day, a celebration of the 7-inch vinyl that transformed the way the world listened to music and when it comes to 45s and jukeboxes, no name is more iconic than Rock-Ola.
Founded in 1927, Rock-Ola is the only authentic American jukebox manufacturer still building machines in the USA. From classic diners to modern homes, Rock-Ola has been at the heart of music and nostalgia for nearly a century.
Vinyl records, those circular discs of nostalgia, have been the heartbeat of the music industry for decades. Even in our digital age, the resurgence of vinyl has proven its timeless appeal. From the gentle crackle before a song begins to the artwork that graces each sleeve, vinyl offers a tactile, immersive experience. It’s no surprise that vinyl collecting has become a passionate pursuit for music lovers of all ages.
At Rock-Ola, we have a particularly strong bond with a certain format. The 45 RPM record.
The 7" 45 RPM record was introduced by RCA Victor in 1949 as a smaller, more durable, and more affordable format than the older 78s. Designed for single tracks, the 45 quickly became the standard for hit songs through the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s.
With clearer sound, consistent sizing, and lower surface noise, the 45 became the perfect match for jukeboxes and a cultural icon in its own right.
Introduced by RCA Victor in 1949, the 7" 45 RPM record was both a technical innovation and a cultural icon, perfectly suited to the jukebox era. Compact, durable, and ideal for hit singles, the 45 became the lifeblood of every Rock-Ola jukebox spinning in diners, bars and dance halls across America.
Unlike the 33 RPM LP, which told a longer story over multiple tracks, the 45 offered instant gratification. One song per side, easily swappable, perfect for a night out. Their wide grooves delivered excellent sound clarity, especially when amplified through the booming speakers of a classic Rock-Ola machine.
As the jukebox grew in popularity through the 1950s and beyond, so did the 45, both a part of the soundtrack of the American experience.
Why The 45 RPM Still Matters
Music formats may have changed, but the 45 isn’t a nostalgic relic. It’s a tangible music format with warmth, personality and punch! At Rock-Ola, we’ve never stopped believing in it.
In today’s vinyl revival, 45s remain a favourite for collectors and music lovers, bringing a unique level of charm when played on a Rock-Ola jukebox. Many of our customers tell us that nothing compares to the click of the carousel, the whirr of the mechanism, and the moment the stylus hits a classic 45.
In a world of endless digital playlists and background noise, vinyl offers something refreshingly real. It’s tactile and intentional. Dropping the needle on a 45 is a ritual, a moment of connection that streaming simply can’t replicate. That’s why more and more music lovers are turning (or returning) to vinyl as an antidote to the passive scroll of streaming culture.
Explore Our Vinyl 45 Record Packs
Need 45s for your jukebox? Our Vinyl 45 Record Packs are expertly chosen by genre and era by our in-house musicologist.
Each pack includes 10 dinked 45s, ready to play straight out of the sleeve with hand-typed labels included.
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Built in California. Loved Worldwide.
Our Vinyl 45 Bubbler Jukebox is handcrafted in our California factory, just as it’s always been. It's where tradition meets innovation, with Bluetooth connectivity, upgraded sound systems, and that unmistakable retro glow.
Whether you’re looking for classic Americana or bringing a jukebox to your game room, there’s nothing quite like Rock-Ola.
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The Vinyl Revival Lives On
From indie artists to legendary bands, the 45 RPM format continues to inspire. Jack White, Neil Young, The Flaming Lips and many more have all released music on 7-inch vinyl in recent times.
On 45 Day, we celebrate the legacy of these records and the jukeboxes that continue to make them unforgettable.
Are you ready to rediscover the magic of vinyl?
