This morning, the Library of Congress announced the newest 25 additions to its National Recorded Sound Registry. Marking its 17th year this year, the National Recording Registry which honors all types of recorded sound–from music to spoken word to radio broadcasts—as long as the recordings have been historically, culturally or aesthetically significant. The latest 25 takes the total number of recordings on the Registry to 525.
Selections are made by the Librarian of Congress with input from the Library’s National Recorded Sound Preservation Board and after reviewing nominations from the public.
This year’s selections include works by Jay-Z, Cyndi Lauper, Lefty Frizzell, Nina Simone, Neil Diamond, Stan Freberg, Cab Calloway and others and range in dates from 1901 to 2001.
Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint” will be preserved for future generations, as well asthe original 1968 musical “Hair,” Neil Diamond’s 1969 single “Sweet Caroline;” Ritchie Valens’ 1958 hit, “La Bamba;” disco singer Sylvester’s 1978 single, “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real);” Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September;” Cyndi Lauper’s 1983 debut solo album,“She’s So Unusual;” Curtis Mayfield’s 1972 “Super Fly” soundtrack;” and educational children’s program “Schoolhouse Rock!”
