Artist

Sir Robin Millar Speaks Out on Vinyl Production and Environmental Hypocrisy

Published December 5, 2023

Renowned music producer Sir Robin Millar has made his stance clear; he is calling for an end to the production of vinyl records to benefit the environment. Millar, whose career skyrocketed with timeless hits from artists like Sade and Everything But the Girl, has expressed his concerns over what he sees as the music industry's hypocrisy when it comes to climate change.

Confronting the Vinyl Revival

Despite having built a legacy in the music scene with vinyl records, Millar believes it's time for the music industry to take accountability for its role in environmental damage. Vinyl records and CDs are often produced with materials that harm the environment. As these physical mediums see a resurgence, they continue to contribute to the problem. Not only are they manufactured using non-sustainable resources, but also shipped worldwide, increasing their carbon footprint significantly.

Championing Digital Music and Disability Inclusion

Millar, who has been blind since 1985, is not just a celebrated figure in music but also an active disability campaigner. He pushes for higher inclusion of disabled individuals in the workforce, highlighting that digital advancements now provide quality that rivals traditional formats like vinyl, without the environmental toll. He suggests artists can take their tours online, minimizing the environmental impact of global concerts.

Advocacy Beyond the Music

Outside of his green advocacy, Millar's work extends to fighting for disability rights in his role as the chair of the charity Scope. He has taken significant strides in his various endeavors, such as Blue Raincoat Music, to prioritize these social causes, despite them sometimes clashing with profit-driven stakeholders.

A Life of Music and Impact

At 71, Millar continues to be a force in the music industry. From his teens to earning 44 No 1 hits and a career spanning several decades, his influence has been pervasive and enduring. His drive to enact positive change remains undiminished, using his accomplishments as a platform to push for solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing society and the planet today.

Legacy and Future

Millar's work with artists from various genres has secured his place in music history. He continues to stay active in the industry through his company Blue Raincoat Music, where he keeps an innovative spirit alive by navigating the complexities of the ever-changing music landscape. As he addresses environmental concerns, the music mogul also emphasizes the profitability of inclusion, urging businesses to embrace diversity for both social and economic benefits.

vinyl, environment, hypocrisy