25 Years in Music: An Interview with Discogs Founder Kevin Lewandowski
The creator of the world's largest music database reflects on two decades of growth, his home automation projects, and the enduring appeal of vinyl.
A Musical Archive That Became a Cult Classic
For 25 years, Discogs has been an inseparable part of the music world. Originally created for vinyl enthusiasts, the platform has evolved into the world's most comprehensive music database and marketplace. Kevin Lewandowski, the site’s founder, recently reflected on the journey Discogs has taken—from its origins as a hybrid of eBay, Reddit, and IMDb to the global community it is today, where audiophiles search for and trade rare recordings.
In an era dominated by digital algorithms, people are increasingly returning to physical media, further cementing the importance of Discogs. Lewandowski notes that for him, the platform is not just a business, but a repository where musical history and details are preserved—ranging from various album editions to rare pressings.
Daily Routine and Technological Interests
During the interview, Lewandowski shared his daily habits. His workflow is closely tied to coffee and his AeroPress, which he uses several times a day. Regarding technology, Lewandowski is not merely a consumer but a "tinkerer." He built his own home automation system using Home Assistant, which controls his garage doors and exterior lighting.
His perspective on video games is also notable. He highlighted the 2000s rhythm game Rez as particularly impressive, noting how it allows players to control the music. Lewandowski did not rule out the possibility of creating a game with a similar concept in the future, though for now, it remains only an idea.
The Power of Physical Media
Despite his career in the tech sector, Kevin remains loyal to vinyl records. He says he still enjoys visiting music shops to discover physical records. He recently purchased several new records at Mint Gallery in Portland, proving that even for a digital pioneer of the music industry, physical media remains the best way to experience art.
As for his work style, when facing a creative block, Lewandowski simply changes his environment. He believes it is sometimes necessary to step away from the desk and move to a new space, such as a cafe, to broaden his thinking. For the founder of Discogs, who has dedicated 25 years to his work, music and technology are inseparable, a sentiment clearly reflected in his daily life and projects.