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Vinyl 2016

“He didn't see the future. He heard it.”

★ 7.0/10 · 249 votes TV-MA Drama 1 seasons · 10 eps Canceled
Where to watch: Google Play Movies
Quick answer

What is Vinyl?

Vinyl is a television series that premiered in 2016. The program is set in 1970s New York City and focuses on the professional and personal life of a record executive named Richie Finestra.

Type
TV series
Year
2016
Status
Canceled
Episodes
10
Runtime
60 minutes
First aired
Feb 14, 2016
Last aired
Apr 17, 2016
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
HBO
Genres
Drama
Updated
Availability by region

Where to watch

Streaming availability data provided by JustWatch via TMDB. Availability changes by country and date; verify on the provider before subscribing or purchasing.

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How long to binge?

Estimate the schedule using 10 episodes and an average 60-minute runtime.

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Overview

Vinyl is a television series that premiered in 2016. The program is set in 1970s New York City and focuses on the professional and personal life of a record executive named Richie Finestra. As a jaded industry figure, Finestra attempts to resurrect his failing record label. The narrative follows his efforts to maintain his standing in the music business while simultaneously navigating a fractured personal life. Throughout the series, Finestra strives to keep his finger on the pulse of the city as it develops a new sound. The show explores the challenges of the music industry during this specific era. While the title shares its name with various commercial music products and retail categories, including online stores for physical media and record collections, the 2016 television production remains a distinct entity focused on the fictionalized experiences of its central character. The series depicts the intersection of the protagonist's career struggles and the evolving cultural landscape of the decade.

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Should you watch it?

“A burned-out music exec navigates the chaotic 1970s New York music scene.”

Reasons to watch
  • Vivid period recreation of 1970s New York
  • Strong central performance anchoring the chaotic energy
  • Captures the authentic grit of the music industry
Keep in mind
  • Pacing can feel uneven
  • Some storylines lack resolution

You're drawn to character studies set against vibrant cultural backdrops.

Contains mature themes and period-appropriate content including substance use and strong language.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 10 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →

Frequently asked questions

Is this show based on a true story?

The series is fictional but draws heavily from the real music scene of 1970s New York.

What genre of music is featured?

The show prominently features rock, punk, and emerging hip-hop from the early 1970s.

How many seasons are there?

The series ran for one season.

Is the main character likable?

Richie Finestra is deliberately written as a flawed and often unlikable protagonist.

Does it accurately portray the 1970s music industry?

The show aims for authenticity in depicting the excess and creativity of the era's music business.