Check out these new and used Tom Waits vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Tom Waits vinyl collection with the essential albums Closing Time, The Heart Of Saturday Night and Small Change. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from rock musicians.

Tom Waits: A Musical Alchemist

The Early Years and Formation of the Band

Tom Waits, born on December 7, 1949, in Pomona, California, is an iconic singer-songwriter, composer, and actor known for his distinctive voice, eclectic musical style, and lyrical storytelling. Waits’ musical journey has been a captivating one, evolving from his early days as a folk-influenced singer to a gravel-voiced, experimental maestro. The formation of the band marked a pivotal moment in Waits’ career, amplifying the richness of his musical tapestry.

The Asylum Years: A Creative Explosion

Closing Time (1973)

Tom Waits’ debut album, Closing Time, released in 1973, showcased his talent as a storyteller and balladeer. The album, produced by Jerry Yester, unveiled Waits’ early folk and jazz influences. Songs like “Ol’ ’55” and “Martha” set the tone for the soulful, melancholic storytelling that would become a hallmark of Waits’ career.

The Heart of Saturday Night (1974)

Following the success of his debut, Waits released The Heart of Saturday Night in 1974. The album delved deeper into jazz and blues, capturing the essence of urban life. Tracks like “New Coat of Paint” and the title track highlighted Waits’ ability to create vivid, atmospheric narratives.

Nighthawks at the Diner (1975)

In 1975, Waits took an unconventional approach with Nighthawks at the Diner, a live album that simulated a nightclub performance. The album featured spoken-word interludes and showcased Waits’ evolving stage persona. It marked a departure from traditional studio recordings and added a layer of raw authenticity to his discography.

The Experimental Phase: Swordfishtrombones and Rain Dogs

Swordfishtrombones (1983)

The early ’80s marked a significant shift in Waits’ musical style with the release of Swordfishtrombones. Produced by Waits himself, the album embraced avant-garde elements, incorporating unconventional instruments and experimental arrangements. Tracks like “16 Shells from a Thirty-Ought-Six” signaled a departure from his earlier sound, paving the way for a more adventurous sonic landscape.

Rain Dogs (1985)

Continuing the experimental journey, Rain Dogs further solidified Waits’ reputation as a musical innovator. The album blended influences from various genres, including rock, blues, and cabaret. Songs like “Downtown Train” and “Clap Hands” showcased Waits’ ability to create a collage of musical styles, offering listeners a truly immersive experience.

The Later Years: Mule Variations and Real Gone

Mule Variations (1999)

Mule Variations marked a return to a more accessible sound while retaining Waits’ signature experimentation. Released in 1999, the album won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Album. Tracks like “Hold On” and “Chocolate Jesus” demonstrated a perfect balance between Waits’ experimental instincts and his ability to craft soul-stirring melodies.

Real Gone (2004)

Released in 2004, Real Gone showcased Waits’ continued evolution. The album incorporated elements of blues, rock, and electronica, creating a gritty and modern sonic landscape. The use of unconventional instruments, beatboxing, and Waits’ growling vocals on tracks like “Hoist That Rag” exemplified his fearless approach to musical exploration.

Tom Waits’ Influence and Legacy

Tom Waits’ musical journey has left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing a diverse array of artists across genres. His experimental phase inspired musicians to push the boundaries of conventional sound, while his storytelling prowess set a benchmark for lyricists.

Similar Artists

1. Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen, like Waits, is renowned for his poetic lyrics and deep, gravelly voice. Both artists share a penchant for storytelling, creating songs that resonate with emotional depth and introspection.

2. Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds

Nick Cave’s dark and brooding style, akin to Waits’ later experimental phase, draws parallels between the two artists. Both have explored the fringes of various genres, creating a sound that is uniquely theirs.

3. Bob Dylan

As a fellow troubadour, Bob Dylan’s influence on Waits is evident in their shared roots in folk music. Both artists have navigated through different musical phases, continuously evolving their styles.

Bands Influenced by Tom Waits

1. The Black Keys

The blues-infused rock of The Black Keys reflects Waits’ ability to blend disparate genres seamlessly. The raw, unpolished sound of both artists resonates with a shared appreciation for authenticity.

2. Primus

The experimental and genre-defying nature of Primus’s music can be traced back to Waits’ influence. Both artists challenge the conventional norms of sound, creating a musical experience that defies categorization.

3. PJ Harvey

PJ Harvey’s eclectic musical style and lyrical depth bear traces of Waits’ influence. Her ability to seamlessly move between genres and experiment with different sounds echoes Waits’ fearless approach to music.

Tom Waits: An Ever-Evolving Artistic Force

Tom Waits’ musical journey is a testament to his artistic courage and willingness to embrace change. From the intimate ballads of Closing Time to the avant-garde landscapes of Swordfishtrombones and the eclectic fusion of Real Gone, Waits has consistently pushed the boundaries of musical expression.

As a storyteller, musician, and actor, Tom Waits remains a towering figure in the realm of artistic innovation. His influence on a diverse range of artists and his ability to evolve without losing his essence solidify his place in the pantheon of musical legends.

TOM WAITS Closing Time ASYLUM SD 5061 LP 1973 1st US Pressing EX Condition

$28.00  (2 bids) End Date: Thursday Dec-19-2024 10:19:38 EST Bid

Tom Waits - Closing Time - 50th Anniversary [New Vinyl LP] 180 Gram

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Tom Waits "Small Change" Original 1976 Vinyl! PROMO COPY

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Tom Waits - Small Change [New Vinyl LP]

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Tom Waits Anthology EX in SHRINK

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Tom Waits-Nighthawks at the Diner Asylum 7E-2008 1st Pressing (white label promo

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Bone Machine [LP], Tom Waits, New

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TOM WAITS "RAIN DOG" ISLAND 7 90299 1985 VG+

$9.99  (1 bid) End Date: Sunday Dec-22-2024 20:15:01 EST Bid

Tom Waits - The Early Years, Vol. 2 [New Vinyl LP]

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Tom Waits Heartattack and Vine Vinyl LP Asylum 6E-295 NM White Label Promo

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Tom Waits - Bad As Me (Vinyl LP) [SEAED/MINT]

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Tom Waits - Anthology Of Tom Waits - Promo LP - US 1985 Asylum -NM Vinyl

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Tom Waits - Black Rider [New Vinyl LP] 180 Gram

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Tom Waits Swordfishtrombones 1983 Island Vinyl

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Tom Waits - Bone Machine [New Vinyl LP] 180 Gram

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Tom Waits - Nighthawks At The Diner (remastered) [New Vinyl LP]

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Tom Waits - The Early Years, Vol. 1 [New Vinyl LP]

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Tom Waits Hang on Saint Christopher extended 12" (WL PROMO) (NM/EX)

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TOM WAITS - MULE VARIATIONS - 2XLP NEW/SEALED FREE SHIPPING

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Tom Waits: Nighthawks At The Diner Vinyl Record LP 1975 Asylum 7E-2008 VERY GOOD

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Ultimate Sinatra [2 LP]

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Ultimate Sinatra's 180-gram 2LP version brims with 24 stellar recordings representing Frank Sinatra's unparalleled, 6 decade-long recording career

Greatest Hits I [2 LP]

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Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories

Gold - Greatest Hits[2 LP]

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ABBA's Gold - Greatest Hits collection features 19 timeless hits such as "Dancing Queen," "Mamma Mia," "Take a Chance on Me," "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)" and more! This 2 LP set is pressed on 180-gram vinyl

SOUR[LP]

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Olivia Rodrigo's record-breaking debut album, SOUR, features the #1 hits, "drivers license," and "good 4 u," plus the singles "dej? vu," "traitor" and "brutal

Greatest Hits

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Vinyl LP repressing. Greatest Hits is a 1988 compilation album by British-American band Fleetwood Mac. It covers the period of the band's greatest commercial success, from the mid-1970s to the late 1980s. The track listing for the US release differs ... read more

Born To Die[LP]

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Born To Die [LP]

Back to Black [Vinyl]

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Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories

THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT[Ghosted White 2 LP]

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2 LP set on ghost white colored vinyl, featuring the bonus track, "The Manuscript

Kind Of Blue (Vinyl)

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The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

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Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB), Fully Manual, Hi-Fi, 3 Speed, Convert Vinyl to Digital, Anti-Skate and Variable Pitch Control Black

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Experience the high-fidelity audio of vinyl Direct-drive, DC servo motor with selectable 33/45/78 RPM speeds. Damped base construction for reduced low-frequency feedback coloration Fully manual operation featuring adjustable dynamic anti-skate contro... read more

Victrola Nostalgic 6-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player & Multimedia Center with Built-in Speakers - 3-Speed Turntable, CD & Cassette Player, FM Radio | Wireless Music Streaming | Mahogany

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6-in-1 ENTERTAINMENT CENTER – With vintage looks on the outside & modern features inside, listen your way; vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, AM/FM radio or stream music from your smartphone via Bluetooth or 3.5 mm Aux/headphone jack.Motor type : AC Moto... read more

1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable with Built-in Speakers, Vinyl Record Player with Magnetic Cartridge, Bluetooth Playback and Aux-in Functionality, Auto Off

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[Exquisite Appearance] Built from wood and metal materials with a unique sense of layering; The streamlined corner design is truly atmospheric and stylish(Note: long hold the start button to turn the power on, and press again to start) [All in 1] Thi... read more

Vinyl Record Player Turntable with Built-in Bluetooth Receiver & 2 Stereo Speakers, 3 Speed 3 Size Portable Retro Record Player for Entertainment and Home Decoration

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【Vintage Record Player】Bluetooth Input & AUX Audio input & RCA line-out & Headphone jack. 2 Built in stereo speakers,with Bluetooth wireless technology,elegantly listen to the music from your smart phone.Use Aux cable input to directly play the music... read more

1 by ONE Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth Connectivity, Built-in Phono Pre-amp, USB Digital Output Vinyl Stereo Record Player with Magnetic Cartridge, 33 or 45 RPM

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Bluetooth Connectivity: Pair with Bluetooth speakers or headphones for an amazing, wireless experience; Even better, no receiver needed Magnetic Cartridge Stylus: The diamond-tipped stylus cartridge is designed to produce rich sound and outstanding c... read more

Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable: Fully Automatic Wireless Vinyl Record Player with Bluetooth and USB Output Black

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EASY OPERATION: Effortlessly enjoy your favorite records with one-step auto start, stop and return.Power source: ‎Corded Electric TWO SPEEDS: 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm, with the 45 rpm adaptor stowed neatly in a slot beneath the deck HIGH QUALITY AUDIO: ... read more

Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT-BZ Wireless Turntable, Black/Bronze

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Fully automatic belt-drive turntable operation with two speeds: 33-1/3, 45 RPM High-fidelity audio with Bluetooth wireless technology J-shaped tonearm is engineered to minimize tracking errors Built-in switchable phono/line pre-amplifier Includes det... read more

Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player with Built-in Speakers | Upgraded Turntable Audio Sound| Includes Extra Stylus | Turquoise, Model Number: VSC-550BT-TQ

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THREE SPEED BELT-DRIVEN TURNTABLE - This 3-speed (33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm) suitcase record player features UPGRADED PREMIUM SOUND QUALITY and sits on sound isolating feet that prevent vibration. It is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office. TAKE ... read more