Fifty Quid Bloke

Fifty-Quid Bloke

A term made known by Nick Hepworth, editor of 'The Word' magazine used to describe a customer type who typically spends his Friday afternoons buying albums in HMV. For the first time, people over 35 are buying more albums than young people. 

This is because of the way the world is changing, as magazines are being replaced by the internet and digital versions. Young people no longer find interest in buying records and albums as they can obtain music easily through technology. Magazines are now more popular among older people who find familiarity in purchasing physical items and those who are deeply interested in their music prefer to have something they can own.  The Fifty-Quid Bloke could be dying out, as 'The Word' magazine was cancelled, and many entertainment shops on the high street have also been shut down. HMV itself almost joined them but was rescued at the last minute and it fortunately still around.

The patterns of music consumption have changed. Spotify, iTunes and other ways of consuming music have had an effect on the industry. 

The internet is mostly used by young people, and they can find any information about music they'd need. And it's usual free, whereas magazines cost money.

Personally, I think that the Fifty-Quid Bloke may one day become extinct, however similar groups of people are being formed in our society, especially amongst the young people. A small percentage of teens still enjoy connecting with their music on a higher level, buying albums, listening to old bands from the last century and owning vintage items including records and old retro posters. So while the one breed may be dying out, I think there will always be a group of people who can still fit the description of the Fifty-Quid Bloke, with a few differences of course.