The Library of Congress has unveiled its latest selections for preservation in the National Recording Registry, highlighting a diverse array of audio works that resonate with cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. This year, 25 recordings have been chosen, adding to the registry’s esteemed collection, which now totals 675 titles.
Notable Inductees
Among the celebrated works are iconic hits from Celine Dion and Mary J. Blige, alongside the classic duet “Happy Trails” by Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. The debut album of Tracy Chapman and the original cast recording of the Broadway phenomenon Hamilton also made the list, showcasing the rich tapestry of American music.
Other significant entries include the chimes composed by Brian Eno for Microsoft Windows in 1995, and the groundbreaking album Chicago Transit Authority from the rock band Chicago, which garnered the highest number of public nominations this year. Additionally, Elton John’s beloved album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, featuring timeless tracks such as “Bennie and the Jets” and “Candle in the Wind,” along with Mary J. Blige’s influential album My Life, were among the top contenders.
This year’s selection process saw over 2,600 nominations from the public, reflecting a wide range of musical tastes and preferences. Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, expressed that the chosen works represent the sounds of America, describing the registry as “our evolving nation’s playlist.”
