Turntables have long been iconic symbols in the realms of music and culture, transcending their primary purpose as tools for playing vinyl records. Their presence in popular media—from movies and TV shows to advertisements and music videos—often signifies more than just a love for music. These cameos reflect deeper themes such as nostalgia, rebellion, artistry, and the timeless allure of analog sound. Here, we explore the top nine turntable appearances in popular media, examining how these moments showcase the enduring legacy of this musical instrument.
1. Baby Driver (2017): A Turntable as a Gateway to Emotion
In Edgar Wright’s action-packed heist film Baby Driver, music plays a pivotal role in shaping the narrative and the protagonist’s identity. Baby, the titular character, uses music to drown out his tinnitus and stay focused during high-octane getaways. Among his vast collection of music equipment, a vintage turntable stands out. This piece of audio gear is not just a prop; it’s a window into Baby’s character.
The scenes featuring Baby meticulously selecting vinyl records to curate the perfect mood demonstrate his deep connection to music. The turntable becomes a symbol of his inner world, a place where he can escape the chaos of his criminal life. The film’s seamless integration of music and visuals highlights the role of turntables in shaping a deeply personal experience. Baby’s careful handling of the records and the turntable reinforces the tactile and emotional connection many people feel toward vinyl.
2. High Fidelity (2000): The Turntable as a Character
High Fidelity, based on Nick Hornby’s novel, is a love letter to music and its impact on relationships. Starring John Cusack as Rob Gordon, a record store owner, the film is steeped in vinyl culture. The turntable in Rob’s shop is more than a device; it’s a confidant and a stage for his ruminations on love and life.
One of the most iconic moments occurs when Rob organizes his extensive vinyl collection autobiographically. This quirky endeavor emphasizes the intimate, almost sacred bond between music lovers and their records. The turntable serves as a conduit for Rob’s memories and emotions, reinforcing its cultural status as more than just a playback device. Its inclusion in the movie underscores how vinyl records and turntables are integral to the identities of those who cherish them.
3. Empire Records (1995): The Turntable as a Rebel’s Ally
In Empire Records, a cult classic about the misfits working at a struggling independent record store, turntables are at the heart of the story’s musical soul. The store’s turntable symbolizes a defiance of corporate greed and a celebration of individuality. This film captures a pivotal moment in the music industry when physical media was being overtaken by digital formats.
The turntable’s presence in the store scenes highlights its role as a bastion of authenticity and rebellion. When characters engage with vinyl and the turntable, they’re making a statement about their resistance to the commodification of art. The tactile experience of spinning records becomes a metaphor for their fight to preserve the human connection in music.
4. Do the Right Thing (1989): The Turntable as a Weapon of Expression
Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing is a masterpiece that explores racial tension and community dynamics in Brooklyn during a sweltering summer. One of its most memorable characters, Radio Raheem, carries a boombox blasting Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” throughout the film. While the boombox takes center stage, turntables play a crucial background role in establishing the movie’s musical and cultural themes.
In scenes set in the local DJ’s booth, turntables serve as tools of resistance and expression. The DJ’s use of vinyl records to create a soundscape for the neighborhood underscores the turntable’s power as a medium for storytelling and activism. By incorporating turntables into the film’s fabric, Lee emphasizes their significance as instruments of cultural commentary.
5. Scratch (2001): A Celebration of the DJ’s Turntable Skills
The documentary Scratch offers a deep dive into the world of DJing and turntablism. It’s a treasure trove for anyone interested in the art of manipulating records on turntables to create new sounds. Featuring legendary DJs like Qbert, Mix Master Mike, and Grandmaster Flash, the film showcases the turntable as a musical instrument in its own right.
One standout moment is when DJ Qbert demonstrates his intricate scratching techniques, turning the turntable into an extension of his creativity. The documentary’s focus on turntablism elevates the device from a playback machine to a canvas for sonic artistry. This exploration of the turntable’s potential inspires viewers to see it not just as a tool but as a source of innovation and creativity.
6. Breaking Bad (2008–2013): The Turntable as a Slice of Nostalgia
In the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad, Walter White’s brother-in-law Hank Schrader is a vinyl enthusiast. In one memorable scene, Hank spins a record on his turntable while unwinding at home. This brief yet poignant moment contrasts sharply with the series’ intense narrative, providing a glimpse into Hank’s softer, more nostalgic side.
The inclusion of a turntable in this scene emphasizes the role of music as a source of comfort and a connection to simpler times. It’s a reminder of the analog era’s charm amidst the chaos of modern life. For viewers, the turntable represents a nostalgic escape, mirroring the solace Hank finds in his music collection.
7. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014): A Turntable in Spirit
While the Guardians of the Galaxy films prominently feature a cassette player, their spirit aligns closely with the ethos of turntables. Peter Quill’s “Awesome Mix” tapes are a love letter to analog audio, evoking the same nostalgia and tactile engagement associated with vinyl records. If a turntable had appeared in the film, it would have fit seamlessly within the narrative.
The cultural resonance of turntables parallels the emotional connection Peter has with his mixtapes. Both mediums emphasize the physicality and intentionality of enjoying music. Though absent, the turntable’s symbolic presence underscores the film’s celebration of analog sound as a means of preserving memories and expressing individuality.
8. Stranger Things (2016–Present): A Portal to the Past
Netflix’s Stranger Things masterfully weaves 1980s nostalgia into its storyline, and music plays a significant role in transporting viewers to that era. Turntables appear in several scenes, most notably in the Byers household, where vinyl records and a turntable are part of the family’s everyday life.
These scenes highlight the role of music as a unifying force and a source of solace amidst the supernatural chaos. The turntable’s presence reinforces the show’s commitment to authenticity, serving as a visual and auditory anchor to the 1980s. For audiences, these moments evoke a longing for the simplicity and warmth of analog sound.
9. 8 Mile (2002): The Turntable as a Battleground
In 8 Mile, starring Eminem, the turntable is a key element in the underground rap battles that drive the film’s narrative. The DJ’s use of turntables to spin beats and create the perfect backdrop for lyrical duels showcases the device’s role in hip-hop culture.
One iconic scene features a DJ scratching on a turntable to hype the crowd before a battle. The energy and rhythm created by the turntable set the stage for the film’s intense, emotionally charged rap performances. This portrayal underscores the turntable’s importance in hip-hop as both a musical instrument and a cultural cornerstone.
10. “Juice” (1992)
The movie “Juice,” a gritty urban drama starring Omar Epps and Tupac Shakur, prominently features the turntable as a symbol of passion and ambition. Q, portrayed by Epps, is an aspiring DJ who uses his skills to navigate the turbulent streets of Harlem. The scenes showcasing Q spinning records are electric, capturing the intensity and focus required to master the craft. The film doesn’t just use the turntable as a prop but as a character in its own right, representing Q’s dreams and the potential for a better life. The turntable sequences are infused with raw energy, with close-up shots emphasizing the hands-on precision needed to scratch and mix seamlessly. For many viewers, “Juice” immortalized the art of DJing and underscored the turntable’s role in shaping hip-hop culture.
11. “Saturday Night Fever” (1977)
The turntable’s cameo in “Saturday Night Fever” is subtle yet significant. The movie, famous for its disco-era soundtrack and John Travolta’s iconic dance moves, features a scene where the DJ cues up a record on a turntable, setting the stage for a dance floor frenzy. This brief but impactful moment underscores the DJ’s role as a gatekeeper of the party’s energy. The turntable serves as a bridge between the music and the crowd, illustrating how DJs curated the soundtrack of an era. The scene also captures the communal joy of vinyl records and the unique sound quality that defined the disco movement.
12. “Breaking Bad” (Season 4, Episode 11 “Crawl Space”)
In one of the most intense episodes of “Breaking Bad,” the turntable makes a subtle yet symbolic appearance. Walter White’s adversary, Gustavo Fring, operates a pristine turntable in his minimalist home, a reflection of his meticulous and calculated persona. The scene where Gus plays a classical vinyl record on his turntable juxtaposes the serenity of music with the chaos and violence that define his life. This moment underscores the turntable’s versatility as a storytelling device, capable of reflecting a character’s complexity and contradictions. It also highlights the enduring allure of vinyl records as a medium for timeless artistry.
13. “Back to the Future” (1985)
“Back to the Future” features one of the most creative uses of a turntable in popular media. Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, uses a turntable and an amplifier to create a thunderous sound that wakes up his friend Doc Brown. This scene not only adds humor but also emphasizes Marty’s resourcefulness and connection to music. The turntable, paired with a guitar, becomes a symbol of Marty’s personality—innovative, rebellious, and deeply tied to rock ‘n’ roll. The movie’s playful use of the turntable cemented its place in pop culture history as a versatile and creative tool.
14. The Get Down” (2016-2017)
Netflix’s musical drama “The Get Down” takes viewers on a journey through the birth of hip-hop in the Bronx during the 1970s. The turntable is at the heart of this series, representing the burgeoning DJ culture that laid the foundation for modern hip-hop. Characters like Shaolin Fantastic demonstrate the art of mixing and scratching, showcasing the turntable’s role as an instrument of innovation. The series masterfully captures the energy of block parties and the raw creativity of early DJs who turned turntables into tools for revolution. “The Get Down” is a vibrant homage to the pioneers of hip-hop and their ingenious use of technology.
The Legacy of Turntables in Media
The turntable’s appearances in popular media reflect its multifaceted role in society. From symbolizing rebellion and creativity to serving as a tool for storytelling, the turntable has left an indelible mark on movies, TV shows, and music videos. These cameos not only celebrate the artistry of DJing but also highlight the timeless appeal of vinyl records. As digital technology continues to dominate, the turntable remains a cherished symbol of authenticity, bridging the past and the present.
The Timeless Appeal of Turntables
These iconic appearances of turntables in popular media highlight their enduring significance as cultural symbols. Whether as tools of rebellion, instruments of artistry, or portals to nostalgia, turntables continue to captivate audiences and inspire creators. Their presence in films, TV shows, and music underscores their unique ability to evoke emotion and tell stories.
Drocker: Your Ultimate Vinyl Destination
For enthusiasts who share a passion for vinyl and turntables, Drocker is your go-to destination for all things analog. From high-quality turntables to an extensive collection of vinyl records, Drocker offers everything you need to immerse yourself in the rich, tactile experience of music. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of vinyl, Drocker is here to help you rediscover the magic of sound. Visit Drocker today and take the first step toward building your perfect analog audio setup!
