Extended play record Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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extended play record

[ɪkˈstɛndɪd pleɪ ˈrɛkɔrd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

An extended play record, often referred to as an EP, is a musical recording that contains more tracks than a single, but is usually shorter than an album. EPs are typically used as a way for artists to release new music or experiment with different styles without committing to a full-length album.

Synonyms

EP, extended play, mini-album.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
extended play record	Formal or detailed discussions about music formats, especially in historical contexts. Many classic bands from the 1960s released their first hits on extended play records. Collectors often seek out rare extended play records for their unique tracks.
EP	Casual conversations, especially among music enthusiasts and in music journalism. Their new EP drops next week, and I can't wait to hear it. She has a couple of great songs on her latest EP.
extended play	General discussions about music formats; similar to 'EP' but slightly more formal. The band's extended play includes some tracks that didn't make it to the album. Many emerging artists release extended plays before committing to a full album.
mini-album	Mostly used in certain music genres like K-pop, or to highlight that an EP feels closer to a full album due to more songs or a cohesive theme. The group's mini-album has gained international popularity. They released a mini-album that showcases their evolving sound.

Examples of usage

Her latest release is an EP featuring five tracks.
The band decided to put out an EP before their full album.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Music Industry

EPs are often used by new artists to showcase their work without the commitment of a full album.
Many famous artists, like The Beatles and Bruce Springsteen, started their careers with extended play records, allowing them to build a following.

Technology

With the rise of digital music, many artists now release EPs directly on streaming platforms, making them accessible to fans quickly.
The format has evolved and transformed, with many EPs now featuring an even mix of experimentation and polished soundscapes, thanks to modern recording technologies.

Pop Culture

Extended play records have gained popularity in various music genres, including pop, rock, and indie, making them a staple of new music discovery.
Notable EPs, such as 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy' by Kanye West, have received critical acclaim and have changed the landscape of how music releases are perceived.

Artistic Expression

EPs allow artists to explore new themes or styles in a shorter format without the pressures of creating a full-length album.
They often feature a mix of standout singles and experimental tracks that may not fit on a full album, letting artists showcase their versatility.

Origin of 'extended play record'

Main points about word origin

The term 'extended play' first was used by record companies in the 1950s to categorize releases with more music than singles.
The abbreviation 'EP' became common in the music industry and is still used today to describe these shorter records.

The concept of EPs dates back to the 1950s when they were used as a marketing tool to promote singles or albums. As technology advanced, EPs became more popular among independent artists and bands looking to showcase their work in a shorter format. Today, EPs continue to be a common way for musicians to release new music and connect with their audience.