The spelling of "gold record" is predictable when you break it down phonetically. "Gold" is pronounced with the same "o" sound as "go" and rhymes with "cold." "Record" is pronounced with an "uh" sound as in "uh-oh" and has the same vowel sound as "word." When combined, the phrase is pronounced "gohld reh-kord." A gold record is a symbol of great success in the music industry, indicating that an artist's album has sold 500,000 copies or more.
A Gold Record is a prestigious recognition in the music industry that signifies the successful sale or shipment of a certain number of copies of a specific musical recording. It is an official certification awarded to artists, bands, or record labels by various music associations or industry organizations in recognition of their commercial success.
Typically, a Gold Record is earned when an album or single surpasses a specified sales threshold, which may vary depending on the country or the recording industry. In the United States, for instance, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) awards a Gold Record when an album or single has shipped or sold 500,000 copies. Other countries may have different criteria, such as higher or lower sales requirements.
The Gold Record trophy itself often features a gold-plated or gold-painted vinyl disc, symbolizing the achievement of reaching this significant milestone. Receiving a Gold Record signifies commercial success and popularity for the artist or band, as it demonstrates a substantial number of fans or consumers who have purchased their music.
Gold Records are highly sought-after and celebrated within the music industry. They are not only a testament to an artist's talent and creativity but also serve as a mark of their impact and influence on the musical landscape. Artists often display their Gold Records as a sign of accomplishment and recognition in their careers.
The word "gold record" consists of two components: "gold" and "record".
1. Gold: The term "gold" can be traced back to the Old English word "geolu" or "geolwe", which referred to the precious metal. The word later evolved to "gold" in Middle English, and its etymology can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "gulþą" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*ǵʰelh₃-", meaning "yellow" or "gleaming".
2. Record: The word "record" came from the Latin word "recordāri", meaning "to remember" or "to call to mind". It entered Old French as "recorder" with the same meaning. Eventually, in Middle English, it evolved to "record", referring to a written document or an item of information that is preserved.