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Twenty-five years after founding Discogs, Kevin Lewandowski spoke with The Verge about the evolution of the online music database, his personal tech habits, and his passion for physical media amid a growing resurgence in vinyl record collecting.
From Vinyl Database to Music Marketplace
What began as a platform for vinyl enthusiasts has expanded into a massive music database and commercial marketplace. Discogs allows users to buy and sell physical records while cataloging detailed information on albums, singles, and specific pressings across various genres. Over the years, the site has added community features such as discussion forums, groups, and member-curated lists, combining elements of a marketplace, message board, and reference archive for music fans.
Daily Tools and Smart Home Projects
In an interview with The Verge, Lewandowski shared details about his everyday routine and technology preferences. He described his AeroPress as his most indispensable tool, noting that he uses the coffee maker multiple times daily. Regarding his digital workflow, Lewandowski revealed that he typically keeps around 30 browser tabs open on his work computer and between 40 and 50 on his personal machine.
While he checks platforms like X and Instagram occasionally, Lewandowski stated that he rarely posts on social media. Instead of commercial consumer gadgets, he expressed a preference for custom DIY setups. Using Home Assistant software, he built his own system to manage household functions, including his garage door and outdoor lighting.
Creative Inspirations and Physical Media
When asked about software he admires, Lewandowski pointed to Rez, a rhythm-based video game released around 2000 that integrates music control into gameplay. He mentioned having an initial concept for a similar game idea of his own. To stay focused during work, he explained that he either clears his desk or moves to a new environment, such as a local coffee shop or an outdoor space.
Despite managing a major digital platform, Lewandowski remains an active buyer of physical music. During a trip to Portland, he purchased four records at Mint Gallery, alongside three reissues from the Moodsville and Acoustic Sounds series. Reflecting on his personal humor, he recalled editing a Discogs screenshot into a photograph of a North Korean war room, though colleagues advised him that it might not be appropriate for the company chat.
