Analog records, commonly known as vinyl records, are a format for storing sound. They consist of a flat disc made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with grooves that encode audio signals. When played on a turntable, a needle, or stylus, moves through these grooves, converting the physical variations into sound waves. These records became popular in the early 20th century and were a primary medium for music until the rise of digital formats. Artists like The Beatles and Elvis Presley released many iconic albums on analog records, which are still cherished by collectors and audiophiles today for their warm sound quality.