Song singles were not invented with the advent of music downloads, but have long been a part of the music business landscape, starting when 45’s were introduced with a hit tune on one side, and a lesser known or popular song on the “B” side.  The fifties were a prime example of this music culture along with the jukeboxes that were filled with these 45’s. 

 

The music industry and fans began to move away from that singles format in the 60’s through to the 90’s, as full albums and CD’s dominated the landscape.  It wasn’t until music downloads and mp3 technology hit the ground running in the new century that singles made a dramatic comeback.  So much so, that full albums and CD’s appear to be an afterthought to those purchasing and downloading new music of the day.