James Rhodes releases the first classic NFT album recognized by official charts

Pianist James Rhodes is to release the first classical non-fungible token (NFT) album to count towards the official charts.

The 47-year-old musician and writer has partnered with music platform Serenade to release a limited edition digital pressing of his upcoming album Vitamin C.

The album, which will be released by independent label Signum Classics on March 31, in addition to digital pressing on web3 music platform Serenade, will make Rhodes the first classical artist to have a chart-accredited NFT album.

An NFT is a digital resource that is completely unique and cannot be copied or replaced. A digital pressing, which is a chart-accredited digital release, is a form of an NFT in music.

Digital pressing is available on Serenade, which is a web3 platform meaning it is part of a new, decentralized form of internet service.

Rhodes will follow in the footsteps of English rock band Muse, who last year worked with Serenade to become the first band in the world to top the UK Albums Chart with an NFT in the form of their ninth studio album Will Of The People.

The album, released by the rock trio in August 2022, was available as a limited edition NFT digital pressing in addition to more conventional formats including digital and on vinyl and CD.

Each digital pressing of Rhodes Vitamin C will unlock HD audio and access to exclusive content, including a video of Rhodes discussing the making of his album.

Each owner of the digital pressing will also have their name listed next to the record.

Ahead of the album’s release at the end of next month, Rhodes will release three singles, which will be available on all major streaming platforms ahead of the full album.

The first of the three singles, Chopin’s Mazurka, Op. 17, no. 4, will also be available as a digital press from 15 February, but will be limited to only 25 issues.

Speaking about the upcoming album, which will also feature music by Bach, Rhodes said: “It’s been a while since the last album and I’ve chosen to record some of the pieces that have had the biggest impact on me and brought me the most comfort .

“God knows we all need a shot of something right now, and these bits combine to form a monster dose of vitamin C for the soul.

“Listening to Pogorelich playing Chopin’s Third Scherzo at the Chopin Competition, Gould keeping me company in the middle of the night with the B minor prelude and fugue or Sokolov performing the rarely played impromptu in London have been defining moments in my life, in childhood, adolescence and adulthood.

“Each track on this album has a similar story of inspiration and hope for me.”

Founder of Serenade Max Shand said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with James and Signum on the first classic album in the digital press format. To work with an artist as eclectic, talented and passionate as James is an honor and we are hugely grateful to have been entrusted with this album.

“Delivering more meaningful fan experiences through music ownership is central to our mission, and we look forward to welcoming fans of James to our platform as collectors.”