Blondie "Parallel Lines" Eight Track Tape, 1978

The 8-track tape is an endless-loop, magnetic-tape sound recording technology developed in the mid-1960s. Inventors initially conceived of the 8-track tape and player to provide music in automobiles--its portability was an attractive feature. An 8-track tape also offered long playing times, but other features could hinder listening pleasure. Improved cassette tapes and new compact disc technology displaced the 8-track in the early 1980s.