Liner notes are the part of album packaging that contains information about the record, like credits for everyone involved in the recording, information about the record label putting out the record, copyright information, and sometimes, song lyrics. On a vinyl release, the liner notes traditionally refers to either the inner sleeve that holds the record or to an insert that is inside the album sleeve. Sometimes, however, people refer to the outer record cover/sleeve as the liner notes, if that is the part of the packaging that contains the information. On a CD, the liner notes are the booklet in the jewel box.
Liner notes have often been a favorite part of the album for fans as it gives them some background information about the music itself, but in recent years, the rise in music downloads has meant liner notes have become less important to a new generation of music lovers. Some music downloading sites do offer downloadable liner notes to cater to fans who carve the packaging.
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