In 1887, Emile Berliner patented the gramophone, introducing flat disc recordings that improved upon Edison's cylinder system for sound reproduction. This innovation enabled mass production and better fidelity for music and spoken word. It transformed entertainment, preserved performances, and democratized access to audio culture, including poetry recitations and musical accompaniment.

The invention of the gramophone in 1887 revolutionized sound reproduction, profoundly impacting oral poetry performance and the music hall tradition. Poets began to embrace the possibilities of recorded sound, leading to a new appreciation for the rhythm and musicality of language.