The compact disc, a revolutionary digital optical disc storage format developed by Sony and Philips, made its debut in Japan in a significant launch event. This innovative format allowed for storing and playing back music in digital form, providing improved sound quality and convenience compared to the analog records and cassette tapes that preceded it. On this notable day, Sony also released the CDP-101, the first commercially available compact disc player. This player had a sleek design and featured the ability to read the new compact discs, transforming how music was consumed.

The development of the compact disc technology can be traced back to the 1970s when both companies sought to create a new audio format that would overcome the limitations of existing media. The compact disc utilized laser technology for reading data, translating to a longer lifespan and higher fidelity sound. During the launch, retailers in Japan displayed both the discs and the CDP-101 prominently, providing demos that showcased the superior sound quality and instant access to tracks, captivating consumers.

This event not only introduced a new medium for music but also laid the groundwork for the eventual global adoption of the compact disc, which would dominate the music industry for decades. Over the years, the format evolved, leading to the development of higher capacity discs, but the original compact disc and its player remain iconic in the history of audio technology.