Jukebox (Cylinder Record Player)

by Kenner

Let’s play the Jukebox! Although the idea of a musical player for kids is not unique, Kenner released this decidedly unique musical toy in 1971. This music machine came with over 30 minutes of music — ready to play. Although additional cylinder records were available, there were 14 hits of childrens’ favorites included in this starter, but complete, outfit.

The available songs included:

Hardly the lineup exclusively for the 3-8 year old crowd, it seems Kenner attempted to include something for everyone. “Let It Be”, “Let The Sunshine In” and “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head” were big hits of the day for teens and above — not to mention the hip 6-year-olds.

After the initial setup, playing the Kenner Jukebox was a snap for the kids through easy random selection: just press, select and play! Powered by 4 “D” batteries, this solid-state music machine touted big sound via new, specially developed, unbreakable cylinder records!

The box pictured a group of children having a great time dancing to the music on a colorful background. It also hyped the advantages of no scratched records, volume control, speed control, battery-operated, sapphire needle and portable.

Customization was allowed by arranging the records in your desired order and then simply rearranging the record labels accordingly. A spare “drive band” was included. Seems Kenner truly aimed to please with this one.

According to Popular Mechanics, December 1971, this toy retailed for about $15.50 at department stores.

Most attractive, and appropriately colored for the 1970s, this blue, orange, pink and lime-green machine looked amazingly similar to a full-sized jukebox. It’s no wonder children experienced hours of fun with this wonderful little musical device with real big sound in a compact, portable package.