back catalogue

plural back catalogues · alternative US back catalog

1. library scienceA listing of all the works of a specific artist, or all the books, records, etc. of a specific publisher, including works that are no longer available.

   Synonyms: backlist

2. informalThe works themselves.

   The packed opening night of Twain’s first UK tour since 2004 is an impressively barnstorming, thigh-slapping, eye-searing revue that marries her bulletproof back catalogue with a cautious sprinkle of new material.

   2018 September 20, Graeme Virtue, “Shania Twain review – barnstorming, thigh-slapping spectacular”, in The Guardian

   1 more example

   The 21st-century troubadour has to carve out a profile in the digital realm, where they must compete with today’s megastars and the back catalogues of yesterday. The next Dylan has to win audiences over from the original Dylan. Anyone hoping to top British charts in December has to compete with Last Christmas by Wham!, first released in 1984.

   2025 January 17, “The Guardian view on musical tastes: beware the algorithm comfort zone”, in The Guardian