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CD Resurgence Lifts U.S. Recorded Music Revenue in 2026
People in the United States bought more music during the first half of 2026.
Total recorded music revenue grew by nearly 7%.
CDs were especially popular, with their revenue rising by 58.6%.
Vinyl records also sold more than they did a year earlier.
Physical music revenue grew faster than streaming revenue.
Streaming still made the most money overall.
Paid music subscriptions also increased.
The Recording Industry Association of America said the market is healthy and supports artists and new ways to enjoy music.
U.S. recorded music revenue rose 6.9% year over year to $6.0 billion in the first half of 2026.
Physical music revenue increased 25.9% to $731.5 million, led by a 58.6% rise in CD revenue.
Vinyl revenue grew 17.7%, continuing the revival of physical music formats.
Streaming remained the largest revenue source, rising 4.7% to $4.9 billion.
Paid subscriptions increased 6.4% to $3.4 billion, according to Recording Industry Association of America data.
- Who
- U.S. music consumers, artists, streaming services, and the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
- What
- U.S. recorded music revenue increased nearly 7%, with strong growth in CD and vinyl sales.
- Where
- The United States.
- When
- The first half of 2026; the data was released on Tuesday.
- Why
- Growing interest in retro physical formats, alongside continued streaming and subscription growth, increased overall music revenue.
Key facts
- Total recorded music revenue
- $6.0 billion in the first half of 2026
- Year-over-year growth
- 6.9%
- Physical music revenue
- $731.5 million, up 25.9%
- CD revenue growth
- 58.6%
- Vinyl revenue growth
- 17.7%
- Streaming revenue
- $4.9 billion, up 4.7%
- Paid subscription revenue
- $3.4 billion, up 6.4%
Sources
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