U.S. Recorded Music Revenue Hits $6 B in First Half of 2026, CD Sales Surge

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced on Tuesday that U.S. recorded‑music revenue reached $6.0 billion in the first half of 2026, a 6.9 % increase from the same period in 2025.

The jump is largely driven by a 25.9 % rise in physical‑music sales, which now total $731.5 million. CD revenue grew 58.6 % to $447.5 million, while vinyl sales increased 17.7 % to $284.0 million. Streaming revenue—the largest segment—rose 4.7 % to $4.9 billion, and paid‑subscription revenue climbed 6.4 % to $3.4 billion.

Physical formats now account for 12.2 % of total recorded‑music revenue, up from 9.6 % a year earlier. The CD’s rapid growth, the fastest among physical media, reflects a broader consumer interest in retro music formats that has also benefited vinyl. The organization’s VP of Research, Matt Bass, described the results as evidence of a “healthy, diversified marketplace” that supports continued investment in artists and new listening experiences.

Industry analysts note that the CD’s rebound is part of a longer trend of physical‑media revival that began with vinyl in the late 2000s. The RIAA’s data indicate that the CD’s growth rate is roughly six times that of vinyl in the first half of 2026, suggesting that collectors and audiophiles are returning to the format. Record labels have responded by increasing CD production for new releases and reissues, and some distributors have reported higher inventory turnover.

The streaming segment remains the dominant source of revenue, but its growth rate is modest compared with the physical‑media surge. Paid‑subscription services continue to expand their user bases, contributing to the 6.4 % rise in subscription revenue. The RIAA’s report does not provide a forecast for the second half of 2026, but the current figures suggest that the industry will likely see continued diversification of revenue streams.

In summary, U.S. recorded‑music revenue surpassed $6 billion in the first half of 2026, driven by a sharp increase in CD sales and steady growth in streaming and paid subscriptions. The data underscore a sustained consumer appetite for physical formats and a resilient streaming market.