CD sales surge 58% as US music revenue tops $6 billion

U.S. recorded music revenue rose about 6.9% to $6.0 billion in the first half of 2026, driven by a resurgence in demand for physical formats like CDs and vinyl. Physical music revenue jumped 25.9% to $731.5 million, with CD revenue up 58.6% and vinyl up 17.7%, while streaming remained the largest revenue source at $4.9 billion and paid subscriptions climbed 6.4% to $3.4 billion. Industry observers describe the period as a healthy, diversified marketplace that supports continued investment in artists and new ways for audiences to experience music. The trend continues the ongoing vinyl and CD revival that has broadened opportunities for artists to release music on retro formats alongside streaming. These dynamics indicate a notable shift in consumption patterns, underscoring the enduring appeal of tangible formats even as on-demand streaming dominates the industry.