US Music Revenue Boosted by CD Sales Surge

U.S. recorded music revenue saw a significant boost in the first half of 2026, driven by a substantial resurgence in CD sales, according to a midyear report from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Overall revenue for the period reached approximately $6 billion, a 6.9 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025. Physical music formats collectively experienced a 25.9 percent year-over-year jump in revenue. While vinyl remained the largest revenue generator within the physical category, bringing in $554 million, its revenue growth was 17.7 percent. Compact discs, however, demonstrated the most striking comeback, with revenue soaring by 58.6 percent to $171 million in the first six months of 2026, up from about $108 million in the first half of 2025. This surge in CD revenue outpaced vinyl's growth rate, indicating a renewed consumer interest in the format. Experts suggest this trend is partly fueled by a desire for better audio quality and a more tangible music experience compared to streaming. Some consumers are opting for affordable all-in-one systems that include CD players, rather than investing in more expensive turntable setups.