CD Sales Surge Lifts US Music Revenue to $6 Billion in First Half of 2026

A surprising resurgence in compact disc sales helped drive U.S. recorded music revenue up 6.9% to $6.0 billion in the first half of 2026, according to a new report from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The growth highlights a broadening consumer appetite for physical music formats, following the long-running revival of vinyl records.

Key Figures for H1 2026

The RIAA's mid-year report detailed growth across multiple formats, with physical media posting the most significant percentage gains. Streaming, however, remains the industry's primary financial engine.

• Total Revenue: Grew 6.9% year-over-year to $6.0 billion.
• Physical Music Revenue: Jumped 25.9% to $731.5 million.
• CD Revenue: Surged 58.6%, leading physical format growth.
• Vinyl Revenue: Continued its upward trend, rising 17.7%.
• Streaming Revenue: Increased 4.7% to $4.9 billion, accounting for the vast majority of the total.

Streaming Dominates as Physical Formats Diversify

While the percentage growth in CD and vinyl sales is notable, streaming continues to be the dominant force in the music industry. Revenue from streaming services, including a 6.4% rise in paid subscriptions to $3.4 billion, accounted for approximately 82% of total industry revenue in the first half of the year.

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The robust performance of physical media suggests a diversification of consumer habits. The trend, which began with vinyl's comeback, now appears to include CDs, providing artists and labels with an expanding, high-margin revenue stream alongside digital platforms.

Industry Perspective

The results point to a market that can support both digital and physical consumption simultaneously. According to RIAA VP of Research Matt Bass, the data reflects a "healthy, diversified marketplace."

This environment supports continued investment in artists and allows for the development of new ways for audiences to engage with music, from on-demand streaming to tangible, collectible formats.