CD sales surge in the US as Gen Z drives physical music comeback

Compact discs (CDs) are experiencing a significant commercial resurgence, particularly driven by interest from Generation Z. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), CD revenues in the United States rose by 58.6 percent during the first half of 2026, reaching approximately 171 million US dollars, compared to 108 million US dollars in the same period the previous year.

Market research firm Luminate reported that roughly 16.3 million CDs were sold in the first half of 2026, marking a 16 percent increase year-over-year. While vinyl remains the more dominant physical music format—generating 554 million US dollars from 21.8 million units sold—the growth in CD sales suggests a shift in consumer behavior toward physical media for intentional listening experiences.