US physical music sales surge as vinyl and CD revenue grow

Physical music formats are experiencing a significant resurgence in the United States. According to data from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), CD revenue surged by approximately 58% to roughly $171 million, while vinyl sales grew by 18%, reaching about $544 million.

While streaming remains the primary source of recorded music revenue at $4.9 billion, the growth in physical media highlights a shift in consumer behavior. Analysts suggest that Gen Z is driving much of this interest in vintage technology. Factors contributing to the boom include a desire for permanent collections, the ability to support artists more directly than streaming allows, and the appeal of mindful, analog listening.

Major retailers such as Target and Walmart are responding to the trend by expanding their physical music departments.