RIAA 2026 Mid-Year Report: Streaming Growth Drives Revenue to $6 Billion, CD Sales Increase More Than 50%
Streaming remains the largest revenue driver, having grown by 4.7% to $4.9 billion.
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) released its 2026 mid-year report on Tuesday, indicating a 6.9% increase in revenue for the U.S. recorded music industry during the first half of 2026. The total revenue reached $6 billion, marking an increase from the previous half of 2025. Streaming emerged as the largest revenue driver, growing by 4.7% to $4.9 billion and accounting for 82% of overall revenues.
Vinyl sales saw a 17.7% increase to $554 million, while CDs experienced the most significant percentage boost of 58.6% to $171 million. Synch revenue climbed by 18.2% to $232 million. Streaming revenue, encompassing paid subscriptions, free streaming, and other sources, increased by 4.7%, with premium paid subscriptions rising by 5.5% in units to 111.1 million subscribers and in value to $3.1 billion.
Non-premium paid subscriptions dropped by 9% to $239 million, while free streaming reached approximately $900 million, up 3.7%. Album and single downloads saw declines of 2.5% and 3% in units, respectively, with revenue decreasing by 12.7% overall. RIAA Chairman and CEO Mitch Glazier stated that the partnership between labels, artists, and platforms is strengthening connections, driving engagement, and expanding opportunities in the music community.
Written by urgent.news from Billboard's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
