CD Sales Surge Sharply as Physical Media Returns

The physical media renaissance is entering a new phase, according to data from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) reported by The Verge. In the first half of 2026, CD sales recorded a sharp jump, with consumers purchasing 17.5 million compact discs during the six-month period.

By comparison, 12 million CDs were sold in the same period of 2025, representing a 45.7 per cent increase in unit sales. The financial growth was even more striking, with revenues reaching $171.1 million—a 58.6 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

A sharp market shift

These figures came as a surprise to industry analysts. Between 2024 and 2025, CD sales had fallen by 22 per cent, leading many to assume the format was fading permanently. However, figures for the first half of 2026 demonstrated a complete reversal.

The RIAA is not the only organisation tracking this resurgence. Research firm Luminate also noted in a July report that 16.3 million CDs were sold in the first six months of 2026. The nearly identical metrics confirm that demand for physical music formats is genuinely expanding.

The renewed interest in physical media amidst the digital streaming era demonstrates that listeners still value owning music albums in a tangible format. The rising popularity of compact discs marks a notable shift for the music industry as the trend gains momentum globally.