RIAA Reports $6 Billion In Mid-Year Recorded Music Revenue

09-01-2026

(TPR) The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) today announced that US recorded music revenues for the first half of 2026 were up 6.9% from the first half of 2025 and outpaced inflation, with growth across every major revenue category as streaming, physical formats and sync all posted gains.

Accounting for 82% of total revenue at $4.9 billion, streaming remained the largest driver - powered by paid subscriptions. Double-digit growth in vinyl, CDs and sync licensing underscores the breadth of ways artists connect with fans in an increasingly varied and dynamic market.

"The power of music, amplified from earbuds to basement listening parties to World Cup playlists across the US, is reflected not only in its cultural significance but also in the $6 billion revenue documented in RIAA's Mid-Year Recorded Music Revenue Report. These results point to a healthy, diversified marketplace supporting continued investment in artists and new ways for audiences to experience music," said RIAA VP of Research Matt Bass.

Growth across streaming, subscriptions, sync and physical formats reflects not simply more consumption but continued fan excitement with different ways to experience music across an increasingly varied marketplace.

"As US music revenues continue to grow across formats, labels are strengthening connections between artists, fans and the platforms delivering creative work," RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier said. "That partnership is driving engagement in new and expanding ways to create opportunities that will lift up the entire music community for years to come."

The RIAA 2026 Mid-Year Recorded Music Revenue Report captures strong growth, a diversifying marketplace and increasing opportunities for artists to reach and inspire their fans. As consumers and creators navigate new technologies and music experiences, the music community's focus on transparency and protecting human artistry including initiatives like labeling of AI music remains essential for long-term success.

2026 H1 Key Takeaways:
US recorded music revenue reached $6B in the first half of 2026, up 6.9% and outpacing US inflation

Every major revenue category grew, reflecting a healthy and increasingly diversified marketplace

Streaming generated $4.9B, up 4.7%, and remained the largest source of recorded music revenue

Paid subscriptions reached $3.4B, up 6.4%, continuing to power streaming growth
Free streaming reached $900M, up 3.7%

Physical revenues jumped 25.9%, powered by 17.7% vinyl growth and a 58.6% increase in CDs

Sync licensing grew 18.2% to $232M, emphasizing music's continued value across film, television, advertising and digital media