RIAA Releases 2026 Mid-Year Recorded Music Revenue Report

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The RIAA has released its Mid-Year 2026 US Recorded Music Revenue Report, noting US recorded music revenue reached six billion dollars in the first half of 2026, up 6.9% and outpacing US inflation.

According to the report, every major revenue category grew. Streaming generated $4.9B, up 4.7%, and remained the largest source of recorded music revenue. Paid subscriptions reached $3.4B, up 6.4%, and free streaming reached $900M, up 3.7%.

“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,” says RIAA VP of Research Matt Bass.

“As US music revenues continue to grow across formats, labels are strengthening connections between artists, fans and the platforms delivering creative work,” shares RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier. “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.”

See the full report here.

Lauryn Sink
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