Vinyl Sales Soar — and Even CDs Rebound — as U.S. Recorded Music Industry Posts $15 Billion Year-End Numbers
variety.comJem Aswad Senior Music EditorThe U.S. recorded-music business continues its upward swing, posting a near-record $15 billion in revenue for 2021, driven by a surge in streaming, solid vinyl and even CD sales, and the inclusion of TikTok music revenue for the first time.In fact, all major formats of music posted growth over the prior year, except digital downloads.
Paid subscriptions continued to be the biggest growth driver, resulting in the sixth consecutive year of growth for music revenues.
At wholesale value, 2021 revenues were up 22% to $9.8 billion.While the $15 billion number is itself a record, when adjusted for inflation, it’s actually nearly 40% lower than the previous record of $14.6 billion in 1999.
Streaming — a wide category that includes paid subscriptions, ad-supported music streaming services, digital and customized radio, licenses for music on Facebook and digital fitness apps, and for the first time, U.S.
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