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US Music Revenue Database

For questions about the use of this wholesale revenue data, email research@riaa.com.

 

US Recorded Music Revenue by Year

Explore how the US recorded music industry has evolved over the past five decades. Each year provides a snapshot covering revenue, formats, and market breakdown.

 

The five-year chart captures revenue trends leading into the selected year, while the format share chart shows listening preferences for that period. Additional highlights provide context on top-performing formats and notable RIAA Gold & Platinum certifications.

 

 

US Recorded Music Revenue by Format

Explore how each format has evolved since 1973. These visuals illustrate how music formats emerge, grow, and the impact of changes in technology.

 

Revenue Category Definitions:

  • Paid Subscriptions (Premium): Premium-tier subscription services providing unlimited, on-demand access to music, paid under either trial or full subscription plans. 
  • Paid Subscriptions (Non-Premium): Music subscription services with limited interactivity (e.g., device, catalog, or on-demand restrictions) or bundled within broader offerings where music is not the primary service, such as fitness apps. Includes paid trials and full subscriptions. 
  • Free Streaming (formerly “On-Demand Streaming – Ad-Supported”): Ad-supported audio and music video services that do not operate under statutory licenses. Includes social media platforms (including ad-supported VOD and UGC), and free-tier audio subscription services delivered online or via mobile networks. 
  • Other Streaming (New in 2025): Combination of “SoundExchange Distributions” and “Other Ad-Supported Streaming” from previous reports. Estimated payments to performers and copyright holders for digital and customized radio services operating under statutory licenses, including SoundExchange distributions and similar direct deals. 
  • Download Single: Permanent single-track digital downloads. 
  • Download Album: Permanent full-album digital downloads. 
  • Ringtones & Ringbacks: Includes master ringtones and ringbacks. Prior to 2013, also included music videos, full-length downloads, and other mobile products. 
  • Other Digital: Digital music licensing revenues from kiosks, music video downloads, digital jukeboxes, and embedded services (e.g., in-flight entertainment). 
  • Vinyl: Full-length vinyl albums, including direct and special market sales. 
  • CD: Full-length compact disc albums, including direct and special market sales. 
  • Other Physical: Physical music formats other than standard vinyl and CD albums, including CD singles, DVDs, Blu-ray music videos, cassettes, MiniDiscs, SACD, DVD-Audio, and other formats.
  • Synchronization: Flat fees or royalties derived from licensing sound recordings for use in television, advertising, film, video games, and other audiovisual productions.