RIAA Releases 2026 Mid-Year Recorded Music Revenue Report

The RIAA has released its Mid-Year 2026 US Recorded Music Revenue Report, noting US recorded…

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.”