Why are CD sales suddenly growing again?
The Verge·July 16, 2026
CD sales have experienced a significant surge, with 16.3 million units sold in the US during the first half of 2026, representing a 16 percent increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to fans seeking affordable ways to support their favorite artists, as well as the release of popular albums, including those from K-pop groups like BTS. Even excluding K-pop sales, CD sales still saw a 6.7 percent increase, indicating a broader trend. The resurgence of CD sales is driven by factors such as collection building and price accessibility, with some buyers purchasing CDs for reasons beyond listening to the music.
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