CD sales are making an unexpected comeback amid a retro tech boom
CD sales have seen a significant rebound in the first half of 2026, driven by a broader cultural trend of Gen Z embracing retro technology. This shift reflects a desire for simpler, non-algorithmic tech experiences, leading to increased demand for physical media and vintage gadgets.
Why it matters
This trend highlights a shifting consumer behavior in the music industry and a potential market pivot toward analog or 'dumb' technology.
Retro tech is making a comeback , and this week, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) put hard numbers to that trend in terms of music consumption habits. Surprisingly, the organization reported that CDs — yes, the shiny, round things that Spotify supposedly killed — are growing once again.
According to the RIAA’s new report , CDs generated $171.1 million in revenue during the first half of 2026 — up 58.6% from roughly $107.9 million in the first half of 2025 — on 17.5 million units sold, up 45.7% from about 12 million units in the same period last year.
That rebound is all the more interesting because it follows a rough 2025. Last year’s full-year report showed CD revenue had actually fallen 7.8% for the full year, from $338.9 million in 2024 to $312.4 million in 2025, while units sold dropped 11.6%, from 33.3 million to 29.5 million.
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