The resurgence of vinyl records continues, defying the dominance of streaming and marking its 19th consecutive year of growth. Global recorded music revenues reached $31.7 billion (£23.7 billion) in 2025, a 6.4% increase, according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry’s (IFPI) Global Music Report 2026. Whereas streaming remains the primary driver of revenue – accounting for almost 70% of the total – physical formats, including vinyl, are experiencing a remarkable comeback. Revenue from vinyl sales grew by 14%, demonstrating a sustained appetite for the tangible experience of music ownership.
This growth isn’t simply a nostalgic trend; it represents a significant portion of the overall music market. The IFPI report highlights a global shift in how people consume music, with paid subscription streaming leading the way at 52.4% of total revenues, fueled by 837 million users worldwide. Although, the continued success of vinyl demonstrates that a substantial audience still values the ritual and connection offered by physical media. Drew Hill, managing director at Proper Music Distribution, noted that vinyl “provide[s] something streaming struggles to replicate: a tangible connection with fans.”
The Rise of Olivia Dean and the Power of Physical Connection
The IFPI’s report specifically spotlighted the success of British singer Olivia Dean as an example of the industry’s current landscape. Her “global award-winning success” serves as a case study in navigating the modern music ecosystem. The report doesn’t detail specifics of Dean’s success, but her inclusion underscores the importance of artists connecting with audiences across multiple platforms, including the increasingly popular vinyl format.
The 14% increase in vinyl revenue builds on years of consistent growth. The figures, as reported by the Irish News, show a continued preference for physical media despite the convenience of digital streaming. This trend is observed “in almost every major territory,” according to Hill, indicating a widespread phenomenon rather than a localized blip.
Streaming Still Dominates, But Faces New Challenges
Despite the growth of vinyl, streaming remains the dominant force in the music industry. Total streaming revenues surpassed $22 billion (£16.5 billion), representing 69.6% of global recorded music income. Paid subscription streaming grew by 8.8%, demonstrating the continued willingness of consumers to pay for access to vast music libraries. However, the industry is also grappling with emerging challenges, particularly the threat of streaming fraud.
The IFPI report identifies streaming fraud as an increasing concern, calling for a “strong, industry-wide response.” The report suggests that addressing this issue is crucial for ensuring fair compensation for artists and maintaining the integrity of the streaming ecosystem. The report also points to the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive innovation and create new opportunities within the music industry.
A Look at the Numbers
Here’s a breakdown of the key figures from the IFPI’s Global Music Report 2026:
| Category | Revenue (USD Billions) | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | $22.0 | 69.6% |
| Physical | $6.8 | 21.4% |
| Digital Downloads | $2.9 | 9.1% |
| Total | $31.7 | 100% |
The Future of Music Consumption
The continued growth of vinyl, alongside the dominance of streaming, paints a complex picture of the modern music landscape. Consumers are demonstrating a willingness to embrace both convenience and tangible experiences, suggesting a future where multiple formats coexist. The IFPI’s emphasis on addressing streaming fraud and exploring the potential of AI indicates a proactive approach to navigating the evolving challenges and opportunities within the industry.
The next key date for industry updates will be the release of the IFPI’s mid-year report, expected in July 2026, which will provide a more detailed analysis of the first half of the year’s performance. The report will likely offer further insights into the sustainability of vinyl’s growth and the effectiveness of efforts to combat streaming fraud.
What do you think about the resurgence of vinyl? Share your thoughts in the comments below and please share this article with others who are passionate about music!
Worth a look
