GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Music Recording Industry Statistics

The music recording industry statistics provide insights into the sales, popularity, and trends of music releases across different formats and genres.

Highlights: Music Recording Industry Statistics

  • The global recorded music market grew by 7.4% in 2020.
  • The total revenues for the U.S. recorded music industry was $12.15 billion in 2020.
  • Streaming services made up 83% of total music industry revenue in 2020 in the United States.
  • The total number of paid music subscribers in the US was 75.5 million in 2020.
  • Vinyl record sales have grown 28.7% to $619.6 million in 2020, the highest level since 1988 in the US.
  • Latin music revenues in the US were up 19% to $407 million in 2019.
  • In 2019, the music industry contributed £5.2 billion to the UK economy.
  • China's recorded music revenues grew by 16% in 2020, ranking seventh globally.
  • African music revenue is predicted to reach $40 million by 2023.
  • The world music industry generated income of approximately 21.6 billion USD in 2020.
  • Approximately 60,000 songs are uploaded to Spotify every day.
  • Physical music medium sales reached 27.5% of all global music revenues creating $4.4 billion in 2020.
  • Warner Music Group made a revenue of around 4.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2020.
  • Top 10 successful music markets includes the US, Japan, UK, Germany, France, South Korea, China, Australia, Canada, Brazil (order as of 2020).
  • Independent artists generated over $2 billion in 2020.
  • There are an estimated 1,300 record labels in the United States.
  • Revenue of the live music sector is expected to increase to over 31 billion U.S. dollars by 2023.
  • Streaming is the most popular method of music consumption in Germany, with about 49% of the population listening to music this way.
  • Music piracy is declining with 38% of consumers obtaining music through infringement in the US in 2018, compared to 53% in 2013.

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The Latest Music Recording Industry Statistics Explained

The global recorded music market grew by 7.4% in 2020.

The statistic “The global recorded music market grew by 7.4% in 2020” indicates that the total revenue generated by the recorded music industry worldwide experienced a 7.4% increase compared to the previous year. This growth suggests a positive trend in the industry, despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic and economic uncertainty in 2020. Factors such as increased streaming subscriptions, digital music consumption, and innovative marketing strategies may have contributed to this growth. Overall, this statistic reflects the resilience and adaptability of the recorded music market in response to changing consumer behaviors and market dynamics.

The total revenues for the U.S. recorded music industry was $12.15 billion in 2020.

The statistic states that the total revenues generated by the U.S. recorded music industry in 2020 amounted to $12.15 billion. This figure indicates the total amount of money generated from various sources such as music sales, streaming services, licensing deals, and live performances within the industry during the course of the year. The statistic provides insight into the overall financial performance and economic significance of the U.S. recorded music industry in 2020, reflecting the level of consumer demand, market trends, and the industry’s contribution to the economy. This information can be used by stakeholders, policymakers, and analysts to assess the industry’s health, competitiveness, and potential growth opportunities.

Streaming services made up 83% of total music industry revenue in 2020 in the United States.

The statistic indicates that streaming services accounted for a significant portion, specifically 83%, of the total revenue generated within the music industry in the United States in 2020. This suggests that streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music have become the predominant method of consuming music, surpassing traditional revenue streams like physical album sales and digital downloads. The shift towards streaming platforms highlights the changing landscape of the music industry, reflecting evolving consumer preferences towards convenient and accessible music consumption. This statistic also emphasizes the importance of adapting to digital trends and technologies within the music industry to remain competitive and sustainable.

The total number of paid music subscribers in the US was 75.5 million in 2020.

The statistic ‘The total number of paid music subscribers in the US was 75.5 million in 2020’ represents the aggregate figure of individuals who were actively paying for music streaming services in the United States during the year 2020. This statistic encapsulates the extent to which consumers in the US have embraced digital music consumption through paid subscription models, indicating a shift from traditional music purchasing methods. The significant figure of 75.5 million subscribers underscores the popularity and widespread adoption of music streaming platforms in the US market, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and the increasing dominance of digital services in the entertainment industry.

Vinyl record sales have grown 28.7% to $619.6 million in 2020, the highest level since 1988 in the US.

The statistic indicates that there has been a significant increase in the sales of vinyl records in the United States in 2020, with a growth rate of 28.7% compared to the previous year, reaching a total of $619.6 million. This marks the highest level of vinyl record sales in the US since 1988. The resurgence of vinyl records reflects a growing trend of consumers rediscovering and appreciating the analog qualities and tangible experience of vinyl music media in the digital age. The increasing popularity of vinyl can be attributed to factors such as nostalgia, collectability, and the overall unique audio and aesthetic appeal that vinyl records offer to music enthusiasts.

Latin music revenues in the US were up 19% to $407 million in 2019.

The statistic “Latin music revenues in the US were up 19% to $407 million in 2019” indicates that there was a notable increase in the total revenue generated from Latin music in the US in 2019 compared to the previous year. Specifically, the revenue grew by a significant 19% to reach a total of $407 million. This suggests a strong positive trend in the popularity and commercial success of Latin music within the US market during that year. Factors such as the growing influence of Latin music artists, increased streaming and digital sales, as well as successful marketing and collaborations may have contributed to this uptick in revenue.

In 2019, the music industry contributed £5.2 billion to the UK economy.

The statistic “In 2019, the music industry contributed £5.2 billion to the UK economy” represents the total monetary value generated by the music industry in the UK during the specified year. This figure includes revenue generated through various activities within the music industry, such as music sales, concerts, licensing fees, and merchandise sales. The substantial contribution of £5.2 billion indicates the significant economic impact of the music industry on the UK economy, highlighting its importance as a key sector for generating income, creating jobs, and attracting investment. This statistic also suggests the potential for further growth and development within the music industry, underscoring its value as a major economic driver in the UK.

China’s recorded music revenues grew by 16% in 2020, ranking seventh globally.

The statistic states that China’s recorded music revenues experienced a 16% growth in 2020, placing the country as the seventh highest in terms of music revenue globally. This indicates a significant increase in the amount of money generated from the sales and streaming of music within the Chinese market. The growth in revenue suggests a rising interest in music consumption within China, likely due to factors such as the increasing popularity of digital streaming platforms and the growing middle-class population. The ranking of seventh globally positions China as a key player in the music industry, reflecting the country’s potential to further contribute to the global music market in the future.

African music revenue is predicted to reach $40 million by 2023.

The statistic “African music revenue is predicted to reach $40 million by 2023” indicates that the total revenue generated by the African music industry is expected to grow and reach $40 million by the year 2023. This prediction suggests a positive outlook for the African music market, with an anticipation of increased sales, streaming revenues, and other income sources related to the music industry on the continent. The growth in revenue could be attributed to factors such as the rising global interest in African music, the emergence of new talent, and advancements in technology that enhance music distribution and consumption. Overall, the statistic highlights the potential for economic growth and cultural impact within the African music sector in the coming years.

The world music industry generated income of approximately 21.6 billion USD in 2020.

The statistic that the world music industry generated income of approximately 21.6 billion USD in 2020 indicates the total revenue generated by the global music industry in that year. This figure represents the combined income from various sources within the industry, including music sales, streaming services, concerts, merchandise, licensing, and more. The sizeable amount of 21.6 billion USD reflects the economic significance of the music industry on a global scale and highlights the continued popularity and consumption of music across different platforms and formats. This statistic serves as a key indicator of the industry’s financial health and provides insights into the increasing impact of music on the global economy.

Approximately 60,000 songs are uploaded to Spotify every day.

The statistic that approximately 60,000 songs are uploaded to Spotify every day indicates the high volume of new music being added to the platform on a daily basis. This rate of song uploads highlights the sheer quantity and diversity of musical content available to Spotify users, reflecting the platform’s role as a leading streaming service for artists and listeners. The data point underscores the competitive nature of the music industry, where artists and record labels continually strive to reach audiences and gain exposure through online platforms like Spotify. Overall, this statistic underscores the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the music streaming landscape.

Physical music medium sales reached 27.5% of all global music revenues creating $4.4 billion in 2020.

The statistic indicates that physical music mediums, such as CDs and vinyl records, accounted for 27.5% of total global music revenues in the year 2020, generating a total revenue of $4.4 billion. This suggests that physical formats continue to be a significant source of revenue in the music industry, despite the rise of digital streaming platforms. The fact that physical mediums still command a sizeable portion of the market highlights the enduring appeal and importance of physical music products to a significant portion of consumers. It also indicates that there remains a market for physical music products alongside digital formats, contributing to the diversification of revenue streams in the music industry.

Warner Music Group made a revenue of around 4.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2020.

The statistic “Warner Music Group made a revenue of around 4.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2020” indicates the total amount of money generated by the company during the year 2020. This revenue figure reflects the income generated from various sources such as music sales, streaming services, licensing deals, and other business activities conducted by Warner Music Group. The revenue of 4.5 billion U.S. dollars signifies the financial performance and scale of the company’s operations in the music industry during that particular year, highlighting its position among the leading players in the global music market.

Top 10 successful music markets includes the US, Japan, UK, Germany, France, South Korea, China, Australia, Canada, Brazil (order as of 2020).

The statistic indicates the top 10 successful music markets based on factors such as industry revenue, music consumption, and popularity of artists as of 2020. In this order, the top 10 music markets are the US, Japan, UK, Germany, France, South Korea, China, Australia, Canada, and Brazil. These countries are known for their thriving music industries, strong consumer bases, and diverse musical cultures, which contribute to their positions as prominent players in the global music market. The ranking reflects the size of the music industry in each country, the popularity of local and international artists, as well as factors such as technological advancements, streaming services, and live music events that impact the music market.

Independent artists generated over $2 billion in 2020.

The statistic ‘Independent artists generated over $2 billion in 2020’ indicates that artists who are not affiliated with major record labels or corporations collectively earned a substantial amount of revenue during that year. This suggests a growing trend of independent musicians, visual artists, writers, and other creators successfully monetizing their work through various channels such as streaming platforms, merchandise sales, live performances, and licensing deals. The significant economic impact of independent artists surpassing the $2 billion mark highlights the power of self-publishing, digital distribution, and direct engagement with fans, as well as the shift towards a more decentralized and democratized creative industry.

There are an estimated 1,300 record labels in the United States.

The statistic “There are an estimated 1,300 record labels in the United States” suggests that there is significant diversity and competition within the music industry in the country. Record labels play a crucial role in the production, promotion, and distribution of music, making this statistic reflective of the vibrant and multifaceted music landscape in the United States. The presence of 1,300 record labels points to a rich ecosystem of opportunities for artists and music enthusiasts, highlighting the industry’s dynamic nature and the various options available for artists to collaborate with labels that align with their creative vision and goals.

Revenue of the live music sector is expected to increase to over 31 billion U.S. dollars by 2023.

The statistic that revenue of the live music sector is projected to surpass 31 billion U.S. dollars by 2023 indicates a significant anticipated growth in the industry’s financial performance over the coming years. This expected increase points to a positive outlook for the live music sector, suggesting that it is poised for expansion in terms of both audience engagement and financial returns. Factors such as growing global interest in live music events, advancements in technology facilitating better production and ticket sales, and the potential for artists to leverage multiple revenue streams could contribute to this optimistic forecast. Overall, this statistic suggests that the live music sector is on track for substantial growth and evolution in the near future, presenting promising opportunities for stakeholders within the industry.

Streaming is the most popular method of music consumption in Germany, with about 49% of the population listening to music this way.

The statistic reveals that streaming is the predominant method of music consumption in Germany, with approximately 49% of the population using this platform to listen to music. This indicates a significant shift in consumer behavior towards digital streaming services over traditional formats like CD or vinyl. The popularity of streaming can be attributed to its convenience, accessibility, and vast library of music offerings. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that streaming will continue to grow as the primary mode of music consumption in Germany and around the world, shaping the future of the music industry.

Music piracy is declining with 38% of consumers obtaining music through infringement in the US in 2018, compared to 53% in 2013.

The statistic indicates a decline in music piracy among consumers in the United States from 53% in 2013 to 38% in 2018. This suggests a positive trend towards decreasing copyright infringement within the music industry over the five-year period. The decline may be attributed to various factors such as the availability of legal streaming services, increased enforcement of intellectual property laws, and shifting consumer attitudes towards piracy. Overall, the decrease in music piracy rates signifies a potential shift towards more legitimate and legal means of accessing music content among consumers in the US.

Conclusion

After analyzing the various statistics and trends in the music recording industry, it is evident that the industry is constantly evolving and adapting to new technologies and consumer preferences. Despite challenges such as piracy and streaming services, the industry continues to thrive through innovative strategies and collaborations. As technology continues to advance, it will be fascinating to see how the music recording industry continues to grow and shape the future of music consumption.

References

0. – https://www.www.ifpi.org

1. – https://www.www.musicbusinessworldwide.com

2. – https://www.www.dittomusic.com

3. – https://www.www.ukmusic.org

4. – https://www.www.billboard.com

5. – https://www.www.statista.com

6. – https://www.buzzsonic.com

7. – https://www.www.nme.com

8. – https://www.www.riaa.com

9. – https://www.artists.spotify.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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