Global Recorded Music Revenue Continues Growth Streak, Reaching $31.7 Billion in 2025

The global recorded music industry continued its impressive growth trajectory in 2025, marking the eleventh consecutive year of increases. Total revenues reached US$31.7 billion, a 6.4% rise from the previous year, according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) Global Music Report 2026.

Streaming Remains the Dominant Force

The primary driver of this growth remains engagement with paid streaming services. Revenue from streaming grew by 8.8% in 2025, now accounting for 52.4% of global recorded music revenues. The number of paid streaming subscription accounts has climbed to 837 million, demonstrating the continued consumer shift towards access-based music consumption.

Record Companies Lead AI Innovation

Record companies are actively involved in developing music licensing models for Artificial Intelligence (AI), aiming to create a sustainable ecosystem where AI and human artistry can coexist and generate revenue opportunities for artists. The IFPI report highlights their proactive engagement in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Combating Streaming Fraud

The industry is facing a growing threat from streaming fraud, where artificially generated plays inflate numbers for manipulated or fake content, diverting revenue from legitimate artists and rights holders. Record companies are taking robust action to address this issue and are calling for collaboration across the entire streaming value chain to prevent, detect and combat fraudulent activity.

Regional Growth

The report indicates that every region globally experienced growth in recorded music revenues, demonstrating the widespread appeal and accessibility of music in the digital age.

Looking Ahead

The IFPI emphasizes the importance of continued collaboration and innovation within the music ecosystem to support artists and ensure the sustainable growth of the industry. The responsible application of new technologies, particularly AI, and a unified response to streaming fraud will be crucial in shaping the future of music.