SEARCH DATE RANGE

SEARCH TERM OR WORD

Vinyl and CDs continue to live on with nearly half of Gen A listening to physical music records

 

  • Survey conducted by Key Production reveals that nearly half of Generation Alpha listen to CDs and they know how to use CD and record players 

  • Record-breaking 2024 physical music sales were in-part driven by Gen Z, but Gen Alpha are embracing physical too

  • Findings suggest a wider cultural shift towards screen-free listening, with just 1 in 5 parents preferring their children to listen to music via a smartphone, rather than on CD or vinyl

 

A recent survey exploring music listening and buying behaviour has revealed that interest in physical music is extending beyond Generation Z (17-28 year-olds), with Generation Alpha (1-16 year-olds) now embracing physical music too - listening to vinyl, CDs and cassettes.

Research of over 2,000 respondents across the UK¹, conducted by Key Production, Europe’s leading bespoke physical music and packaging manufacturing agency, found that nearly half (46 per cent) of Generation Alpha are listening to physical music. The findings also revealed that over half (53 per cent) of Gen A know how to use a CD player, with 46 per cent of parents confirming that their child or children of up to 18 years-old listen to CDs. Furthermore, when asked about vinyl, nearly 4 in 10 (38 per cent) parents said that their child listens to vinyl, with 36 per cent of them saying that they can use a record player. 

These insights follow a landmark year for physical music sales. In January, UK record labels association the BPI reported that purchases of physical music in 2024 had shown positive year-on-year growth (1.4%) for the first time in two decades, led by a 17th consecutive annual rise in vinyl album sales (9.1%) and a marked slowing in the decline in demand for CD (-2.9%), as younger consumers showed growing signs of embracing both formats². 2025 also marked the most successful year for Record Store Day³. While Generation Z has played a pivotal role in this resurgence, with artists such as Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish and Charli XCX driving physical sales, the latest insights suggest that physical formats are continuing to grow in popularity among younger audiences too. 

Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production, said, In an age dominated by streaming, it’s the younger generations who are continuing to drive the demand for physical music. Vinyl is more popular than ever, and it’s clear here there’s an appetite for CDs — fuelled by youthful enthusiasm. For many of these young listeners, physical music offers something digital formats can’t: a sense of authenticity, ownership, and emotional connection. It turns music into a tangible experience—something to hold, display, collect, and connect with on a deeper level. It is more than a passing trend; it reflects a deeper cultural shift. Physical music is no longer considered a relic of the past—it’s firmly part of the future, and it’s here to stay.”

What’s more - the findings suggest parental influence is also having an impact. Just 1 in 5 parents (20 per cent) prefer their children listen to music via a smartphone, rather than on CD or vinyl, suggesting a wider cultural shift towards screen-free listening. The findings fit within a broader, ongoing conversation about children and technology that has been highlighted, once again, off the back of the hit Netflix show Adolescence. 

The survey also found that physical music is being used as a form of digital detox across all generations, with 71 per cent of Generation Z, and 75 per cent of Millennials suggesting they choose listening to physical music to help them reduce their screen time. Results also show that interestingly, how people receive physical music is stable across the generations from either acquiring them from friends or inheriting them from family. Nearly three in ten (27 per cent) of Gen Zer’s receive physical music from friends and nearly 15 per cent across Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X inherit some of their collection.  

Dr Jo Twist OBE, CEO of UK record labels association, the BPI, said: "The BPI’s own analysis of market trends supports these latest findings in highlighting the enduring appeal of recorded music across all formats and with all generations. It’s wonderful to see the next wave of music fans already developing a love of vinyl and an appreciation of CD, that, sitting alongside streaming, is part of the amazing choice in music discovery and listening that we now all enjoy as dedicated fans.”   

Overall, more than four in five (61 per cent) of all survey respondents agreed that vinyl offers a different listening experience to streaming, suggesting the appetite for physical music has taken root, and will continue on an upward trajectory, solidifying itself across generations and generations. 

Key Production is a certified B Corp and works with music industry bodies ensuring the best practices for sustainability within physical music production are met throughout the whole supply chain. Founded in 1990, the London-based company is best known for its work with artists such as Nick Cave, Alt-J, IDLES, Little Simz, Ezra Collective, PJ Harvey and Raye on her BRIT Award winning album - amongst many more.

For more information, visit keyproduction.co.uk.

29 Aug 2025 | Press release

BMG achieves all-time high EBITDA margin in first half 2025

  BMG has reported a solid financial performance for the first half of 2025, highlighted by a strong EBITDA margin of 29%, an increase of 2%-points compared to H1 2024. This growth was driven by a more profitable business mix, resulting from a...more

29 Aug 2025 | Press release

The Featured Artists Coalition (FAC) announces free ARTIST DAY events in Bristol, Newcastle, Leicester and Leeds

  The one-day events will encourage artists in each city to come together alongside established artists, to share experiences and knowledge, and receive tips from music businesses and industry experts The 2025 ARTIST DAY series kicks off at Bristol Beacon on Saturday...more

29 Aug 2025 | Press release

Singer-songwriter MOLIY has signed a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music

Singer-songwriter MOLIY has signed a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music, the music publishing arm of Warner Music Group, covering her catalogue and future works.   MOLIY first found success in 2020 when her debut EP Wondergirl received airplay in her home country...more

29 Aug 2025 | Press release

Beatport - The World's Largest Music Store for DJs - In partnership with Warner Music Group, announces Global Remix Challenge for Madonna's Iconic 'Ray of Light'

Producers worldwide are invited to reimagine one of pop music's most groundbreaking electronic records, originally produced by Madonna and William Orbit.   The grand prize, worth over $12,000, includes cutting-edge production hardware, premium software, and a signed vinyl from Madonna herself. Beatport, Warner Music...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

Music icons named to lead NewcastleGateshead Music City board

  Ambitious Music City plan to grow the North East music industry, backed by landmark research project, reveals £360m+ economic potential   Initiative backed by North Shields’ BRIT Award-winning artist Sam Fender   Full research report to be published later in 2025     Two of the most influential and...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

UK management company PARADE expands to North America following signings of Jamie Woon and Berwyn

  Parade, founded by Leon Wright, have recently added Jamie Woon and Berwyn to their roster. Loies Kim will co-lead the London-based company’s NYC office. London-based management company Parade has announced an expansion into North America. Founded by Leon Wright in 2023, Parade has...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

The Cat's Mother Network teams up with UTA for 'Breaking Into Live' event

The Cat's Mother Network teams up with UTA for 'Breaking Into Live' event on Tuesday 2nd September Exclusive evening of insight and connection in partnership with UTA’s La Femme Majeure group to support young female identifying people looking to develop career...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

PRS Members' Fund and Music Support launch Soul Resonance

PRS Members' Fund and Music Support launch Soul Resonance – a unique wellness day designed to support music creatives through rest, reflection, creativity, and connection. PRS Members’ Fund, the charity that provides funding to PRS songwriters and composers during difficult...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

Italian music market: Growth by 10% in the first half of 2025

All the data from the Italian Federation (FIMI), from the strong rooting of Streaming to the confirmation of Vinyl    The Italian music market has seen solid growth in the first half of 2025, with a turnover of over €208 million, up 9.7% thanks to...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

Layton Giordani Unveils New York-Based Label: MADMINDS

Launching in tandem with Armada Music, Giordani’s NYC roots heavily influence the new label Amid a landmark year, renowned DJ, producer and New York City-native Layton Giordani today announced the launch of his label MADMINDS, in partnership with Armada Music. The sonic ethos of MADMINDS...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

Beatoven.ai Unveils Maestro, the Largest Fully Licensed Generative AI Model for Music that Pays Artists for Every Output

In contrast to other AI music licensing deals, this model will result in ongoing royalty payments to artists, composers, and rightsholders Beatoven.ai is announcing Maestro, its new generative AI foundation model for music. It’s the first such model to be fully licensed...more

28 Aug 2025 | Press release

Pure Dance returns to the airwaves after 18 years

Iconic 2000s dance station relaunches on small-scale DAB in Milton Keynes and Loughborough this September Pure Dance, the independent station that became a household name on Sky Digital in the mid-2000s, is returning to the airwaves this September with launches on...more

27 Aug 2025 | Press release

Closures in Britain's late-night venues reach all-time high with one in four businesses lost since 2020

  26.4% drop in late-night venues since March 2020 Nearly 800 late night venues closed in five years Three net closures a week in the last three months The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has raised concern about the contraction in Britain’s nightlife scene...more

27 Aug 2025 | Press release

Latin American creators and industry leaders rally behind JusticIA campaign

Over 30 organisations call on policymakers to uphold, protect and preserve the intellectual property rights of authors, artists, producers and publishers    A coalition of 35 creative and cultural organisations across Latin America have today issued a joint statement urging governments, technology...more

27 Aug 2025 | Press release

TikTok for Artists launches in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa and Finland

TikTok for Artists is the new all-in-one music insights platform for artists  TikTok for Artists has been designed to help artists build their careers and fanbase on TikTok Artists in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa and Finland can now access data and...more

27 Aug 2025 | Press release

Vocana: A home for music's beating indie heart that pays, informs, and connects artists and fans better

  Streaming music feels broken. What would make it better? Many music lovers already know the answer: Artists getting paid more. Fans finding more new music. More interaction and sharing. More humans, fewer algos. These responses have shaped Vocana, a new music service...more

27 Aug 2025 | Press release

Newcastle to come alive for the 2025 Mercury Prize

POWERED BY LOCAL MUSIC AGENCY GENERATOR, THE CITY WILL BE A HUB OF MUSIC AND CULTURE THIS OCTOBER WITH FRINGE PROGRAMME PLUS EXCITING ACTIVITY FROM NEW PARTNERS LNER, ADIDAS, FENWICK AND MORE 2025 HOSTS AND JUDGING PANEL ALSO ANNOUNCED 2025 'ALBUMS OF THE...more

26 Aug 2025 | Press release

Amuse Unveils Notable Product Updates, Including Auto-Save Links and Trolley-Powered Business Payouts for Professional Plan

Announcing new premium features and partnerships for self-releasing artists and teams, including Trolley business payouts, Easy Song cover licensing and amra publishing royalty management Music industry challenger Amuse today announces a big update to their self-service digital music distribution, introducing a...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

Ticketmaster's 2025 State of Play report reveals a multigenerational shift

73% of parents say music festivals beat traditional family trips - Ticketmaster’s 2025 State of Play report reveals a multigenerational shift   - New findings by Ticketmaster outline the shift in festival trends and culture, as it launches its 2025 State of Play Report - Two-thirds...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

Legends of Football Appoints PPL CEO Peter Leathem OBE as New Chair

  Legends of Football are delighted to announce that Peter Leathem OBE has agreed to take over as Chair from Geoff Shreeves with immediate effect. As CEO of PPL (Phonographic Performance Limited), Peter is without doubt both one of the most...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

ERA extends membership to wider entertainment industry

ERA adds a host of new benefits to its affiliate membership scheme     Digital entertainment and retail association ERA has opened membership to the wider entertainment industry for the first time in response to growing demand for its insight, analysis and event...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

Security Industry Crackdown Begins - Government Clearly Signal an End to Exploitation & Self-Employment Abuse Says Sector Trade Bodies

NO MORE EXCUSES: Security Industry Crackdown Begins - Government Clearly Signal an End to Exploitation & Self-Employment Abuse Says Sector Trade Bodies   Issued by the UK Door Security Association (UKDSA), Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), International Professional Security Association (IPSA) &...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

Noctil Launches OrgLink: Hierarchical Account Structuring for Smarter Metadata Governance

Noctil, the leading no-code metadata platform for the music and audiovisual industries, has launched OrgLink: a powerful new feature enabling flexible organizational hierarchies and secure, policy-based data sharing. Designed for complex ecosystems such as record labels, publishers, performance rights organizations, and...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

Virgin Music Group Partners with Independent Label Mom+Pop Music

Acclaimed independent label Mom+Pop Music and Virgin Music Group, the world’s leading partner to independent artists, labels, and entrepreneurs, today announced a global partnership to support the continued growth of Mom+Pop. The label is wholly owned and operated by founder...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

Spotify and amra have entered into a direct multi-territorial, multi-year licensing agreement

Spotify and amra, the world’s first and only global digital licensing collection society, have entered into a direct multi-territorial, multi-year licensing agreement designed to deliver greater flexibility and value to amra’s songwriter and publisher clients. The deal represents a broad...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

Youtube and Bandsintown launch exclusive concert listings partnership to turn viewers into concertgoers

New Bandsintown Integration Brings Live Music Discovery Directly Into YouTube Videos, Shorts, and Artist Channels for Billions of Users Worldwide Partnership Kicks Off with Pop Icon Sabrina Carpenter as the Featured Artist   Bandsintown, the leading global live music discovery platform, has become the...more

22 Aug 2025 | Press release

DJ Awards announce 2025 nominees and brand new categories

Voting for the 2025 edition of the DJ Awards is now open  The DJ Awards is the longest-standing celebration of global electronic music culture and it now unveils the 2025 genre-specific, voted for categories and nominees alongside the public voting launch...more

21 Aug 2025 | Press release

IFPI CEO Victoria Oakley urges action to secure India's music future

  IFPI Chief Executive Victoria Oakley told the All About Music conference in Mumbai today that India's music industry has "extraordinary potential" to drive the next wave of global growth but must tackle key challenges to secure its future.In a keynote speech to...more

21 Aug 2025 | Press release

Inflation Rises to 3.8% in July - NTIA Warns There is No More Fat to Trim - The Sector is Facing Job and Business Losses

Michael Kill, CEO, Night Time Industries Association “Today’s inflation figures, with prices rising to 3.8 per cent in July, underscore the relentless pressure on the UK’s night-time economy. Hospitality and night time economy businesses are facing sharply higher costs for food,...more

21 Aug 2025 | Press release

Small Pond announce 'Emerging' initiative release

Small Pond is excited to announce that their “Emerging” project is back for 2025. The initiative is giving 20 talented young acts (aged 16-25) in Brighton, Crawley, and surrounding areas, the opportunity to rehearse, record and release their music via...more

29 Aug 2025

  • The life of a cultural narrative: Where are 2025’s iconic moments? (see Comment)

28 Aug 2025

  • Anthropic settles authors’ copyright lawsuit after piracy claims (see News)

27 Aug 2025

  • Mercury Prize details announced (see News)

  • Robbie Williams faces royalties challenge against 'Angels' (see News)

26 Aug 2025

  • Drake gets ahold of Kendrick Lamar's UMG contract as ugly 'Not Like Us' battle intensifies (see News)

  • Spotify has signalled further price rises (see Digital)

22 Aug 2025

  • The unflattening of streaming (and the case for friction) (see Comment)

21 Aug 2025

  • Ghost artists and the rise of Perfect Fit Content on streaming (see Comment)

20 Aug 2025

  • How music-backed securitisation can strike a bum note (see Comment)

19 Aug 2025

  • Taylor Swift: What we lose in the gamification of music (see Features)

18 Aug 2025

  • Is Taylor Swift’s Showgirl era set to propel her to even greater heights? (see Features)

15 Aug 2025

  • Why aren’t all songwriters being paid for their songs in live concerts? (see Comment)