Recorded music revenue slowed in the first half of 2025, compared to the previous year (H1 2024.) This measurement from MIDiA Research in its first mid-year recorded music model. (See this datum HERE.)
Global recorded music revenues, inclusive of expanded rights, grew to $18.3 billion in the first half of 2025, with streaming continuing to increase its share of revenues. Impressive yes, but MIDiA buffers enthusiasm by emphasizing that market growth is slowing:
“H1 2025’s 5.9% growth [was] slower than in the first halves of both 2023 and 2024. Significantly, growth not only slowed in percentage terms, the absolute amount of revenue added was also smaller.” –MIDiA Research
Other measurement categories also grew; MIDiA calls out labels, publishers, DSPs, and live concert revenue. “Some areas of the music business are enjoying significantly stronger growth than others, namely music publishers and DSPs,” MIDiA states.
