U.S. CD sales data shows conflicting trends in 2024, with two major industry trackers reporting significantly different figures. Luminate reports a 19.1% year-over-year decline, while the RIAA indicates a 3.3% growth for H1 2024.

Key Statistics:

• Luminate data: 22.2 million CD units sold in 2024 (down 19.1% from 27.4 million in 2023)
• RIAA H1 2024 data: 16.8 million units (up 3.3% from 16.2 million in H1 2023)
• RIAA retail value: $236.7 million (up 0.3% from $236 million)

The significant discrepancy between these figures can be attributed to Luminate's methodology changes implemented in early 2024. These changes:

• Altered how independent retail store sales are tracked
• Were modified again in late April 2024
• Created challenges in making year-over-year comparisons

Billboard has acknowledged these tracking issues, noting that there's "not available comparable historical data to provide an accurate year-over-year trend regarding physical sales."

This data controversy follows similar issues with vinyl sales tracking, raising questions about:

• The accuracy of physical music sales reporting
• The impact on historical data comparison
• The need for temporary suspension of year-over-year trend reporting

The situation continues to evolve, with potential implications for how physical music sales data will be tracked and reported in the future.

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