Gen Z listens to the most vinyl, CDs, and cassettes, survey finds

According to a survey run by Key Production, Gen Z listens to more Vinyl/Records and other physical mediums than any other generation

Based on a survey by Key Production, the UK’s largest vinyl packaging company, Gen Z listens to the most music on physical media. In practical terms, this means that 59% of 18-24-year-olds surveyed said they listen to music in this way.

As Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production, described the findings: “It’s hugely promising to see younger generations listening to physical music. We know vinyl and CDs are popular again but it’s encouraging that it’s not the generations who grew up with them! From the warmer audio quality, to the beautiful artwork and holding a physical record in your hands – buying physical music formats just can’t be matched and it makes me happy that younger people recognise this too and are embracing the analogue music experience.”

So, more than 59% of Gen Z (18-24) listen to music from at least one physical medium. In the other age groups/generations, 25-34-year-olds took the second step on the podium with 40-45% of their audience. In the other age groups/generations, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-65 all reported about 40-45% saying the same. This should not be an issue, as physical media, with their positive benefits, are the best support for artists. But perhaps it doesn’t even need to be mentioned, as the global market seems to be on an upward trend, with vinyl sales expected to reach $5.2 Billion in 2024.

Interestingly, in the same survey, 18-24-year-olds were the most likely to say that they would pay a small premium on buying vinyl LPs if it reduced their impact on the planet. The same proportion was 54% among 25-34-year-olds, 45% among 35-44 and 45-54-year-olds and 41% among 55-65-year-olds.