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#Music #Cultural Trends
CNBC
CNBC
2w ago 33 views

Why vinyl records like Taylor Swift's 'The Life of a Showgirl' are protected from tariffs

Taylor Swift's upcoming album, 'The Life of a Showgirl,' is set to boost vinyl sales, benefiting from tariff exemptions that keep prices stable for fans.
Why vinyl records like Taylor Swift's 'The Life of a Showgirl' are protected from tariffs
A What happened
Taylor Swift's highly anticipated album, 'The Life of a Showgirl,' is set to launch with at least seven collectible vinyl variants, which are expected to significantly boost sales. The album benefits from a Cold War-era tariff exemption that keeps prices stable for consumers, a relief for fans but a point of contention for U.S. manufacturers who argue that tariffs could enhance domestic production. Vinyl records have seen a resurgence, particularly among Gen Z collectors, with vinyl accounting for nearly three-quarters of U.S. physical music revenue. Analysts predict that Swift's album could break her previous sales record, further driving the market. However, some American manufacturers express concern over missing out on business opportunities due to the tariff exemptions, advocating for tariffs to support local production. The growing interest in vinyl is also attributed to a desire for physical ownership among younger audiences, contrasting with the digital music landscape.

Key insights

  • 1

    Vinyl Market Growth

    Vinyl records account for nearly three-quarters of U.S. physical music revenue.

  • 2

    Gen Z Collectors

    Younger audiences are driving the resurgence of vinyl, with 60% of 18-24 year-olds listening to physical music.

  • 3

    Tariff Exemptions

    Exemptions from tariffs help maintain stable prices for vinyl records, benefiting consumers.

Takeaways

The release of Swift's album is poised to significantly impact the music industry and vinyl sales.

Read the full article on CNBC