Compared to the 2010, digital album sales have increased by over 15%. But you knew that already, didn't you? What you probably didn't know was why? Yes you can accredit the uptick on the closing of the digital divide, but according to Nielsen Soundscan the digital music turnaround can be, at least partly, attributed to four guys named Paul, John, Ringo, and George.
A new report released by Nielsen showed that through May 8 of this year, digital music sales have grown by 12.4%, with a rise in catalog album sales cited as a major cause. And which major band finally allowed its catalog to be sold digitally? Yep, the Beatles.
"Catalog album sales are up 5.4 percent in 2011, thanks in part to a long-awaited 2010 deal allowing digital distribution of The Beatles’ albums for the first time," Nielsen said on its blog.
Also interesting was the rise in vinyl sales. Compared to the same time last year, people purchased 37% more vinyl albums. We guess people only want that old school feeling, or that new age convenience.
[Nielsen via Cult of Mac]
