Downloads account for increase in music sales

Figures out today by the BPI show that although music sales continue to fall,there are signs that the digital market is finally starting to deliver.

2009 saw 16.1m digital albums sold in the UK representing 12.5 per cent of the albums market and saw the singles market recording its best year with 152.7m singles sold, up 32.7 per cent on 2008 and over 98 per cent were downloads.

The year started badly with the demise of Zaavi and Woolworths but a healthy stream of releases sustained UK album sales, with big sellers coming from Susan Boyle, Lady Gaga, Michael Buble, Kings of Leon, Black Eyed Peas, JLS, Robbie Williams and Paolo Nutini.

Geoff Taylor, BPI Chief Executive, said

As the way in which consumers find and purchase music continues to evolve, it is vital that music companies can continue to invest in new artists and support new digital services. Meaningful action to tackle online piracy is more critical than ever before. Without it, investment in new services and new music will be stifled.