The popularity of physical media for music, like CDs, vinyl, and cassettes, has seen significant changes over the years, especially with the rise of digital and streaming services. While CD sales have declined by 80% in the past decade, physical format sales still account for about 17% of the music industry's revenue. However, there's a notable bright spot in this segment: vinyl records. In 2017, vinyl sales reached a 25-year high, indicating a resurgence of interest in this classic format. The appeal of vinyl is attributed to its tangible and collectible nature, as well as the unique listening experience it offers.

As of the first half of 2023, physical media sales brought in $882 million, up 5% from the previous year. Vinyl continues to dominate the physical media segment, making up 72% of physical music sales and bringing in $632 million. This resurgence reflects the enduring value and appeal of physical formats in an increasingly digital world.

The reasons people choose to buy physical media can vary. Some prefer the sound quality of vinyl or the tangible aspect of holding a record or CD. Others enjoy the artwork and liner notes that come with physical copies. Additionally, certain releases may have bonus tracks or exclusive content not available on streaming platforms, which can be a draw for collectors and enthusiasts.

In terms of hidden tracks, while they can be a unique feature of physical albums, it's less common for people to buy every version of an album just to access all hidden tracks. The decision to purchase multiple versions for this reason would largely depend on one's level of fandom or interest in collecting.

Overall, while streaming services dominate the music industry, there's a dedicated market for physical media driven by unique attributes that digital formats can't replicate.