MUMBAI: A new consumer survey conducted by The NPD Group for the National Association of Recording Merchandisers (NARM) and AARP shows that baby boomers (born between 1941 and 1964) account for one-third of all CD sales in the US. The report refutes common assumptions that interest in music wanes among a more mature audience. Most baby boomers surveyed listen to music while driving, and nearly half the respondents expressed interest in buying new compilations from their favourite artists or genre. 68 per cent purchase only CDs, but 26 per cent purchase both digital music and CDs, while just six per cent purchase only digital music downloads.

Nearly 40 per cent of boomers report that they regularly visit the music retailers or the music section of retail stores.

This report goes a long way to show just how much the music industry depends on the baby boomer consumer. They are deeply connected to the music they grew up with, continually seek new artists, and are open to the latest digital delivery channels, says the report.

NPD Group, Entertainment industry analyst, Russ Crupnick said, "Most baby boomers are still buying only CDs,but many have also begun to add digital tracks and subscriptions to their music-buying mix."