Putumayo World Music Says Farewell to CD Era, Embraces Digital Future
As one era ends, Putumayo’s journey into the digital age keeps its message of peace and diversity alive.
As one era ends, Putumayo’s journey into the digital age keeps its message of peace and diversity alive.
After more than three decades of connecting the world through music, Putumayo World Music — the label synonymous with world culture and global sounds — has announced it will end the sale of physical CDs by December 31, 2025, marking the close of a landmark chapter in its storied history.
Founded in 1993 by Dan Storper, Putumayo became a cultural icon, known for its vibrant illustrated album covers by British artist Nicola Heindl, its richly detailed liner notes, and an unwavering commitment to curating sounds that celebrated the world’s musical diversity. Over 250 albums later, the label’s name remains synonymous with the idea of travel through sound — crossing borders with music from every continent.
Following Storper’s passing in May, the Putumayo team has carried forward his wish to usher the label fully into the digital age. In alignment with that vision, the company is winding down CD sales across all platforms — including its website, Bandcamp, and Amazon — while expanding its presence online through streaming and subscription models.
Between now and the end of 2025, collectors and longtime fans have a final opportunity to purchase Putumayo’s last 18 CD titles, available for $10–$10.95 each, with free U.S. shipping on orders over $25. International customers are encouraged to purchase through Bandcamp, where Putumayo also hosts its growing digital library.
As part of its new direction, Putumayo will release two new digital-only albums every month. Fans can subscribe via Bandcamp for 50% off ($9.95/month) to receive the latest global compilations and thematic playlists. The label’s catalogue also continues to live on across major streaming platforms — where listeners can follow Putumayo’s artist profile and explore curated playlists celebrating world culture, travel, and tradition.
“Saying goodbye to the CDs that built Putumayo is not easy,” the Putumayo team wrote. “But Dan’s legacy will live on through Putumayo’s digital future. This sale marks the end of an era and the final chance to own these CDs.”
Reflecting on Putumayo’s enduring impact, Monica Tong, Head of Asia Editorial at Music Press Asia, commented:
“Putumayo’s sound celebrates peace by opening us all to how diversity is power — not division. It reminds us that music’s truest essence is to connect, not separate. That vision has never felt more relevant.”
For the millions who have discovered the world through Putumayo’s melodies — from African rhythms and Latin grooves to folk traditions and global fusion — this marks both a nostalgic farewell and a hopeful new beginning.
As Putumayo moves forward, it continues to expand its digital offerings with fresh, globally inspired releases. Its latest album, Instrumental Odyssey – A Global Journey of Rhythm and Melody, is a captivating collection of contemporary instrumental tracks from around the world. This carefully curated selection from Putumayo Discovery features ten compelling instrumental works by emerging artists from Latin America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
From soulful guitar lines to intricate sitar patterns, lilting accordion melodies, and jazz-inflected horns, Instrumental Odyssey offers the perfect soundtrack for focused work, creative flow, or laid-back moments of cultural discovery.
Featured Artists:
Danzón Brothers (Peru / Greece)
Laurent Bardainne & Tigre d’Eau Douce (France)
HOEHN (Switzerland)
Youthie & Macca Dread (France)
Simon Chenet (France)
Rão Kyao (Portugal)
The Touré-Raichel Collective (Mali / Israel)
Eyal Luman (Israel)
Flash Sitar (Pakistan)
Wouter en De Draak (The Netherlands)
Visit putumayo.com or Putumayo’s Bandcamp page to learn more and explore the label’s digital evolution.
