In Episode 21 of The Indie Unplugged, B. Vaughan is joined by Tye Huntley, Jay Fooley, and Yohance for an in-depth conversation about the evolving music industry. This episode explores how the rise of streamers, changes in traditional music business models, and the challenges of sustaining long-term artist success are reshaping the landscape for creators.
The discussion kicks off with "How Streamers Control the Music Industry," examining whether platforms like YouTube and Twitch have become the new gatekeepers. Are streamers the key to breaking new artists, or are they simply exploiting musicians for their own growth?
Next, the hosts tackle the controversial idea of "The Death of the Music Industry." Is the industry as we once knew it truly gone, or is it evolving into something entirely new? From the rise of DIY artists to declining album sales, they explore what these shifts mean for indie creators and whether streaming platforms are helping or hurting the industry.
The conversation moves to "Why Don’t New Artists Last Anymore?" They analyze why so many rising stars struggle to sustain their success. Are streaming algorithms and social media prioritizing virality over artistry? Are labels and audiences to blame, or is it simply a new era of short-term gratification?
Finally, they explore the role of tech moguls like Spotify’s Daniel Ek in shaping the industry with "How Spotify’s Daniel Ek Cashed In on the Music Industry." While Spotify transformed how we consume music, artists often struggle to earn a living. The guests discuss the implications of Ek’s massive earnings and whether the platform’s business model can ever be fair to creators.
This episode is packed with actionable insights, sharp critiques, and engaging discussions perfect for indie artists, producers, and music enthusiasts.
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