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In the last two decades, the way we consume music has transformed. Gone are the days when CDs and digital downloads dominated. Now, streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal have taken center stage. This shift has democratized music access, allowing people worldwide to discover a vast array of songs with just a few clicks. However, it has also disrupted traditional music industry models, changed how artists create and release music, and even influenced live performances. The question is: Has streaming saved or ruined the music industry?
The Death of the Long Song: The Rise of the 2-Minute Hit
One of the most significant changes streaming has brought is in song length. In the past, hit songs typically lasted about 3-4 minutes, a format optimized for radio play. But streaming platforms pay artists per play, not purchase. This has made shorter songs more financially appealing. Why? Because Spotify counts a song as a “play” after just 30 seconds. Thus, a two-minute song can be played twice in the same time a four-minute song plays once, effectively doubling earnings. This has led to a rise in short, catchy tracks designed for quick, repeat listens. Artists like Lil Nas X and Olivia Rodrigo have embraced this, releasing songs barely over two minutes. Some argue this trend has reduced artistic depth, while others say it mirrors modern listeners’ shorter attention spans.
The Album Is Dead—Or Is It?
Streaming has transformed how artists view albums. Historically, albums were cohesive narratives, carefully crafted journeys. But today, playlists dominate, diminishing albums’ impact. Many artists now focus on releasing singles steadily to maintain algorithmic engagement, rather than risking a full album release. Drake exemplifies this with long, stream-maximizing albums, yet some artists push back. Beyoncé’s and Kendrick Lamar’s recent works were designed as complete albums, showing there’s still a desire for cohesive works, just in a new form.
Live Music: The Streaming Backlash?
Ironically, while streaming has devalued recorded music, it has made live performances more critical. With streaming royalties low, musicians rely heavily on tours and festivals for income. This has led to a boom in live performances, but ticket prices have soared as artists try to recoup lost revenue, frustrating fans. Taylor Swift’s and Beyoncé’s tours highlight live music’s power in the streaming era, but not all fans can afford escalating prices. Additionally, streaming influences setlists, as the most-streamed songs, often take precedence, reducing spontaneity in live shows.
The Verdict: A Blessing or a Curse?
Streaming has undeniably revolutionized the music industry, yet whether it’s for better or worse is subjective. It has democratized access, giving independent artists exposure without needing record labels. It also offers unprecedented access to a vast music library, making discovery easier. Conversely, it encourages formulaic songwriting, diminishes the album as an art form, and pushes musicians towards exhausting tour schedules for financial stability. Whether streaming is a savior or a curse remains debated, but its impact is irreversible.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
