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10 Ways AI Is Likely to Shape the Music Industry in 2025

AI Music Industry Trends

Artificial intelligence has been stealthily weaving its way into the foundations of the music industry for years. By 2025, it will be far more than a curiosity or something that only major labels can afford to experiment with. AI will likely be powering everything from the way artists record demos in their bedrooms to how fans interact with the music they love on streaming platforms, social networks, and even within live venues. It is impossible to ignore the pace at which algorithms and machine learning models are becoming part of everyday life, and music has been one of the prime beneficiaries of these technological breakthroughs.

In this piece, we will explore ten possible ways AI could shape the music world by 2025. The predictions are based on the current trajectory of technological advancements, the realities of how streaming revenues have been evolving, and the shifting dynamics between artists and fans. We will also acknowledge the role socio-political factors play in shaping the music sphere, especially as more scrutiny is placed on how machine learning is used, both ethically and creatively. There is much to celebrate in AI’s ability to democratise aspects of music creation and consumption, yet caution is required to ensure that these leaps forward do not leave independent artists behind.

While some might imagine that artificial intelligence is set to replace musicians or homogenise creative expression, that dystopian fear seems overly simplistic. At its best, AI is a tool, and like all tools, it can be applied responsibly or misapplied disastrously.

This blog will walk the line between optimism about the future and the acknowledgment that complex challenges lie ahead. Here are ten possible developments we could see by 2025 – each one capable of bringing new energy to music while simultaneously sparking crucial debates about intellectual property, fair pay, and the quality of human experiences.

  1. AI-Powered Songwriting Tools

At the moment, AI-driven platforms can generate chord progressions, melodies, and lyrics in the blink of an eye. By 2025, these systems will have become more accessible, with user-friendly interfaces allowing anyone – from seasoned composers to complete newcomers – to brainstorm ideas instantly. Smaller bands and solo artists, often strapped for resources, may find these tools especially beneficial for expanding their repertoire without needing to hire large production teams.

However, as AI-assisted songwriting grows more refined, we can expect ongoing debates regarding authenticity. Purists might argue that relying on algorithms for creative breakthroughs dilutes the human touch, while others embrace the technology as a collaborative partner that never tires or runs out of ideas. The question of intellectual property may also become more complicated. If an AI suggests a chord sequence or lyric line, who truly owns that idea, and how will royalties be split?

In 2025, these questions might trigger more robust frameworks for co-writing credits involving AI. That said, it is important to remember that the spark behind a song can come from many sources. Artists who use AI responsibly will likely be those who see it as an extension of their creative minds, rather than a shortcut to bypass the real work of emotion-driven songwriting.

  1. Personalised Listening Experiences

Algorithms already define which tracks appear on our daily playlists, but by 2025, personalisation features will probably become more dynamic, context-aware, and granular. Imagine opening your favourite music app and being recommended not only new releases that match your sonic preferences, but also tracks that reflect your current emotional state. If you tend to listen to certain genres when it’s raining outside, AI might automatically adjust your recommendations based on weather patterns or time of day.

Additionally, more advanced data collection could allow platforms to glean knowledge about your social environment. Going for a drive with friends? AI might offer a collaborative playlist tailored to suit everyone’s tastes, creating harmony instead of arguments about which genre to queue. For artists, this hyper-personalised environment may level the playing field. Niche musicians who previously struggled to reach their core audience could find themselves spotlighted on playlists curated for targeted listeners worldwide.

Still, the nuances of personal data usage will raise legitimate ethical concerns. Fans might wonder how their behavioural data is being stored and used, whether by record labels, streaming services, or tech companies. For these personalisation systems to gain trust, total transparency regarding data usage will become essential, with heightened scrutiny from regulators and consumer protection organisations.

  1. AI-Driven Marketing and Promotion

Digital marketing is hardly new, but the growth of AI stands to supercharge how labels and independent artists reach their audiences by 2025. Machine learning could substantially reduce the guesswork behind campaign planning. Instead of spending time and money on broad-stroke adverts, artists might use AI-driven insights to pinpoint exactly which segment of their audience is most responsive to a specific track.

Furthermore, AI-based algorithms may be able to automate scheduling for social media postings or create dynamic content that changes based on real-time engagement metrics. These refinements could free up creative minds to focus on making music and planning performances, rather than juggling marketing complexities. But just as we see with personalised recommendations, privacy and transparency will be major talking points. Over-reliance on data analytics could leave listeners feeling over-targeted, especially if the marketing messages become repetitive and invasive.

For smaller artists, AI-led marketing can be an invaluable edge, bridging the gap with major-label budgets by identifying precise pockets of potential fans. Nonetheless, a balanced approach is crucial; music is an emotional medium that thrives on genuine connection, so letting AI overshadow human-to-human interaction might make promotions seem forced. The best campaigns will likely combine technological precision with real passion, ensuring that fans keep their eyes on new releases without feeling as though they are being monitored by an impersonal system.

  1. Data-Driven A&R

Artist and repertoire (A&R) teams have always had the delicate job of finding the next big sound. Traditionally, this involved a fair bit of in-person gig attendance, not to mention wading through countless demo tapes. By 2025, we can expect a continued increase in data-driven A&R strategies. Instead of just scouting local scenes or waiting for submissions, record labels and independent outfits could rely on machine learning to sift through trillions of online data points, from streaming analytics to social media trends.

The promise is that algorithms will help identify undiscovered talent, picking up on early indicators like a sudden spike in local popularity or positive fan sentiment across multiple platforms. This has the potential to create more equitable opportunities, because gifted DIY artists will have as much chance of appearing on an A&R radar as someone with high-profile industry connections.

Yet over-reliance on automated processes could lead to homogeneity in the music that ultimately gets picked up. If labels focus purely on the data for immediate financial wins, we risk overshadowing more experimental or genre-defying acts that might not have the initial streaming numbers. A balanced approach would involve data analytics for preliminary discovery, coupled with traditional industry instincts and a willingness to champion artistically bold projects. In 2025, the music scene will likely be shaped by that fine interplay of numbers and nuanced human judgement.

  1. Ethical AI Implementation

The rise of AI in music creation and promotion brings with it many ethical concerns. These range from data privacy to fair compensation. As more artists rely on AI for creative input or back-end tasks, labour-related issues may surface: are engineers, producers, or studio musicians going to be replaced if AI can replicate their roles cheaply? Or will these professionals be able to pivot and find new revenue streams by learning to guide and refine AI output?

Meanwhile, the socio-political climate around AI ethics is bound to intensify. Governments, NGOs, and activist groups may demand stricter regulations and guidelines, ensuring that AI does not perpetuate bias or infringe on human rights. For instance, if an AI system inadvertently privileges male vocalists over female ones due to the data sets it was trained on, that would be ethically problematic and could result in reputational damage for the platforms involved.

In 2025, the conversation around AI in the music space should be far more nuanced, focusing on the importance of human oversight, transparent data usage, and fairness in how these technologies are deployed. The industry will have to find ways to harness AI’s potential while also preserving the integrity of artistic careers and the cultural diversity of the music that makes it to our playlists.

  1. Interactive Live Music Experiences

Live music will always hold a special place for listeners. By 2025, AI could play an integral role in making gigs and festivals more interactive. We are already seeing experiments where artists use real-time data on audience reactions to adjust setlists on the fly. In the future, more sophisticated algorithms could gauge emotional states by monitoring social media check-ins, wearable devices, or crowd cameras, allowing bands and DJs to shift styles or tempo to maintain energy in the room.

It is not just on the artist’s end either. Fans may soon have personal AI-enabled devices or apps that can request certain tracks, manage sound settings or stage visuals, and coordinate special live moments. This kind of interactive approach could help transform concerts into collaborative events, where each performance is distinct and shaped by the collective input of the crowd.

Yet such developments are not without their controversies. Privacy risks are ever-present, as facial recognition or emotional AI might cross the line into intrusive surveillance. Balancing these potential privacy violations with the desire to use data for creative expression will be an important conversation for promoters and artists alike. If done thoughtfully, live shows might become even more immersive, emphasising spontaneity and forging a stronger bond between performers and audiences.

  1. VR, AR, and AI Collaborations

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have already made small waves in the music industry, most noticeably through immersive music videos or virtual festival experiences. By 2025, these digital realms might be seamlessly coupled with AI to allow listeners to step into entire worlds that blend musical performance with digital artistry. Imagine being able to watch your favourite band from your living room through a VR headset, while AI algorithms personalise the visual environment based on your preferences.

AR could enhance in-person concerts too. Picture attending a venue where you can point your phone at the stage to see dynamic overlays, from real-time lyric translations to 3D illusions synchronised with each guitar riff. Artists might even create entire AR-driven storylines to accompany a gig. As with other technologies, these developments could bring new possibilities for independent musicians who want to produce spellbinding shows without the overheads of large crews and expensive sets.

However, there is a risk that such high-tech experiences might turn physical concerts into hyper-commercialised spectacles, overshadowing the raw authenticity of live music. The trick will be in blending these digital layers with the real-world energy that fans crave when they spend money on a live ticket. Ideally, VR and AR become additional channels for creativity, rather than gimmicks that distract from the connection between performer and attendee.

  1. A Greater Global Collaboration Network

AI is set to make international collaboration smoother and more intuitive than ever before. Already, cloud-based platforms allow band members to jam virtually, even if they are on opposite sides of the globe. By 2025, advanced machine learning tools could automatically synchronise latency issues, translate lyrics in real time, or even suggest cross-cultural musical ideas based on data from global hits.

For unsigned artists, this can be a huge boon. No longer would a musician in Nigeria struggle to collaborate with a producer in Japan simply because of differences in language, time zones, or style. By uniting artists under shared technological platforms, AI might spark a wave of cross-pollination, birthing new genres or hybrids that we cannot yet imagine. The result could be a more diverse music scene, shaped by the synergy of different cultural influences.

That being said, one potential drawback is that an overreliance on AI-driven collaborative tools might dilute regional quirks or distinctive cultural touches. If an algorithm suggests the same optimum chord progressions to everyone, we risk ending up with a standardised global sound. Balancing the strengths of wide-scale collaboration with the need to preserve originality will be a central concern. The best collaborations often come from a meeting of minds that has a healthy respect for cultural differences rather than a bland merging of styles.

  1. AI as a Conduit for Social Change

Music has always had a political edge. Whether it was protest folk in the 1960s or grime artists highlighting social issues on UK streets, songs can be a powerful vehicle for debate and reflection. By 2025, AI might magnify this, helping activists and socially conscious artists spread their messages further and faster.

If you are an artist writing protest songs, machine learning could help you identify the regions or demographic groups most in tune with your cause, giving you more leverage when coordinating campaigns or fundraising. Social media targeting, combined with streaming analytics, might help movements gain momentum at a pace unimaginable a decade ago. That said, this same technology could also be used for less admirable ends – for instance, spreading misinformation or extremist rhetoric.

In the broader socio-political context, there may be increased scrutiny of how these technologies are used to sway public opinion. Balancing freedom of speech with the prevention of harmful content could place major pressure on both platform owners and governments. If used ethically and with full transparency, AI can amplify positive change. However, the line between activism and manipulation might become razor-thin as more advanced data profiling tools emerge.

  1. Growth of Community-Centric Platforms

By 2025, many fans may be exhausted by endless scrolling on commercialised platforms that only show them mainstream content. We could see a resurgence of community-driven music spaces, where AI is integrated to facilitate discovery and interaction, rather than just pushing algorithmic recommendations. These community-centric hubs might prioritise meaningful engagement, encouraging deeper dives into a performer’s story, style, and ethos.

On such platforms, fans would have more agency. Instead of passively receiving playlists, they could collaborate in real time, curating communal playlists or voting on which underground acts deserve the spotlight. AI would then simply mediate the process, ensuring everyone’s preferences are balanced fairly. If such spaces thrive, it could pave the way for fairer revenue-sharing models, with funds directed transparently to musicians and music-related charities.

The socio-political dimension of these community platforms should not be overlooked. Artists who make music that aligns with certain causes, be they environmental or social justice-oriented, may find it easier to rally supporters. The challenge is creating an environment where such activism does not descend into echo chambers or commercial exploitation. While there is no single perfect solution, the desire for more autonomy among fans and artists is clear, and AI could be the catalyst that helps community-based models gain momentum.

Conclusion

As we look ahead to 2025, it is evident that AI will not just be a footnote in the music industry’s ongoing story. It has the potential to influence nearly every aspect of music creation, distribution, and consumption. From AI-driven songwriting tools and personalisation engines to interactive live experiences and the possibility of forging stronger global networks, the music world may become more vibrant, connected, and responsive than ever before.

At the same time, it would be naïve to imagine that these technologies will bring only positive outcomes. The socio-political context of AI raises urgent questions about bias, data privacy, and the future of artistic integrity. As these automated systems become more powerful, the debate will shift from “Can AI do that?” to “Should AI do that?” The finer details of ethical deployment will matter, especially as the industry grapples with fair compensation for artists, robust intellectual property frameworks, and the potential intrusion into personal data.

In short, 2025 might be the year in which AI’s role in music crosses a critical threshold – no longer something confined to futuristic labs, but a firmly embedded element of day-to-day musical life.

Whether you are a fan looking for the next track that matches your mood, an indie artist seeking to break through geographic barriers, or a major label executive tasked with scaling AI-driven marketing campaigns, the influence will be keenly felt.

Ultimately, the trajectory of AI in music will be determined not by cold code alone, but by the choices we make as an industry and as a society. Balancing creativity, ethical considerations, and the quest for ever-deeper listener engagement will be the difference between a fruitful AI-powered era and one in which machines merely contribute to monotony. It is up to us to harness these tools wisely, ensuring that human emotion and expression remain at the core of every song that resonates in our headphones and across live stages.

Article by Amelia Vandergast

Music Industry Demands vs. National Priorities for New Labour

Labour

Ahead of the general election, we reviewed the manifestos of each of the three major political parties to discern which political party would bring a brighter future to the music industry. Labour and the Lib Dems were almost on par with their policies, so with Labour winning the election with an overwhelming majority, it should certainly be a source of (at least thinly veiled) optimism for creatives in the UK that Starmer is residing in 10 Downing Street.

Multiple organisations, including UK Music, have wasted no time and have already called upon Starmer to address the conflating issues putting the music industry under immense pressure. However, it is far too soon to expect Kier Starmer to turn his attention to the music industry when there are many other urgent issues to address.

Economic stability, robust healthcare, and comprehensive education reform are foundational to the well-being of the nation and, indirectly, to the success of the music and creative industries. By addressing these broader issues first, the government can create a more favourable environment for the music industry to thrive in the long run. Nothing will change overnight, so while it is undoubtedly tempting for some music journalists to declare that “it’s time for the new Labour government to honour its commitment to supporting the music industry”, a little bit of realism wouldn’t go a miss, as unsurprisingly, when YouGov conducted a poll asking voters what issues will affect how they vote in the general election, the music industry didn’t get a look in.

A Summary of the Influx of Demands on the Labour Government

The current demands from the music industry are multifaceted and pressing. UK Music, representing the collective interests of the sector, has called for immediate action to reverse the decline in music education, citing the loss of 1,000 music teachers since 2012. This decline not only affects the talent pipeline but also deprives young people of the opportunity to engage with music, which can provide essential life skills. Tom Kiehl, CEO of UK Music, has highlighted the need for strong government support to navigate these challenges and leverage the opportunities that the sector offers.

Moreover, the Association of Independent Music (AIM) has underscored the importance of including music in creative tax reliefs, akin to those in film and gaming, to stimulate investment in the UK’s music scenes. They also advocate for small business opportunities in apprenticeships and responsible AI development that nurtures UK music and musicians. These measures are designed to create a sustainable environment where music businesses can thrive and scale.

In addition, the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) has emphasised the necessity of a comprehensive plan for the creative sector as part of the Labour government’s industrial strategy. This includes not only reversing the decline in music education but also fostering a robust relationship between the music industry and the government to ensure growth and stability for the sector.

Why the Music Industry Has to Wait for Major Reform

The Labour government, led by Keir Starmer, has inherited a plethora of urgent issues. The housing crisis, with its severe impact on affordability and availability, requires immediate and sustained intervention. The NHS, beleaguered by long waiting lists and staffing shortages, needs comprehensive reforms to ensure it can meet the healthcare needs of the population. Additionally, the rising levels of poverty and economic instability necessitate robust economic policies to support those most affected and to foster long-term economic growth.

Addressing these foundational issues first is crucial. By stabilising the economy, improving healthcare, and reforming education, the government can create a supportive environment that benefits all sectors, including the music industry. For instance, a stronger economy can lead to increased disposable income, which in turn can boost spending on music and entertainment. Improved healthcare can ensure a healthier population that can actively participate in and contribute to the creative industries. Comprehensive education reform can produce well-rounded individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the music industry.

Keir Starmer’s personal commitment to music and the arts is well-documented. His background as a musician and his passion for making the arts accessible to all young people are promising. However, translating this passion into effective policy requires a balanced and prioritised approach. The Labour government’s broader strategy for the creative sector should be integrated into its overall industrial strategy, ensuring that it supports growth and addresses the challenges facing the industry in a holistic manner.

Realistic Timelines of Music Industry Reformation

Realistically, the timeline for the new Labour government to reform the music industry will depend on several factors, including the complexity of the reforms, the legislative process, and the prioritisation of other urgent issues. Typically, substantial reforms can take several years to implement fully. Here’s a breakdown of the likely phases and their durations:

  1. Initial Assessment and Planning (6-12 months):
  • Establishing a task force or committee to assess the current state of the music industry.
  • Consulting with industry stakeholders, including organisations like UK Music and AIM.
  • Developing a comprehensive plan that aligns with broader government priorities.
  1. Legislative Process (12-24 months):
  • Drafting necessary legislation based on the plan.
  • Presenting the legislation to Parliament and navigating it through the legislative process.
  • This phase includes debates, committee reviews, and potential amendments to the proposed laws.
  1. Implementation of Reforms (24-36 months):
  • Rolling out new policies and regulations.
  • Allocating budgets and resources for initiatives like music education reforms and creative tax reliefs.
  • Establishing support systems for small music businesses and freelance musicians.
  1. Monitoring and Adjustment (36-48 months and beyond):
  • Monitoring the impact of the reforms and making necessary adjustments.
  • Continuous engagement with industry stakeholders to address emerging challenges and opportunities.
  • Long-term policies to ensure sustainability and growth within the music industry.

Given these phases, it could realistically take around 4 to 5 years to see significant and comprehensive reforms in the music industry. However, some changes, like increasing funding for music education or providing immediate support to struggling musicians, could be implemented more quickly.

The success of these reforms will also depend on the government’s ability to manage and address other pressing issues simultaneously, ensuring that the music industry receives the attention and resources it needs for long-term growth and stability.

Article by Amelia Vandergast

Independent Venue Week: Is IV24 An Exercise of Futility?

Independent Venue Week

Following the announcement from Music Venues Trust (MVT) which disparagingly revealed that 2023 was the worst year for UK venue closures after 125 venues showcased their last performance, 4,000 jobs were lost, and 14,500 events were cancelled, there is growing speculation over whether Independent Venue Week (IVW) can make a modicum of difference to the 80 music venues which are currently in crisis. This crisis is exacerbated by the cost of living, high rent rates, and increased utility costs. The Trust’s CEO, Mark Davyd, has called for “radical intervention” from the government, the music industry, artists, and fans to prevent further closures.

Is IVW24 An Exercise in Virtue-Swathed Futility?

IVW24 is set to take place from the 29th of January to the 4th of February. Once again, it is being marked as a seven-day celebration of music venues up and down the UK and the people who tirelessly attempt to keep them afloat.

But is it really anything more than attaching the IVW logo to gig posters for events scheduled to take place in the IVW timeframe? Is it enough to convince music fans to come out in droves to see up-and-coming and established bands? I, for one, am struggling to see the impact that Independent Venue Week will have on ticket sales. Even though I would love to see the initiative have a profound effect and give venue owners a reprieve from their financial anxiety, optimism is in short supply in the wake of the 193,230 opportunities that were lost for musicians through the closure of venues in 2023.

Sure, IVW has developed a line of merchandise. Even though there is absolutely no indication that purchasing one of the t-shirts will contribute to the rising costs of keeping the lights on and the PAs plugged in at music venues. And Huw Stephens and Steve Lamacq will be taking their BBC 6 Shows on the road, but it feels as though the music industry is going to need to put a far juicier carrot on the end of the stick to amp up the enthusiasm to purchase gig tickets. Stephens and Lamacq’s tour is a step towards raising awareness and support for these venues, but it underscores the need for more substantial and sustained efforts to safeguard the future of the UK’s music ecosystem.

“IVW is nothing more than an opportunity to promote big acts, not independent music. As a volunteer at an IVW event, I was treated poorly, working tirelessly without even so much as a bottle of water in return, meanwhile the venue staff didn’t get paid for the extra hours put in – so much for celebrating them. Every year it gets more contrived.”anonymous

With music fans more mindful of their budget than ever before given that there is no end to the cost-of-living crisis in sight, it is somewhat naïve to expect this event can even make a dent in the financial strain felt by independent music venues.

What is Independent Venue Week?

Independent Music Venue Week is a celebration of the spirit and uniqueness of independent music venues. It’s akin to a week-long festival, but instead of being confined to one location, it sprawls across the UK’s independent music venues, showcasing their importance and the diverse talent they support.

Origins and Evolution:

Inception (2014): IVW was launched in 2014. The idea was to shine a spotlight on the heroes who own and run these venues. It’s a nod to the places that often serve as the nurturing grounds for musicians, offering them their first stages and helping to shape their careers.

Growth and Development: Over the years, IVW has grown significantly. From a handful of venues in its early days, it has expanded to include hundreds of venues across the UK. Each year, the event sees a series of gigs and talks taking place over a week, usually at the end of January or the beginning of February. This timing is strategic, as it falls at a quieter time of the year for these venues, giving them a much-needed boost.

Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to the live music scene. IVW adapted by incorporating virtual events and fundraising efforts to support struggling venues. This period highlighted the fragility of independent venues and galvanized public and industry support for them.

Key Figures and Involvement:

Sybil Bell: The founder of IVW, Sybil Bell, has been a crucial figure in the initiative. Her vision and dedication have been instrumental in driving the event forward and raising awareness about the importance of independent venues.

Artists and Bands: Each year, a mix of well-known and emerging artists participate in IVW. These artists often have a personal connection to these venues, having started their careers on similar stages. Their involvement brings attention and crowds, vital for the venues’ survival.

Partnerships and Support: IVW has garnered support from various organizations, including Arts Council England. Partnerships with music industry bodies, media, and sponsors have helped in amplifying its impact.

Government Recognition: The initiative has also previously received acknowledgement from the UK government, highlighting its cultural significance and the need for supporting grassroots music venues.

In Conclusion

To truly make a difference, IVW and similar initiatives must go beyond annual celebrations and become part of a larger, concerted effort to address the financial and structural challenges facing independent music venues. This could include advocating for policy changes, creating sustainable funding models, and fostering a culture of continuous support from the music community and the public. Only through such comprehensive and ongoing efforts can the decline of these cultural hubs be halted and reversed.

For more music news, keep following our blog, which has recently been voted by Vuelio as one of the top 10 UK music blogs in 2024. We always have room to feature new music from up-and-coming artists and help them cut through the oversaturated static. Submit new music today.

Article by Amelia Vandergast

Patreon Has Finally Added Free Fan Membership Tiers

Even though Patreon has been gaining popularity as a platform, many independent artists still feel uncomfortable with setting up a profile and tapping their fans for cash in exchange for exclusive content.

We get it. It is an uncomfortable position to put yourself in, especially if your social media posts announcing your profile result in tumbleweed and you are conscious of the economic times we are all trying to navigate. Knowing disposable income is dissolving, Patreon has moved with the times and finally added free fan membership tiers. But that isn’t the only innovation from the platform, which can now facilitate Direct-to-Fan digital sales; in a similar way to Bandcamp.

While Bandcamp probably isn’t quaking in its metaphorical boots quite yet after the change was announced on the 21st of June, it is a major milestone for the subscription-based platform. Going forward, the platform will enable creators, including musicians, to hawk their digital wares to fans on the platform. In a press release, a spokesperson for Patreon dubbed the new changes as a mark of a new era of creative control.

Obviously, the platform will make its own gains from becoming a new form of e-commerce platform; however, they chose to market it as a new way for their creators to strengthen their relationships with their communities and build sustainable businesses.

Patreon is quickly becoming the antithesis of platforms such as TikTok, which makes it easy to become a viral sensation overnight and impossible to create long-lasting and meaningful connections with their communities.

How Do Patreon’s Free Membership Tiers Work?

The new membership tiers are free-to-use for fans and creators alike; the platform created the tiers to build a ‘freemium gateway’, for new artists and creators to bolster their fanbase on the site.

Creators already established on the platform will also benefit, as they can add more casual fans and diehard fans who don’t have the cash to burn on memberships to their community.

There are two main benefits for artists and creators:

  1. Once fans are on the platform, they will get a feel of it and potentially be more likely to pay for a paid membership to their favourite artists’ exclusive content.
  2. Artists can send updates to their community through the Patreon mobile app and via the web without needing to pay for sponsored posts or having to negate algorithms that will diminish the reach of posts.

How to Sell Digital Products via Patreon

Getting your music and other digital products in as many places as possible is important for independent artists looking to expand their reach by casting their nets as wide as possible.

Now, along with ensuring that your music is on YouTube, Spotify, SoundCloud, Bandcamp, Tidal and Apple Music, you will also want to publish it on Patreon.

As of June 2023, musicians can sell the usual digital wares, such as songs, albums, and EPs, via the platform and any other form of digital content, including artwork, music videos, live performances and podcast episodes. The site now facilitates global payment processing, which will make downloadable files accessible to the general public and fans with memberships alike.

To sell your music or other downloadables via Patreon, create a product page and set a price for your content. Once your browsable shop is open for trade, you can publicly share the shop on social media platforms, your official website and other streaming services which make it harder to see any revenue from your audience’s interest in your music – we’re obviously talking about Spotify here!

For commerce sales, Patreon will keep a 5% percentage of all sales, plus fees for payment processing, applicable taxes, currency conversion and payouts. For paid membership fees, the percentage is slightly higher at 8%.

You can read the full update on the Patreon website here.

How Popular is Patreon in 2023?

In the last decade since Patreon’s inception in 2013, the platform has become one of the most successful ones of its kind. As of February 2023, Patreon:

  • Has over 8 million active Patrons.
  • Allows its creators to collectively make over $100 million each month.
  • Has over 250,00 active creators, with over 220,00 having at least one patron.
  • Has paid $3.5 billion to its creators.

A few months ago, we wondered what has the potential to replace Spotify and considered Patetron as an option. With these two new major shakeups, the platform has become a frontrunner in the race, at least for artists and creators with hardcore fanbases willing to part with cash to support them. It may not be able to boast the same seamless and effortless streaming capacity yet, but who knows what the future holds for the platform.

Article by Amelia Vandergast

Four UK Government Shakeups Independent Artists Should Note (Surprisingly, They’re All Positive)

Government Shakeups

It will take a lot for the sitting government to improve their reputation in the run-up to the next general election. Nevertheless, in the past two weeks, there have been four major government shakeups that independent artists should note and celebrate. Make that five if you want to celebrate the victory of Boris Johnson’s resignation and the subsequent resignation of his #1 simp, Nadine Dorries.

There may still be a lot to lament in the current economic and cultural climate and while the points outlined below certainly don’t absolve recent political sins or will be of any immediate comfort to those hit hardest by the recession, they do prove there is light at the end of the tunnel and optimism for a fairer future for artists and creators isn’t futile.

Four UK Government Shakeups Independent Artists Should Note

  1. The UK Government Announced £77 Million of New Funding for the Creative Sector

On the 13th of June, a press release was circulated into the public domain to share the ambitious plans of growing the UK economy by boosting creative industries and building a pipeline of talent and skills. After setting aside £77 million in new funding, the government is aiming to create 1 million more creative jobs by 2030; in just seven years, the creative sector is expected to be worth £50 billion in the UK.

Rishi Sunak somehow found the time to stop appeasing the Little Englander racists with his incessantly dehumanising ‘stop the boats’ rhetoric to identify bolstering the creative industries as one of his top priorities. Whether he stays true to that intent and pledge is another thing entirely, but at least it makes a refreshing change from him donating $3 million to a US college to build a computer lab.

The additional £50 million is expected to be poured into ‘regional creative clusters’, and there will be extra funding for music venues and allowing the next generation of new music talent. Video game studios and London Fashion Week are also expecting a sizeable cash injection in the coming years.

Read the full report, including statements from Rishi Sunak, the Culture Secretary, Lucy Frazer, and the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, here.

  1. The UK Government Increased Funding for the Music Exports Growth Scheme

In more positive funding news, the Music Exports Growth Scheme (MEGS) funding will increase over the next two years to £3.2 million. Thanks to this funding, British artists attempting to build an audience overseas will gain additional support.

While it would probably be more beneficial to cut the red tape that is restricting UK artists from touring, working, and shipping their records and merch throughout Europe, it is a welcome move, especially for the record label body, British Phonographic Industry (BPI), which has been crying out for more funding in the past few years after the financial struggle brought on by the pandemic and the subsequent economic crisis.

The interim CEO of MEGS was delighted with the UK Government’s recognition of the excellent ROI that MEGS offers and believes that the funds will efficaciously go towards supporting independent artists.

  1. The Universal Basic Income Trials Are Underway

If you read Utopia for Realists by Rutger Bregman, you will know how promising the trials of Universal Basic Income (UBI) are in the UK. The trials may be small, with a modest number of 30 participants, but if successful, they could shape the landscape of the creative industry in the years to come.

All participants in the trial will receive a ‘basic’ income of £1,600 a month for the next two years. The trial will monitor if a UBI scheme could simplify the welfare system, reduce poverty, boost overall well-being and provide security in the labour market.

This new Government Shakeup may not directly impact musicians in the imminent future, but now that it is harder than ever to create a comfortable income via music and AI is arriving to add even more uncertainty to the creative industries, the potential changes in the labour market could be exponential.

Artists and creators would be given the freedom to make moves in their music careers without worrying about how they will correlate with commercial potential and profit. It could amplify the importance of the catharsis and satisfaction within the creative process while the pressure is taken off trying to capitalise on creativity.

Of course, ego-driven artists would still like to count their worth in the £s they have brought in via their music, and there will always be those who want to keep music as an elite club while the working class breaks their backs doing menial work and has no extra capacity for creativity, but fuck those guys.

  1. MPs are Advocating for Fairer Streaming Royalties for Artists and Songwriters

Earlier this month, it was announced that the UK Government, along with music industry experts, will be launching a plan to investigate fair pay for musicians. The imitative was spurred by the recommendations from the Culture, Media, and Sport Committee after hearing the frustrations of musicians.

The working group will look into how musicians and songwriters are unfairly paid by the streaming giants, Tidal, Apple Music and Spotify. The chair of the CMS committee, Dame Caroline Dineange MP, believes that there is extensive work to be done to ensure that artists are fairly compensated for playing a central role in the success of the streaming industry.

Although, independent artists won’t want to hold their breath on this government shakeup either, in 2021, a UK parliamentary inquiry decreed that the royalty system needs a complete reset. Notably, they are yet to find the reset button!

Article by Amelia Vandergast

The Impossibility of Legacy in the 21st-Century Music Industry

Legacy

When history leaves no room for modernity; when nostalgia is a greater incentive to engage with ‘culture’ than contemporary innovation; when legacy pedestals went out of production in the 90s, what hope is left in the music industry?

The post-pandemic era of music is becoming increasingly alien to what we have known before. It is not technology adding tentacle-ESQUE appendages to the industry. For the past 50 years, the rapid rate of technological progress has been integral to the way music has embedded into our daily lives. Industry oligarchs relentlessly pushed for progression to increase profit margins with every artist gambled on. Now that digital streaming services have reached the pinnacle of music consumption convenience, there is little to anticipate. Sans Musk embedding Neuralink chips in our skulls, and we can stream music directly into our brains.

We can point the finger at the culture of streaming platforms until Rigor mortis sets in, ignoring the three fingers pointing back at ourselves with our strange transfixion on the past that dictates modern-day legacies do not last.

The unattainability of legacy especially rings true within the confines of indie, rock, and alternative music. The alluring sentimentality of nostalgia and reminiscence is the real reason why fame is fleeting; success is slender in supply and why music fans are now eulogising their only music icons on Facebook every five minutes.

Even if an independent artist hits number one in the official music charts in 2023, it means almost nothing in terms of standing in the industry. It is only a matter of time before they downrank under the perpetual dominance of Nirvana, Nickelback, and Pink Floyd.

To go full circle on how streaming has affected the music industry, the contemporary irrelevance of official music charts has even started to change how albums hit the market. Why bow to the pressure of raw sales when streaming is king? And in the words of Post Malone, why compromise the artistic and authentic integrity of a record to ensure an arbitrary number that is no longer of any consequence is reached?

The Fame-Talent Dichotomy

As someone who has spent the past six years in the music industry listening to new artists, I find it impossible to subscribe to the theory that the fixtures in the rock n roll hall of fame are portraits that contemporary artists cannot hold a candle to.

The painful awareness of the off-kilter correspondence between fame and talent is something the average music consumer will never see. If they did, they would be infinitely more open to the suggestion that living and breathing artists who aren’t inches from being six feet under are as capable of ground-breaking music as the artists made divine in their blind eyes.

May be an image of 3 people, people standing, people playing musical instruments and indoor

The addiction to the bittersweetness of sonic nostalgia is undoubtedly a stark sign of where our collective psyche stands at this strangely sour point in history. Yet, if we continuously ignore the irony between the statements that “they don’t make ‘em like they used to” and the complete unwillingness to listen to what they ARE making, we are setting a generation of artists up to fail. Not that it is surprising people of a certain age are somewhat ambivalent about that. Given what they have done to the rest of society and the economy.

While there are sniffings of viral TikTok fame for some contemporary artists, one-hit-wonders can only get with their passive fans in their unsustainable careers. As a new generation comes of age, they are shown that history is required for legacy – unless you’re lucky enough to get the jump up from nepotism or selected as a media plant.

Music as a Mausoleum: A Tale of Two Cities

As a Manchester-based music journalist, I’m no stranger to music cultures led by ancient tastemakers and epitomised by records that have been collecting dust since the 80s. I’ve long since accepted that my words, no matter how sharp, will never be as cutting as the people twice my age who can say they were in all of the right places long before I was cerebral enough to string a sentence together. But this isn’t about me. It is about the absolute exception to George Santayana’s rule of; “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”.

Making my first trip to one of Liverpool’s most iconic music venues, The Cavern Club, showed me just how insidious the fetishization and fixation of legacy truly is. Tawdry statues of the Beatles scaled the walls with endless ephemera as a reminder that they were once here. Like graffiti on a dirty public toilet door, they were stamped in history. Tacky memorabillia enshrined behind glass tempted tanked-up tourists to grab a kitsch piece of history and ignore the glaring commodification of culture that reminds every artist that steps foot into that venue that their legacy will always be less-than.

The Beatles Image In A Wall In The Cavern Club, Liverpool, UK Stock Photo, Picture And Royalty Free Image. Image 81903358.

While there should always be room to rhapsodize artists that were integral to the inspiration of many, became the soundtrack to many lives and earned themselves a place in history, there should still be enough room for fresh talent to breathe.

Yet, there is little oxygen left for new and emerging artists to share. Creative sparks diminish as soon as they are lit in our suffocating atmosphere where cover bands get all the cash and artists with any modicum of distinction about them are chastised for sticking out from the mould.

Mindless connections with music and music culture are infinitely more dangerous than the perils of Spotify and Ek’s ilk. You can’t keep your head in the sentimental sand for decades, pop back up for daylight and bemoan the changing technological tides that have removed gatekeepers for many, and provided the platforms for even more.

Article by Amelia Vandergast