Streaming Wars

While changes to a market are expected as it evolves, the interconnectedness of music streaming means that impacts are felt throughout the entire ecosystem. This is to say that there is a responsibility for all parties concerned to transparently engage in wider consultation before such impactful decisions are made. There is a shared responsibility... See more

If Apple wanted to offer exclusive music, they would cut a deal with Taylor Swift. They have the cash to do it. They wouldn’t waste time on locking up Kalevi Aho. That’s so obvious I shouldn’t even have to say it, but (given all the smoke and mirrors here), I really do.

So we’re clearly dealing with the bad Apple here. And the fact that the company... See more

There is also a slightly subtler impact, noted by labels that we interviewed, on new artists, whereby their growth trajectory has been impacted due to the chilling effect on their ability to monetise the earliest stage of their career, and their access to support and services from platforms. Applying arbitrary thresholds to artists who are just... See more

Walt Disney Co. just surpassed Netflix in total streaming subs (221.1m vs. 220.7m). And it did so in less than 3 years since launching Disney+. How? By combining great content with a technology it acquired from the MLB (yes, Major League Baseball) for $2.6B. Here’s the story🧵