In this special Q&A episode, DiS founder Sean Adams explores the uncomfortable truths about streaming economics, social media burnout, and why the music industry's success metrics are fundamentally broken.
From debunking the myth that millions of streams equal financial stability to reframing social media as an extension of artistic practice, Sean answers your questions and offers practical wisdom for navigating an industry designed to exploit rather than support creators.
This episode strips away the glossy veneer of streaming success stories to reveal the harsh mathematical reality: an artist with 25 million streams over a decade might earn just £6,000 annually - less than minimum wage, before expenses. Sean explores why massive streaming numbers rarely translate to sustainable live audiences and how platforms like Spotify actively prevent artists from connecting with their own listeners.
Timestamped Chapters:
- [00:00] Introduction
- [01:31] What do you tell an artist that has great music but hates social media?
- [09:46] What will streaming look like in five years?
- [14:57] Is there still a place for live streaming gigs?
- [20:37] Does 25 million Spotify streams pay enough to live on?
- [27:07] The difference between building a fanbase and streaming numbers
- [32:35] Outro and preview for Part 2
- [34:01] Bonus track: Kate Nash on MySpace
Key Takeaways:
- How to transform social media from promotional burden into artistic storytelling extension
- Recognise the disconnect between streaming numbers and actual audience connection
- Focus on platforms that enable direct fan communication rather than vanity metrics
- Consider live streaming only for performances designed specifically for digital consumption
Resources Mentioned:
Questions Answered:
- Sarah Howells (LinkedIn): Advice for great artists who hate social media
- Mark Painting (LinkedIn): Will streaming consolidate or fragment in five years?
- Paul Gaffigan (Email): Is there still a place for live streaming post-lockdown?
- Tony Moss (Email): Breaking down the 25 million streams success myth
Continue the Conversation:
Send your questions for future Q&A episodes to sean@drownedinsound.org or find Sean online. What music industry myths need debunking next?
About the Host:
Sean Adams is the founder of Drowned in Sound, an independent music publication that has championed underground and independent artists since 2000. Through the DiS podcast, newsletter, and community, Sean explores how to build a fairer, more sustainable music industry while supporting the artists and fans who make it meaningful.
Next Episode Preview:
Part two continues with Sean's analysis of the Disarmed Spotify movement - why musicians are pulling their music and fans are abandoning the platform they once trusted.
