UNLIMITED SUPPLY with Digital Music News How the Grinch stole Hanukkah, a year end tongue bath, and Beggars punches above its weight
Dec 19, 2025
Explore the competitive landscape of the music industry with a year-end market share roundup highlighting key players. Discover the intrigue behind YouTube's decision to limit data reporting to Billboard amid streaming payment controversies. Dive into the impressive growth of PRS and the cultural impact of the Beggars Group, which thrives despite a smaller revenue scale. Finally, enjoy a festive send-off with a song of the year recommendation that captures the essence of 2025.
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Majors Still Dominate Year-End Market Share
- End-of-year market-share tallies show the usual major-label dominance across Universal, Sony, and Warner.
- Hits Daily Double's report highlights label power rather than surprising market shifts.
Lyor Cohen's Grinch Move On Billboard
- Lars recounts Lyor Cohen's move from industry figure to YouTube exec and a new feud with Billboard.
- Cohen's decision to stop reporting full YouTube data to Billboard is framed as a Grinch-like act that will disrupt label holiday plans.
Charts Are Economic Instruments
- Charts reflect industry economics more than pure consumption, affecting bonuses and business decisions.
- YouTube's reporting shift matters because charts drive pay and promotional outcomes across labels.