From Vinyl Revivals to Glocalization: An Economic Perspective with Will Page
Mar 12, 2025
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Will Page, author of 'Pivot' and former chief economist at Spotify, digs into the booming global music market now worth $45.5 billion. He discusses the rise of music exports, especially from Mexico and Colombia, and the thrilling comeback of vinyl records. Page also highlights the shift to CRM systems for artists directly engaging with fans. Additionally, he explores how YouTube is winning in emerging markets through social integration, while cautioning that Trump’s tariffs could hit musical instrument manufacturers hard.
The global music industry's value has surged to $45.5 billion, highlighting its economic impact surpassing that of cinema.
The rise of music exports from countries like Mexico and Colombia emphasizes the globalization of music and its economic benefits for local artists.
Deep dives
New Revenue Streams in Music
Sphere Entertainment's recent financial results showcase the growing potential of new experiences within the music industry, with $308 million generated in Q4, despite missing earnings forecasts. This indicates a shift in how revenue can be generated through innovative experiences rather than traditional channels. Additionally, plans for mini-spheres globally suggest further expansion opportunities that could transform performance venues. The ability to create unique entertainment experiences is becoming a vital revenue stream for the industry.
Audiobooks and the Future of Audio Content
The increasing preference for audiobooks among children highlights a significant shift in how audio content is consumed and valued. A survey indicated that 37.5% of young respondents found audiobooks heightened their interest in reading, particularly among boys. This trend suggests that audio is becoming a critical tool for education and engagement, potentially acting as a gateway to traditional literature. The implications for the music industry are substantial, as this may lead to new ways for artists to reach younger audiences through audio storytelling.
YouTube's Dominance in Music Streaming
YouTube has reached 125 million music and premium subscribers, marking significant growth and positioning itself as a major player in music streaming. This platform's ability to combine video with music listening creates a unique user experience compared to traditional streaming services. Additionally, YouTube's ad revenue growth of 14.7% year on year signals a robust business model that may outpace competitors. As artists increasingly integrate video content, YouTube is shaping the future landscape of music consumption.
Global Music Market Trends
Recent reports indicate a notable disparity in streaming revenue growth, with emerging markets driving volume while wealthier regions dominate value. Countries like India and Colombia are showcasing the potential of rich royalties flowing back to artists from successful international streams, positively impacting local music industries. The rise of superstars from these regions exemplifies the globalization of music and its economic benefits. The evolving global landscape necessitates a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics to capitalizing on emerging trends effectively.
Will Page, author of Pivot and former chief economist at Spotify, talks about the dramatic increase in the global value of music – up to $45.5 billion, surpassing cinema. We discuss the rise of music exports from countries like Mexico and Columbia and the accompanying economic boost. We touch on the resurgence of vinyl, and the shift to CRM systems for direct artist-to-fan engagement. We’ve also got a quick run-down of the headlines of the week, and a PR Strategy that will have you running towards the danger.
The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. Visit musictectonics.com to find shownotes and a transcript for this episode, and find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!