UNLIMITED SUPPLY with Digital Music News Freedom from choice, what you really want? Mapping the Creator Economy, and Psy is back.
Jan 14, 2026
Explore the fascinating dynamics of the creator economy as it evolves in 2026. Delve into Instagram's new algorithm-control rollout and consider whether users crave freedom or simplicity. Discover the impacts of Australia's recent social media regulations, with a staggering 540,000 teen accounts removed. Don't miss the viral resurgence of Psy and the catchy collaborations making waves on TikTok. Join the conversation on how music trends are reshaping the industry and igniting cultural phenomena.
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Catalog Valuations Are Averages, Not Truth
- Catalog valuations vary widely, but the current average sits near a 9x multiple on yearly earnings.
- That 'average' masks extremes from one-hit wonders to evergreen prints, so treat it as a rough guide.
Instagram Adds Algorithm Control Option
- Instagram now offers an algorithm control option to let users tweak their feed settings.
- Lars Murray warns this may be meaningful but could also be unused, framing it as partial 'de-enshittification.'
Creator Economy Is Maturing Fast
- The creator economy is rapidly corporatizing and attracting sophisticated investment in 2026.
- Lars Murray notes music can leverage creator-economy infrastructure and practices to compete for content investment.