In this discussion, Zack O’Malley Greenburg, a music industry contributor, shares rich insights on 2024's winners and losers across streaming and artists. He delves into Kendrick Lamar's ascendancy against Drake's streaming performance. The conversation highlights J. Cole's tour success and Taylor Swift's financial achievements driven by social media. They also critique Universal Music Group's dual role in nurturing talent amidst streaming dominance and the contrasting strategies of major versus independent labels. Listen for an engaging analysis!
Kendrick Lamar dominated the streaming landscape in 2024 with his mainstream success and standout performances, exemplifying artist growth strategies.
Taylor Swift's groundbreaking direct negotiations with TikTok and record-breaking concert revenues showcase her influence and reshaped artist-label dynamics.
Deep dives
2024 Highlights in the Music Industry
The year 2024 witnessed significant developments in the music industry, characterized by notable mergers and acquisitions along with high-profile artist activity. Major companies engaged in both successful and challenging deals, reflecting the dynamics of the post-pandemic landscape. Artists released impactful albums, topped streaming charts, and dominated the live music scene, showcasing their star power. This year proved crucial for record labels and streaming platforms as they navigated complex negotiations and collaborations, each employing varying degrees of success in their strategies.
Streaming Winners and Kendrick Lamar's Rise
Kendrick Lamar emerged as the streaming winner of 2024, transitioning from being a niche favorite to becoming a mainstream sensation. His notable single 'Not Like Us' topped charts, indicating a significant leap in streaming performance, culminating in a standout Super Bowl halftime show. Comparatively, streaming platform Spotify celebrated its first fully profitable year, with a market cap that skyrocketed, suggesting that its business strategy has resonated well in a competitive market. The stark contrast in performances between artists and platforms illustrates shifting trends where both Kendrick and Spotify redefined success through effective engagement and strategic growth.
Tidal and Exclusivity Costs
Tidal faced challenges as it struggled to maintain relevance in a market increasingly dominated by Spotify and Apple Music. Despite its unique offerings and artist-centric approach, the platform couldn't capture enough subscribers willing to pay for exclusivity amid a plethora of free options. Layoffs and scaling back investments indicated a worrying trend, with the service's business model showing signs of strain. The ever-evolving landscape places Tidal at risk of being overshadowed by competitors that offer more comprehensive access to music.
Taylor Swift's Dominance
Taylor Swift solidified her position as a leading force in the music world, grossing over a billion dollars in 2024, far surpassing competitors. She captivated audiences not only through her extensive touring but also by directly negotiating deals with TikTok, redefining the power dynamics between artists and record labels. The impact of her concerts on local economies underscored her unparalleled influence and the phenomenon often referred to as 'Taylor Swift Inflation,' where her presence significantly elevated surrounding business activity. Swift's ability to command both commercial success and cultural relevance highlights her unique status and contributions to the modern music landscape.
Here are our winners and losers of 2024 in streaming, artist, and record label. Part 2 coming in a few days. Hear me and Zack O’ Malley Greenburg break it all down!