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Jan 8, 2026
Sam Murphy, also known as Pop Sam Cam, is a music journalist specializing in pop culture and music industry trends. In this conversation, he explores the shifting dynamics in the music industry heading into 2025, where artists are reclaiming their power. He discusses innovative fan engagement through live streaming and TikTok's influence on launching new talents. Murphy also highlights the success of country and soft rock, along with artists challenging industry norms, providing insights into the future landscape of music.
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Artists Regain Industry Power
- 2025 pushed power back toward artists as they explored independence and direct fan channels.
- Sam Murphy says this trend reshapes who reaches mainstream success and how music is made.
2025 Shifted Toward Conservative Sounds
- 2025 leaned away from progressive pop toward country, soft rock and male-led chart moments.
- Sam Murphy describes the year as a conservative swing after 2024's pop-forward trends.
Creators Become Chart Contenders
- Social creators like Alex Warren and Addison Rae are now Grammy-recognised paths to pop stardom.
- Murphy argues TikTok breakthroughs are functionally equivalent to older TV talent-show routes.