Music Tectonics The Great Bifurcation Debate with the MIDiA Team
Aug 6, 2025
Tatiana Cirisano, an Analyst at MIDiA Research, dives into the great bifurcation of the music industry, debating the ‘play’ versus ‘listen’ perspectives. She highlights how younger audiences crave interactive experiences, pushing artists to adapt to survive. The conversation unveils challenges in monetization strategies on social media and streaming platforms that hinder genuine artist-fan connections. Cirisano also examines how live music is evolving in this streaming era, stressing the need for deeper engagement and sustainable practices.
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Two Parallel Music Economies
- The music industry is bifurcating into two coexisting sectors: 'listen' (streaming) and 'play' (social/interactive platforms).
- This split reflects differing user behaviors and business models rather than one replacing the other.
Build For Active Participation
- Lean into interactive formats because Gen Z wants to participate, remix, and create rather than just curate playlists.
- Start building features and experiences that let fans actively engage with music beyond passive listening.
Streaming's Broken Promise To Artists
- Streaming failed to deliver a broad artist middle class and many creators accepted that reality.
- Artists are shifting to social to build direct connections and monetization outside traditional streaming royalty mechanics.