Spotify's launch promised a revolutionary music access model, benefiting recording companies and listeners, but independent musicians received minimal compensation. The platform's success favored major labels, highlighting the discrepancy between saving the music industry and saving music itself.
Spotify generated substantial profits for the consolidated recording industry.
Independent musicians earned fractions of pennies per download.
Major labels held significant power in negotiations with streaming platforms.
Spotify promised independent artists a new revenue stream, and listeners exposure to new music. In the new book 'Mood Machine,' music journalist Liz Pelly examines how the streaming giant has shaped our listening habits.