Here we are for a new Weekly Roundup and a very interesting one! We have a variety of topics to tackle, from the debacle between TikTok and the US to the most influential people on the music industry over the years.
#1. The latest takeaways from Tencent’s report
Tencent released its latest annual report, revealing some well-expected advancements in AI technology for predicting hit songs. Through its AI-powered "PDM'' technology, TME claims to accurately forecast the next hit song on its QQ Music platform.
Further in that same report, TME disclosed consequent growth in paid subscriber numbers, reaching 106.7 million. Despite a decline in overall revenue due to regulatory challenges in social entertainment, Tencent seems to keep their focus on innovation, incorporating AI into both music creation and listening experiences. Indeed, the report highlights various AI tools introduced by TME, including music production tools and AI companions to push user engagement.
Finally, Tencent's cumulative subscription models, integration with WeChat, and strategic investments in overseas entertainment companies underscore its commitment to expanding its global impact on the music industry.
#2. ByteDance engages in a legal battle over potential ban
ByteDance has officially initiated legal action against the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, labeling it an "outright ban" on their operations with TikTok. As a reminder, the U.S. have requested the selling of TikTok to a company other than ByteDance to avoid a full ban in the country. In a 70-page petition filed with the D.C. Court of Appeals, the companies argue against the law's "facially overbroad" nature, emphasizing the impossibility of divesting from the app within the mandated timeline.
Indeed, the activities should be sold and managed by January 19, 2025, so less than a year. This would be affecting approximately 170 million American users. Moreover, ByteDance highlights the detrimental impact of a divested app on user experience and international content integration, citing logistical challenges and constitutional violations.
#3. Radio is still pretty relevant
Moving on from the politics of it all, a few insights on other means than TikTok to get music promoted out there. Despite the surge in popularity of podcasts and music streaming services, some brand new Nielsen data reveals that American adults still dedicate the majority of their daily listening time to radio. Which helps a bit to understand where we stand on discoverability over radio broadcasts.
The report shows that radio accounts for 67% of ad-supported listening, followed by podcasts at 20%, music streaming at 10%, and satellite radio at 3%. However, younger audiences are increasingly favoring on-demand options, with only 45% of listening time among the 18 to 34 age group dedicated to radio. Conversely, for those over 35, radio remains dominant, capturing 74% of listening time.
Nielsen data points out the fact that news or talk radio is the most popular type of radio content, followed by adult contemporary music, classic hits, country music, and sports radio. Despite the slight decline in radio listening over the years, it remains a significant platform for audio consumption, especially outside the home and during the day.
#4. How the music industry is changing the conception of music
Keeping up with considerations of music, the evolution of music in the streaming era challenges traditional notions of genre. While streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music offer vast libraries and personalized playlists, they also blur genre boundaries and foster the rise of micro-genres. That’s the point made in the article right here, retracing a bit of the history behind this.
Contextual playlists based on mood or activity replace strict genre categorizations. Despite this, niche genre-specific streaming services continue to thrive, reflecting the enduring significance of genre for many listeners. While genre may not hold the same sway it once did, it still influences how people discover and engage with music, not demeaning at all its continued relevance in the ever-changing landscape of musical culture.
But how far can it keep blurring the lines before it changes our conception altogether? Music is often the bearer of a community, a (counter)culture. Can this still exist today?
#5. Steve Albini’s mark in Music
Albini, known for his extensive work on over 1 500 albums spanning various genres, left a strong impact on independent music. His dedication to his craft, unconventional approach, and commitment to fair compensation distinguished him as a notable figure in the underground scene.
From his early days with bands like Big Black to his later collaborations with renowned artists, Albini's influence extended far beyond the confines of the studio. His journey from a controversial figure to an advocate for change serves as a compelling example of personal growth and introspection. As the industry reflects on his legacy, Albini's enduring body of work and the principles he upheld continue to shape the landscape of music production and consumption.
