Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The music industry has undergone significant transformations with the advent of music streaming platforms. This thesis investigates the impact of music streaming platforms on the music industry, examining both the opportunities and challenges they present to various stakeholders. The study begins by providing an overview of the music industry and the evolution of music distribution methods. It explores the rise of music streaming platforms and their role in shaping consumer behavior, artist promotion, revenue generation, and industry dynamics. Through a comprehensive literature review, ten key themes emerge, including the democratization of music access, changes in revenue models, artist compensation concerns, data analytics and personalization, market concentration, licensing complexities, piracy reduction, and platform competition. These themes serve as the foundation for the subsequent research methodology, which employs a mixed-methods approach involving surveys, interviews, and data analysis to gather insights from industry professionals, artists, and consumers. The findings reveal a nuanced landscape where music streaming platforms have revolutionized music consumption patterns, enabling broader access to diverse music catalogs while raising questions about equitable compensation for artists. The discussion of findings delves into the implications of these changes for industry stakeholders, highlighting the need for adaptive strategies to navigate the evolving music ecosystem. In conclusion, this thesis underscores the transformative impact of music streaming platforms on the music industry, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts among artists, record labels, streaming services, and policymakers to address the challenges and harness the opportunities presented by this digital shift. By shedding light on the complex dynamics at play, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the evolving music industry landscape in the digital age.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "An Analysis of the Impact of Music Streaming Platforms on the Music Industry" aims to investigate the profound effects that music streaming platforms have had on the music industry. With the rapid advancement of technology and the shift towards digital consumption of music, streaming platforms have become prominent players in the distribution and consumption of music globally. This study seeks to explore how these platforms have revolutionized the music industry, influencing various stakeholders such as artists, record labels, consumers, and the industry as a whole. The research will delve into the background of music streaming platforms, outlining their emergence, growth, and impact on traditional music distribution models. By examining the evolution of these platforms and their business models, the project will provide insights into how they have transformed the way music is accessed, marketed, and monetized. One of the key objectives of this research is to identify the benefits and challenges that music streaming platforms present to artists and record labels. By analyzing the revenue streams, licensing agreements, and promotional opportunities offered by these platforms, the study aims to shed light on the implications for musicians and industry professionals. Furthermore, the project will address the impact of music streaming platforms on consumer behavior and music consumption patterns. It will investigate how these platforms have influenced listening habits, discovery of new music, and the overall music listening experience for consumers around the world. In addition, the study will explore the regulatory and legal considerations surrounding music streaming platforms, including issues related to copyright, royalty payments, and fair compensation for artists. By examining the legal frameworks governing these platforms, the research aims to highlight the challenges and opportunities for stakeholders in the music industry. Overall, this research project seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of music streaming platforms on the music industry, offering valuable insights into the changing dynamics of the industry in the digital age. Through a thorough examination of the benefits, challenges, and implications of these platforms, the study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of the music industry and provide recommendations for industry stakeholders to navigate this transformative period.