Date of Award
Spring 4-25-2025
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Department/Major
History
First Advisor
Elizabeth Manser Payne
Second Advisor
David Moskowitz
Third Advisor
Matthew Heard
Keywords
Spotify, Music Streaming, Music Industry, Playlists, Algorithm, Royalties
Subject Categories
Musicology | Other Music | Technology and Innovation
Abstract
Technological changes within the music industry, particularly through streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, have completely altered how artists and labels function in 2025. This thesis examines the change from physical to digital music consumption, the economic realities of streaming royalties, and the mental and physical effects on artists in the modern age. Additionally, this thesis will discuss the utilization of playlisting methods and algorithms, as well as how artists and labels utilize these new features to their advantage. Through this research, this study analyzes and criticizes the sustainability of music streaming models.
Recommended Citation
Kays, Adam J., "The Sound of Disruption: The Effects of Music Streaming Services and Technological Change on The Music Industry" (2025). Honors Thesis. 365.
https://red.library.usd.edu/honors-thesis/365