The streaming wars continue to intensify.
Spotify is gearing up for their IPO. Pandora announced a new streaming service rate of $4.95 per month and Questlove as their artist in residence. And there are rumors of Tidal losing 27 million dollars this year yet continuing to put on awesome events and drop top notch exclusives including the new charity show with Jay and Beyonce.
But all eyes were on Apple this week. The new iPhone is out and so is an upgraded Apple Music service. Besides the wireless headphones and improved camera, the buzz was also about the James Cordon spot that features the Apple executives that premiered during the Emmys. I know it’s catching mixed reviews but I personally loved it and think doing the deal with Carpool Karaoke was one of Apple music’s savviest ones yet.
However when it comes to artists and creatives, the conversation is all about getting on playlists. Playlists have become the new radio a-list. And being on the right playlist is a big step in a track breaking and going viral. Although Jay Z’s playlist on Tidal breaks tracks too, it feels like Spotify continues to be winning big in that category. It’s an exciting time to be in the music industry. Let’s see what surprises happen in the last part of 2016.
– @JesseKay
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