Cover of the textbook Engage!, Vol. 1

The key answer of exercise 22

The key to exercise solutions in chapter Unit 9 - That's entertainment! for the textbook Engage!, Vol. 1 with authors Monica Berlis, Jane Bowie, Heather Jones e Barbara Bettinelli from Pearson Longman

Question

The internet has changed the music industry dramatically. Do you think the changes are positive or negative - or a mixture? Give your reasons.

Answer

The internet's impact on the music industry is a double-edged sword, with both positive and negative consequences.

On the bright side:

  • Accessibility: Music has never been more accessible. The internet allows fans to effortlessly discover new tunes and explore a vast array of genres and artists from around the globe.
  • Independence: Musicians now have unprecedented control over their careers. They can bypass traditional record labels, promoting and distributing their music directly to fans, fostering greater creative freedom.
  • Exposure: The internet provides a platform for up-and-coming artists to gain exposure and connect with audiences worldwide without relying on costly marketing campaigns.

However, there's a darker side:

  • Piracy: The ease of sharing and downloading music online has led to rampant piracy, depriving artists of rightful earnings and undermining the industry's economic stability.
  • Revenue: While streaming services offer convenience for consumers, they often pay meager royalties to artists, leaving many struggling to make ends meet, especially smaller or independent musicians.
  • Oversaturation: With an overwhelming abundance of music available online, it's increasingly challenging for artists to cut through the noise and stand out, leading to a fiercely competitive and crowded market.

In summary, while the internet has revolutionized the music industry, democratizing access and empowering artists, it has also introduced significant challenges, such as piracy and revenue disparities. Thus, its impact is undeniably a mixed bag of blessings and burdens.