Will music survive the next 25 years? - Season 3 Prologue

What this episode covers

<p>How will music survive until 2050? Will streaming monopolies and economic pressures lead to music’s decline, or can we build a fairer, more sustainable future?</p><p><br></p><p>In this season three prologue of the <strong>Drowned in Sound Podcast</strong>, host <strong>Sean Adams</strong> (<strong>founder of Drowned in Sound</strong>) reflects on his <strong>lifelong love of music</strong>, the <strong>systemic challenges facing artists</strong>, and what the next 25 years could mean for <strong>independent musicians, grassroots venues, and the future of the industry</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>In this series, expect <strong>big questions, deep dives, and conversations with artists, industry leaders, and changemakers</strong> who are shaping what comes next.</p><p><br></p><p>Drowned in Sound’s podcast is about <strong>a life built around music</strong>—but also how music <strong>shapes culture, communities, and change</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Topics in this episode:</strong></p><p>Why <strong>grassroots venues</strong> are struggling</p><p>How <strong>streaming giants</strong> control music discovery</p><p>The <strong>economic realities</strong> of being an artist today</p><p>Lessons from <strong>past music movements</strong> and how they shaped the industry</p><p><br></p><p>Why <strong>music’s future</strong> depends on the choices we make now</p><p><br></p><p>🎵 <strong>Music by Sound Mirror</strong> – <a href="https://www.soundmirror.co.uk/">https://www.soundmirror.co.uk/</a></p><p><br></p><p>📩 <strong>Subscribe to the Drowned in Sound newsletter</strong>: <a href="http://drownedinsound.org/">http://drownedinsound.org</a></p><p><br></p><p>00:00 Introduction: The Future of Music in 2050</p><p>00:25 Personal Journey with Music</p><p>01:45 Climate Activism & Music’s Role in Change</p><p>02:20 Challenges Facing Artists & the Music Industry</p><p>03:34 Streaming, Labels & Who Holds the Power</p><p>06:13 Economic Disparities & the Struggles of Independent Artists</p><p>07:36 The Importance of Community in Music</p><p>10:46 Conclusion: The Power & Potential of Music</p><p><br></p><p>What do you think <strong>the future of music</strong> looks like?What <strong>challenges</strong> should the industry fix first?</p><p><br></p><p>💬 Leave a review on your podcast app.</p><p><br></p><p>🔔 <strong>Follow, rate & subscribe</strong> to never miss an episode.</p>