The Evolution of the Music Industry: Decades of Change

This Deep Dive tracks the dramatic evolution of the music industry from the mid-20th century to the digital age, as told through the perspective of a veteran professional. It highlights the cultural revolution of rock 'n' roll in the 1950s and the transition toward album-centric marketing and significant artist investment during the following decades. As the industry moved into the 1980s and 90s, the narrative shifts to focus on increased commercialisation and the disruptive impact of the internet on traditional business models. The modern era is described as a period of democratised music creation, where digital platforms and television competitions have replaced the necessity of traditional recording studios. Ultimately, Kenny Denton suggests that while technological  ...