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

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?In this season three prologue of the Drowned in Sound Podcast, host Sean Adams (founder of Drowned in Sound) reflects on his lifelong love of music, the systemic challenges facing artists, and what the next 25 years could mean for independent musicians, grassroots venues, and the future of the industry.In this series, expect big questions, deep dives, and conversations with artists, industry leaders, and changemakers who are shaping what comes next.Drowned in Sound’s podcast is about a life built around music—but also how music shapes culture, communities, and change.Topics in this episode:Why grassroots venues are strugglingHow streaming giants control music discoveryThe economic realities of being an artist todayLessons from past music movements and how they shaped the industryWhy music’s future depends on the choices we make now🎵 Music by Sound Mirror – https://www.soundmirror.co.uk/📩 Subscribe to the Drowned in Sound newsletter: http://drownedinsound.org00:00 Introduction: The Future of Music in 205000:25 Personal Journey with Music01:45 Climate Activism & Music’s Role in Change02:20 Challenges Facing Artists & the Music Industry03:34 Streaming, Labels & Who Holds the Power06:13 Economic Disparities & the Struggles of Independent Artists07:36 The Importance of Community in Music10:46 Conclusion: The Power & Potential of MusicWhat do you think the future of music looks like?What challenges should the industry fix first?💬 Leave a review on your podcast app.🔔 Follow, rate & subscribe to never miss an episode.