The Realities of Digital Streaming: A Boon or a Burden for Artists?

Hey there,

As 2025 unfolds, the landscape of music revenue continues to evolve, with digital streaming now accounting for a staggering 67% of worldwide music industry revenue. This dominance highlights how streaming has reshaped the way we consume music, offering listeners unparalleled access to a global catalogue at their fingertips. But what does this mean for the artists creating the music?

The convenience of streaming is undeniable, allowing independent musicians to reach audiences that would have been unimaginable in the physical distribution era. However, the financial model behind it remains a double-edged sword. While streaming democratises exposure, it often fails to provide sustainable income for most artists, especially those outside the mainstream. With fractions of a cent earned per stream, many musicians must find alternative revenue sources—whether through live performances, merchandise, or direct fan support—to continue creating music.

Moreover, algorithm-driven discovery has changed how music finds its way to listeners. While this can help emerging artists break through, it also means that visibility is often dictated by platform mechanics rather than organic audience engagement. This raises an important question: Is streaming fostering artistic diversity, or are algorithms reinforcing homogeneity?

For those interested in a deeper dive into the latest trends and statistics, I recommend checking out the recent report by Dynamic Media, which explores the evolving dynamics of streaming in 2025. You can read more about it here.

On a personal note, all four of my albums, including the latest Visions of Transcendence, are available for streaming on all major platforms. If you prefer a more immersive, tangible experience, all albums are available on CD, and Visions of Transcendence is also available on vinyl.

Your continued support of independent music means the world to artists like myself.

Thank you for being part of this musical journey.

Simon

simonsammut.com

Buy Simon Sammut's music here on melodija.eu