Musosoup’s Industry Noodles: 14th October
Welcome to Musosoup’s Industry Noodles, where we serve up the juiciest music industry news for emerging artists! Grab your chopsticks and let’s dive into this week’s highlights.
African Streaming Service Mdundo Hits 37.8M Monthly Active Users
Picture of the staff at Mdundo.
Africa-focused music streaming service Mdundo has reported continued strong growth, reaching 37.8 million monthly active users (MAUs) as of September 20241. This marks a 29.5% year-over-year increase. Despite facing economic challenges, Mdundo's paid subscription revenue jumped 112% in local currency terms. This growth highlights the potential for independent musicians to reach a vast audience in emerging markets
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Latin Music Generates Record $685M in US Revenues
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) reported that Latin music generated a record $685 million in revenues in the first half of 2024, up 7% from the previous year. Paid streaming subscriptions continue to drive this growth, accounting for two-thirds of the revenue. This trend underscores the importance of streaming platforms for independent Latin artists looking to break into the US market.
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Spotify Launches Free Tier in South Korea
Spotify has introduced a free, ad-supported tier in South Korea, aiming to expand its audience base. Since its launch in the country in 2021, Spotify has seen significant growth in streams of South Korean artists. This move provides independent musicians with more opportunities to be discovered by a wider audience.
Handy Links
Billboard Article on Spotify's Free Tier in South Korea
The Independent Becomes Official Apple Music Curator
The Independent has partnered with Apple Music to become an official global curator. The publication will curate playlists featuring the best new tracks, including debut songs from emerging artists. This partnership offers independent musicians a valuable platform to gain exposure and connect with new listeners.
Handy Links
The Independent Launches as Global Curator on Apple Music
Music Minds Matter Reveals First Industry Allies
Music Minds Matter, a UK charity supporting mental health in the music industry, has announced its first industry allies. This initiative aims to provide resources and support for independent musicians facing mental health challenges. The collaboration highlights the importance of mental well-being for artists' long-term success.
The first organizations to join the Music Minds Matter Allies initiative are:
BIMM Music Institute .
British Phonographic Industry (BPI)
Featured Artist Coalition (FAC)
Music Managers Forum (MMF)
Musicians' Union (MU)
We Are The Unheard (WATU)
These organizations are committed to increasing awareness and providing mental health support to their members and networks within the music industry
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Musicians and Music Companies Can Now Register Music Domains
A new service allows musicians and music companies to register music domains, providing a unique online presence for their brands. This tool can help independent artists establish a professional online identity and enhance their marketing efforts.
Key Insights for Independent Musicians:
Unique Branding: Registering a .music domain allows artists to create a memorable and professional online identity, making it easier for fans and industry professionals to find and connect with them.
Enhanced SEO: A .music domain can improve search engine optimization (SEO) by clearly indicating the content is music-related, potentially driving more traffic to the artist's website.
Credibility and Trust: Using a .music domain can enhance credibility and trust with fans, as it signifies a legitimate and dedicated music presence.
Marketing Opportunities: Artists can use their .music domain to centralize all their online content, including music, videos, tour dates, and merchandise, making it a comprehensive hub for their fans.
Handy Links
Music Domains Registration Service
Benefits of a .Music Domain for Artists
SEO Advantages of Using a .Music Domain
Round Launches Tool for Micro-Influencer Music Campaigns
Round, a marketing platform, has launched a tool specifically designed for micro-influencer music campaigns. This tool enables independent musicians to collaborate with influencers and reach niche audiences effectively. It's a great way for emerging artists to build their fanbase and increase their visibility.
Key Insights for Independent Musicians:
Targeted Reach: The tool allows artists to connect with influencers who have highly engaged audiences, typically ranging from 5,000 to 99,000 followers.
Content Analysis: Round's tool analyzes influencers based on content type, music usage, location, and relevant hashtags, making it easier to create effective campaigns.
Simplified Campaigns: Artists can book influencer campaigns with the same simplicity and targeting as traditional social media ad platforms.
Cost-Effective: Collaborating with micro-influencers can be more budget-friendly compared to working with top-tier influencers, while still reaching a dedicated audience.
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Spotify Explores Gen Z Trends: Blendships and Mainstreaming
Spotify has introduced new features to explore Gen Z trends, including Blendshipsand Mainstreaming. Blendships allow users to discover new music by blending their favorite playlists with those of others, while Mainstreaming helps identify emerging trends. These features can help independent musicians understand and tap into the preferences of younger audiences.
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That’s a wrap for this week’s edition of Musosoup’s Industry Noodles. We’ll be back next week for more insights and opportunities that can help you carve your path in the music industry.