Leeds, a city renowned for its vibrant art scenes and rich musical heritage, is home to numerous talented local artists seeking recognition and exposure for their exceptional work.
Streaming platforms have surged in popularity as a means for local artists to reach wider audiences with their music and creative works. Taylor Swift’s songs exemplify this trend, having amassed an impressive 56.2 billion streams on Spotify alone.
Furthermore, Drake, an internationally acclaimed artist in the R&B and pop genres, has amassed a staggering 62.2 billion streams on Spotify.
Here are several strategies for local Leeds artists to utilize streaming platforms as a means to reach global audiences.
Prioritising User Privacy & Safety When Choosing Streaming Platforms
As an artist, it’s important to stay informed about privacy policies and rules on various streaming platforms. This knowledge will enable you to make an informed decision regarding the most suitable platform for your streaming needs.
Comparing streaming platforms, as shown by ExpressVPN, reveals which streaming platform is best for user privacy. For example, Spotify holds the largest market share, but its extensive data collection policy for advertising raises concerns. As for Apple Music, their privacy policy is considered user-friendly and comprehensive in the technology industry because it gives users control over their privacy settings.
Local artists utilize streaming platforms to enhance their visibility and gain acknowledgement. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential hazards associated with this online practice. Streaming on unreliable platforms can expose artists to cyber-attacks and data breaches, jeopardizing their personal information and creative content.
According to securelist.com, in 2021, it was found that cybercriminals were using malware to target streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV. The malware was designed to steal personal information and financial data from users.
Therefore, it is essential for artists to utilize platforms that offer robust user privacy policies.
Leveraging Algorithms, Playlists, and a Global Stage
According to Forbes, streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and Amazon Music are platforms that reach a global audience with ease. Unlike the limitations of physical distribution, these platforms provide a virtual stage where local musicians can share their work.
In 2008, exactly 5 months after the launch of Spotify, up to a million users streamed on the platform. As of 2023, it was estimated to have 515 million active users every month around the globe. So, it currently tops as the highest-used streaming service for global music visibility on earth.
Algorithms and playlists on these platforms are crucial in connecting listeners with new and local music. They circulate the most listened-to songs and resurface old favorites, while also promoting new music from upcoming artists that align with the listeners’ preferences. This increases the chances for local artists to gain global recognition and exposure.
Leveraging Collaborations & Breaking Down Geographical Boundaries
In the past, geographical barriers posed challenges for local artists aiming to collaborate with talented individuals and create music together. However, with the advent of technology, this limitation is gradually diminishing.
Musicians in Leeds have the opportunity to collaborate with producers and artists globally, enhancing their sound diversity. Streaming platforms enable instant music sharing, facilitating local artists’ connection with fans worldwide and surpassing previous geographical barriers.
Playlists and streaming platforms have revolutionized music consumption and sharing. They have fostered equality in the industry by providing emerging artists with a global platform to showcase their music and potentially achieve worldwide acclaim.
