My Take on the IFPI GMC 2025 Report.

The future of the music industry is as cut and dry as it gets. We have been engulfed in the streaming era of music. This era is dominated by streaming/streams, globalization, and AI ghost writers. Recent findings from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), show that recorded music profits have grown for ten consecutive years. Largely driven by paid subscription streaming (apple music and Spotify come to mind). That growth suggests stability in this new era but not unlimited expansion. The next phase will be less about explosive growth and more about strategic evolution.

First, streaming will remain dominant, but its economics will continue to shift. Most major markets in North America and Europe are approaching subscription saturation. As a result, companies may focus on pricing tiers, bundled services, and superfan monetization. Imagine if a big brand such as Disney buys Spotify and says “get our bundle, NOW with Spotify for…” now suddenly your Hulu/Disney plus also is Spotify, all the while STILL with ads. We may also see more differentiation in streaming experiences. Apple music supposedly offers a higher quality audio while Spotify sticks exclusive content/leaked songs. Streaming is WORLDWIDE, it is only a matter of time until other less fortunate countries are granted access to this domain.

Second, globalization will deepen. The rise of K-pop, Afrobeats, and Latin music over the past decade shows that audiences are increasingly comfortable crossing language barriers. K-pop Demon Hunters and Bad Bunny are BOTH non English centered icons that have stolen the spotlight of the American norms since their debut. From the record breaking success of the musical score and soundtrack of KPOPDH but also with Bad Bunny breaking the record for most watched SB with his performance. Social media platforms and algorithmic discovery tools allow songs to go viral regardless of origin. In the future, “global hits” may become even more culturally diverse. You couldn’t speak to your average child without them singing “Soda-pop”.

Third, artificial intelligence will be both transformative and controversial. AI tools are already being used in songwriting assistance, mastering, recommendation algorithms, and fan engagement. At the same time, AI-generated music raises serious copyright and compensation concerns. Industry organizations, labels, and governments will likely push for clearer regulations to protect artists’ intellectual property while still allowing innovation. The balance between creative opportunity and ethical responsibility will define the next decade. We have also seen many artists, notably NBA Youngboy and The Weeknd have sold their catalogs in hopes of retaining all of the future rights to their music, why? Fear of AI taking over and replacing all of their hits with all types of remixes, it is already happening with all of the “Baby Boo” remixes presented by TikTok.

Finally, live performance and fan communities will remain central. As streaming revenue stabilizes, touring, merchandise, and experiential events will continue to drive artist income and deepen loyalty. Fans increasingly want access, authenticity, and participation. Not just passive listening. Take The Weeknd for example, #1 across multiple metrics but still does so much for his fans. Yes, he does care about the fans but it so that his music doesn’t become a thing of the past and stale, all the tours, fan merch, exclusives are to stick to the music. Gives a lasting impact if you will. Many more artists are starting to follow this trend; a current example is Cardi B and her current miss drama tour.

Overall, the future of the music industry is not one of decline but reinvention. Growth will be steadier, competition more global, and technology more embedded in creativity. Success will depend on availability and whatever is more sufficient in the eye of the public.