L3 Unit 4: Assignment Research and Notes
Affordances definition: the quality or property of an object that defines its possible uses or makes clear how it can or should be used
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/affordance
The music industry has seen some of the most significant changes thanks to technological advancement. Here are some of the most significant breakthroughs in commercial music technology:
1. Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
DAWs have revolutionised music production, replacing analogue tape recorders. These software applications offer a versatile platform for recording, editing, mixing and mastering audio. With features like virtual instruments, effects and automation, DAWs have empowered musicians and producers to create complex productions in home studios.
2. Auto-Tune
Popularised by its use in hip-hop and pop music, Auto-Tune is a pitch correction software that can drastically alter a vocal performance. While often associated with a robotic sound, Auto-Tune has evolved to offer more subtle and natural pitch correction options.
3. Streaming services
Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal have transformed music consumption. By providing on-demand access to vast music libraries, streaming services have disrupted the traditional music industry and created new revenue streams for artists.
4. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
Immersive technologies like VR and AR are reshaping the music experience. Virtual concerts, interactive music videos and augmented reality music games are becoming increasingly popular, offering fans new ways to engage with artists and music.
5. Social media
Social media platforms have become essential tools for musicians to connect with fans, promote their music and build a loyal following. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube offer opportunities for artists to share their creative process, interact with fans and generate revenue through advertising and merchandise.
Overall, as technology continues to evolve, the music industry will undoubtedly see even more innovative changes, shaping the future of music in ways we can only begin to imagine. Whether you’re an artist, producer or enthusiast, staying informed about these developments can be helpful when it comes to navigating and finding success in the exciting world of commercial music.
1. Discovery becomes harder — and more dependent on algorithms
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With millions of songs released each year, human discovery (e.g. through blogs, word-of-mouth, or radio) can’t keep up.
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Streaming platforms’ algorithms and playlist curators gain enormous power — they become the main gatekeepers of attention.
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Artists who “fit” algorithmic trends or genres are favored, while more idiosyncratic or experimental work can struggle to surface.
3. The long tail grows — but so does inequality
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Digital platforms allow anyone to upload music, creating a massive “long tail” of obscure content.
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However, revenue and listens are highly concentrated at the top — a small fraction of artists capture the vast majority of streams and income.
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Most uploaded tracks may receive very few or zero plays, reinforcing a winner-takes-most dynamic.
- Technical proficiency: This includes the physical ability to play an instrument or sing with accuracy, control, and consistent rhythm.
- Musical literacy: This involves the ability to read and write music notation, such as understanding notes, clefs, and rhythmic values.
- Aural skills: These are often considered "internal" skills and include a keen ability to listen, recognize pitches, and understand rhythmic patterns, even without written music.
- Musical knowledge: This encompasses a broad understanding of musical concepts, such as the relationship between pitch and tube length in a woodwind instrument, the different parts of a song (like unison or backing vocals), and how a piece of music can tell a story.
- Ensemble and performance skills: These are the abilities needed to play or sing with others, such as listening to the group, following a leader, and interacting with fellow musicians.
- Cultural understanding: For many forms of traditional music, skills are tied to a specific culture or heritage, and performing these skills can be a way of preserving and passing down traditions.
- Foundation for all music: Many of these skills are considered foundational, regardless of musical style, providing a base for both classical and contemporary music.
- Oral tradition: In many cultures, music was historically passed down through oral tradition, making skills like memorization, improvisation, and aural recognition paramount.
- Preservation of heritage: Playing traditional music can be a way of preserving cultural heritage, as these skills are often specific to a particular community or tradition.
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