This really resonates with what I've seen artists struggle with - the disconnect between vanity metrics and actual fan engagement. Your point about playlist adds being particularly misleading is spot on. I've noticed that artists who get algorithmically placed often see their streaming numers spike without any corresponding growth in email lists, merch sales, or concert attendance. The passive vs. intentional listening distinction is crucial - being background music while someone works out is fundamentally different from someone seeking out your music deliberately. I think the shift you're recommending toward repeat behaviors rather than spikes is essential, but it requires a complete reframing of how we measure success in the streaming age. The challenge is that labels and investors still speak the language of these vanity metrics, creating real pressure to optimize for the wrong things.
Thanks for a great comment! You're absolutely right that labels and investors speak the language of vanity metrics such as streams.
From their perspective, these are more actionable metrics than they are for artists. Generating streams is a revenue-driven objective for labels, while artists and their teams should focus on building market value.
Higher booking fees, larger capacity venues, securing higher-value brand partnerships, etc., are the long-term "north star" metrics artists should aim for. :)
Labels can be great for artists, but it's crucial for them to distinguish the label's objectives from their own.
This really resonates with what I've seen artists struggle with - the disconnect between vanity metrics and actual fan engagement. Your point about playlist adds being particularly misleading is spot on. I've noticed that artists who get algorithmically placed often see their streaming numers spike without any corresponding growth in email lists, merch sales, or concert attendance. The passive vs. intentional listening distinction is crucial - being background music while someone works out is fundamentally different from someone seeking out your music deliberately. I think the shift you're recommending toward repeat behaviors rather than spikes is essential, but it requires a complete reframing of how we measure success in the streaming age. The challenge is that labels and investors still speak the language of these vanity metrics, creating real pressure to optimize for the wrong things.
Thanks for a great comment! You're absolutely right that labels and investors speak the language of vanity metrics such as streams.
From their perspective, these are more actionable metrics than they are for artists. Generating streams is a revenue-driven objective for labels, while artists and their teams should focus on building market value.
Higher booking fees, larger capacity venues, securing higher-value brand partnerships, etc., are the long-term "north star" metrics artists should aim for. :)
Labels can be great for artists, but it's crucial for them to distinguish the label's objectives from their own.