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STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY WELCOME 3
Welcome
ime and time again, The increasingly connected global
T throughout my career, I have music landscape is enabling us to
been privileged to witness explore new genres, sounds and artists,
music’s power to bring us together. no matter where they originate, and for
Language and culture may vary, but artists to enjoy the opportunities that
music transcends borders and unites us. I have had to engage with audiences
This year’s Global Music Report around the world.
explores how music has become truly As this journey continues, we must
global – more so than ever before. ensure the right environment is created
Through the work and dedication of to make this success sustainable for
artists, record companies and their the future; we must continue to work
partners, music from vibrant and to establish a music ecosystem that is
diverse regions is being sought out healthy and open to all, where music is
and loved by fans in every corner of valued and respected. PLÁCIDO DOMINGO
the world. CHAIRMAN, IFPI
This is an exciting We are succeeding In an attention
time of growth for because – even as economy, even the
the music industry traditional ways of most original and
and we’ve increased doing business are compelling talent
our investment being upended – we’ve needs amplification to
in talent and the worked to anticipate cut through the noise.
creative process. music’s creative and We have the creative
We’re partnering commercial evolution expertise, global
with our artists to and continued investing impact, and cultural
continue advancing in our artists, driving influence to make
innovative and unique innovation and actively sure our artists aren’t
opportunities to shaping our future by just heard, but that
connect with audiences continuing to transform fans all over the world
in more corners of the ourselves. genuinely engage,
world than ever before. react and care.
ROB STRINGER SIR LUCIAN GRAINGE MAX LOUSADA
CEO, Sony Music Chairman & Chief CEO of Recorded Music,
Entertainment Executive Officer, Warner Music Group
Universal Music Group
NIELSEN MUSIC CONNECT
THE INDUSTRY’S PREMIER MUSIC PERFORMANCE
MEASUREMENT PLATFORM
Gain access to the industry-leading global data analysis platform that delivers
a comprehensive view of music streaming and sales for artists and songs
in a single Web-based tool.
To learn more, contact Music@nielsen.com
Copyright © 2019 The Nielsen Company (US), LLC. All Rights Reserved.
IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY CONTENTS 5
Contents
State of the Industry
6 Global Music Market 2018 in Numbers
7 Introduction - Frances Moore
8 Global Charts
12 Global Market Overview
15 2018 Figures by Format
16 2018 Figures by Region
18 The Dynamic Nature of High-Potential Markets
24 The Global Story of Local Genres
26 Case Study: Aya Nakamura
27 Case Study: George Ezra
29 Case Study: J Balvin
30 The Value of a Label
36 Fostering Fair Marketplaces so Music Continues to Thrive
www.ifpi.org © IFPI 2019
@IFPI_org All data, copy and images are subject to copyright and may not be
Designed by Data Design reproduced, transmitted or made available without permission from IFPI
6 GLOBAL MUSIC MARKET 2018 IN NUMBERS IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
Global Music
Market 2018
in Numbers
+9.7%
Global revenue
+32.9% Growth in
growth paid streaming
revenues
+34.0%
Growth in
46.9%
Streaming
overall streaming share of global
revenues revenues
-21.2% Download
-10.1%
Physical
revenue revenue
decline decline
IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY INTRODUCTION 7
Introduction
Music becomes truly global
usic has truly become global – Korea fuelling growth. The Middle East
M in ways never before imagined. and North Africa are now commanding
From the South Korean boy attention. Crucially, these territories,
band, BTS, capturing the hearts of fans and the artists emerging from them,
from Seoul to Rio, to the Colombian are already reaping real benefit. Record
reggaeton singer, J Balvin, taking his place company investment, local partnerships
amongst the global pop elite, to emerging and increasing availability of mobile data
stars like Mali-born French artist, Aya have given rise to a rich and diverse global
Nakamura, showing language is no barrier landscape with fans in each territory
to reaching beyond home borders. The accessing music through a unique and
global music community has never been evolving combination of formats and
more connected, and fans and artists alike services. As this continues, revenue is FRANCES MOORE
are seizing the opportunities of this new returned to the artists, the cultures and CHIEF EXECUTIVE, IFPI
era to enjoy and share the music they love, the communities to spark the next cycle
no matter where it comes from. of creative endeavour.
We have now seen four consecutive Record companies continue to hone
years of growth, driven by great music their partnerships with artists, offering
from incredible artists in partnership expertise and resources on the ground
with talented, passionate people in record to help navigate these landscapes and
companies around the world who help bring their music to their fans in the most
them realise their creative and commercial effective and affecting ways.
potential. Today, this partnership takes There is still much to be achieved to
many forms, with artists drawing on the ensure that these positive developments
extensive expertise and resources record continue at pace. We are campaigning for
companies provide. Ultimately, it is forged music to be fairly valued in all its forms.
on the simple premise of a shared love of We are working for music copyright to
music and mutual respect. be recognised and respected around
One of the most exciting aspects of the world, and we remain committed to
this global growth is the regions driving establishing a level playing field when it
it. For the fourth year in a row, Latin comes to negotiating a fair deal for those
America has seen the largest regional who create music. Above all, we are
growth, with countries like Brazil leading working to ensure that music continues
the way. Asia has become a world player, on its exciting, global journey.
with markets like China and South
8 GLOBAL CHARTS IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
Global
Charts
The most popular artists
and best sellers of 2018
IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY GLOBAL CHARTS 9
Top 10 Global Recording Artists
01 02
Drake BTS
03 04
Ed Sheeran Post Malone
05 06
Eminem Queen
07 08
Imagine Ariana
Dragons Grande
09 10
Lady Gaga Bruno Mars
IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY GLOBAL CHARTS 11
Global Top 10 Global Top 10
Digital Singles Albums
of 2018 of 2018
Artist & Title Global converted Artist & Title Global converted
single units (m) single units (m)
01
01
Camila Cabello
19.0 Cast of 'The Greatest Showman' 3.5
(feat. Young Thug)
The Greatest Showman (OST)
Havana
02 02
Drake 15.3 BTS 2.7
God's Plan Love Yourself 結 'Answer'
03 03
Ed Sheeran 14.9 BTS 2.3
Shape of You Love Yourself 轉 'Tear'
04 04
Ed Sheeran 13.5 Lady Gaga 1.9
Perfect A Star Is Born (OST)
05
05
Maroon 5
11.9 Johnny Hallyday 1.7
(feat. Cardi B)
Mon Pays C'est L'amour
Girls Like You
06
06
Luis Fonsi
11.8 Ed Sheeran 1.3
(feat. Daddy Yankee)
Despacito
÷
07 07
Tia Ray 10.9 Queen 1.2
Be Apart Bohemian Rhapsody
08
08
The Chainsmokers
10.0 P!nk 1.2
& Coldplay
Beautiful Trauma
Something Just Like This
09
09
Marshmello
9.6 Eminem 1.0
& Anne-Marie
Kamikaze
FRIENDS
10 10
Post Malone Cast of 'Mamma Mia! 0.9
9.2
(feat. Ty Dolla $ign) Here We Go Again'
Psycho Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (OST)12 GLOBAL MARKET OVERVIEW IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
Global
Market
Overview
Dynamic, diverse markets
drive global growth
In 2018, the global recorded music market grew This growth was predominantly driven by a 32.9%
by 9.7%. It is the fourth consecutive year of global rise in paid streaming, that now accounts for 37.0%
growth and the highest rate of growth since IFPI of total revenue.
Fuelled by the continued investment from
began tracking the market in 1997. record companies, the global story is one of
dynamic, diverse markets evolving rapidly and
finding routes to growth. Within the top 10, some
of the fastest growing markets are in Asia and Latin
America (South Korea, Brazil) with Asia becoming
the second largest region for physical and digital
music combined for the first time.
Artists from these evolving markets are also
seizing the opportunities to break out to a global
audience. Working in partnership with record
companies and supported by their resources and
understanding of the different music landscapes,
artists are enjoying global success. As they and
their music resonate with fans in different parts of
the globe, revenue is returned to help fuel the next
creative cycle.
As these high-potential markets continue to
develop and seize these opportunities, it is crucial
that the right foundations are in place to support
their sustainable, long-term development. Music
copyright must be recognised and respected, and
the music being enjoyed in its increasingly varied
formats must be valued fairly.
Ariana Grande photo by Dave MeyersIFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY GLOBAL MARKET OVERVIEW 13
25 0.6
0.7
Global Recorded Music
0.8
Industry
1.0
Revenues 2001-2018 (US$ Billions)
1.0
20 1.0 0.4
25 0.6 1.2
0.4
0.7 0.4 2.7
1.3 0.3
0.8 1.0 1.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.4 2.4
15 1.0 0.3 2.3
20 1.0 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.8 4.7
0.4
1.2 1.9 2.0
23.3 5.2
0.4
21.7 18.1 16.4 5.6
0.4 2.7
10 20.0 19.4 14.2 1.3
12.0 2.3
10.5
1.3 0.3
9.0 0.3
8.3 0.3
7.7 6.8
0.3 0.4
5.8 2.4
15 6.0
0.3 2.3
1.4 1.5 1.6 2.6 4.7
1.8 1.9 2.0
23.3 3.2 5.2
5 21.7 3.8 5.6 8.9
10 20.0 19.4 18.1 16.4 14.2 12.0 4.0 2.3
2.0 10.5 9.0 8.3
4.3 7.7
4.4 4.3
6.8 5.8 6.7
3.4 3.7 3.9 6.0 4.7
1.0 2.7 2.9 2.6
0.4 0.1 0.4 0.7 1.0 1.4 1.9
0 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.4 3.2
5 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
3.8 2016 2017 2018
8.9
4.4 4.3 4.0
Total revenue 2.0 3.7 3.9 4.3 6.7
1.0 2.7 3.4 4.7
$US billions 23.9 22.4 20.8 20.8
0.4
20.2 19.6 18.4 17.1 16.0 15.1 15.0 15.1 14.8 14.3
1.9
14.8
2.9 16.2 17.4 19.1
0 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.7 1.0 1.4
Physical Digital
2001 (excluding
2002 streaming)
2003 2004 Streaming
2005 2006Performance
2007 rights
2008 Synchronisation
2009 2010 revenues2012
2011 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Total revenue
$US billions 23.9 22.4 20.8 20.8 20.2 19.6 18.4 17.1 16.0 15.1 15.0 15.1 14.8 14.3 14.8 16.2 17.4 19.1
Physical Digital (excluding streaming) Streaming Performance rights Synchronisation revenues
Global Recorded Music Top Ten Music Markets 2018
Revenues by Segment 2018
Synchronisation
revenues
2% USA South Korea
Performance 14%
rights
Synchronisation 25%
revenues Japan China
2% Physical USA South Korea
Performance
Downloads & 12% 14%
rights
other digital 25% UK Australia
Subscription Japan China
Physical
audio streams
Downloads &
Ad-supported 10%
12% Germany Canada
other digital
Streams UK Australia
37% Subscription
audio streams France Brazil
Ad-supported 10% Germany Canada
Streams
37%
↑9.7% 58.9% 255m
France Brazil
global recorded music digital music share users of paid
market growth of global revenue subscription accounts
BTS photo courtesy of Big Hit EntertainmentWe are proud to bring millions of Hi-Res tracks to USA music lovers As of February 2019, Qobuz is now available in 11 countries and USA. Qobuz supports creators of all genres from around the world and delivers the highest quality audio and content. We Are The Music Lovers.
IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 2018 FIGURES BY FORMAT 15
2018 Figures
by Format
Global recorded music revenues totalled
US$19.1 billion in 2018, a 9.7% increase on
2017 and a faster rate of growth than the
previous year (+7.4%)
Digital Physical
revenue revenue
↑21.1% ↓10.1%
Overall digital revenues grew by 21.1% to US$11.2 Physical format revenue saw continued decline
billion in 2018, crossing the US$10 billion mark for in 2018, dropping by 10.1% and now accounting
the first time ever and now accounting for 58.9% of for around a quarter of the total market (24.7%).
total recorded music revenues. Within this format, As in the previous year, the majority of markets
the picture was varied with streaming pushing saw a decrease in physical format revenues, but a
growth up strongly (increasing by 34.0% to US$8.9 small number of markets bucked the trend, posting
billion), while downloads saw a decline of 21.2%, growth (India +21.2%; Japan +2.3%; South Korea
dropping to 7.7% of the total market. +28.8%), and physical revenues still constitute
Paid audio streaming in particular was again a significant percentage of the market in some
a key driver (+32.9%), with almost all markets countries (representing 71%, 47% and 35% of the
reporting growth in this area. Digital now makes up market in Japan, Poland and Germany respectively).
more than 50% of revenue in 38 markets. Revenues from vinyl also sustained their upward
trajectory, posting growth for the thirteenth
consecutive year, growing 6.0% and maintaining a
Performance 3.6% share of the overall market.
rights revenue
↑9.8% Synchronisation
revenue
Revenues from performance rights – use of recorded
music by broadcasters and public venues – climbed
in 2018, seeing an increase of 9.8%. Totalling US$2.7
↑5.2%
billion, performance rights revenue represents Synchronisation – the revenue from the use of music
14.0% of total recorded music industry revenues. in advertising, film, games and TV – posted growth
of 5.2%, a more modest rate than the previous year
(14.6%) but maintaining a 2.3% share of the total
music market.16 2018 FIGURES BY REGION IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
2018 Figures
by Region
↑11.7%
Asia and
Australasia
2018 saw Asia and Australasia move up to become
the second largest global region for physical and
digital revenue combined, posting growth of 11.7%.
↑16.8%
There was strong growth in digital (+26.8%), driven
by paid audio streaming (+29.5%), which offset a
continued decline in downloads (-7.1%). China, a
new entrant in the global top 10 the previous year,
rose to seventh position in 2018. The region’s largest Latin America
market, Japan, also saw growth (3.4%) following a
decline of 2.9% the previous year. This was driven
by gains in streaming (+32.6%) coupled with a
return to growth in physical revenues (+2.3%).
South Korea (+17.9%) and Australia (+11.0%) also Latin America grew by 16.8%, once again the
recorded notable growth. highest rate of growth globally. The region reflected
global trends with declines in physical revenue
(-37.8%) and downloads (-45.0%), but strong
results in streaming (+39.3%). Brazil, the largest
market in Latin America, continued its upward
trajectory, increasing by 15.4% and recording one
of the highest rates of growth in digital in the top 10
markets (38.5%). Chile, Mexico and Colombia also
saw notable gains, increasing by 16.3%, 14.7% and
9.0% respectively.IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 2018 FIGURES BY REGION 17
Streaming revenues, particularly from
paid subscriptions, continued to grow in
2018, with all regions posting growth in
this area. Overall, growth trends were
more diverse across different markets
↑0.1%
Europe
Europe posted modest growth (+0.1%) in 2018,
with a varied picture for countries across the
region. There was growth in some of the Nordic
↑14.0%
markets, with Sweden and Norway growing 2.8%
and 1.7% respectively, and strong growth in markets
such as Austria (+20.0%) and Ireland (+7.5%).
Germany was the only top 10 European market to
see a decline in revenues (-9.9%), partly due to North America
its continued transition away from a physical-led
market, and was overtaken by the UK (+3.1%) as the
largest market in the region.
Overall, paid streaming in Europe rose by
29.2%, whilst physical revenues fell by 19.4% and North America recorded another year of double-
downloads by 24.3%. Performance rights revenue digit growth, increasing by 14.0%, albeit at a
for the region dropped by 6.7%, the steepest slightly lower rate than in 2017 (+17.1%). Strong
decline in this area of any region, contributing to streaming growth (+33.4%) offset the decline
the territory’s overall slower growth. in physical revenues (-22.0%), which showed a
markedly faster rate of decline than the previous
year (-4.3%). Whilst Canada remained flat (+0.5%),
the US posted an increase of 15.0% and maintained
its position as the world’s largest music market. A
predominantly digital market (74.2% of recorded
music revenues), the fastest growing format in the
US was paid streaming, which accounted for well
over half (59.4%) of digital revenue.18 THE DYNAMIC NATURE OF HIGH-POTENTIAL MARKETS IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
The Dynamic
Nature of
High-Potential
Markets
Record companies’ increased ‘A WILLINGNESS TO INVEST FOR THE
levels of investment – alongside LONG TERM’
the continuous geographical roll- Adam Granite, Executive Vice President, Market
Development, Universal Music, says: “Every market
out of infrastructure – is driving requires a unique approach, but I think what’s most
the dynamic development of encouraging in all these high-potential markets is
high-potential markets. As part that local repertoire is growing significantly.”
of this process, record companies The one common thread linking the territories,
are taking their artists’ music to an he continues, is “a determination to find the best
ever-expanding and truly global artists, the importance of our local teams, and a
willingness to invest for the long term.”
audience, whilst fans are benefiting Jeremy Marsh, Chief Global Marketing
from easy access to an increasingly Office, Warner Music, says: “Many predicted the
diverse catalogue of licensed music, globalised world of streaming would see Anglo
discovered and developed around repertoire flood other markets. But while
the world. international opportunities for Anglo artists have
increased, we’re also seeing a huge flow of music
back the other way. We’ve seen this with music
For recorded music, a high-potential market from markets such as Latin America and Korea, and
is typically classed as a country or region with we’re starting to see it with music from regions like
a significant population, measured in tens, Africa too.”
sometimes hundreds, of millions. They are markets
that are becoming increasingly connected, and
increasingly digital, but where consumption,
particularly the legitimate and monetised Every market requires
consumption, of music is significantly lower, per a unique approach,
capita, than would be expected in a mature and but I think what’s most
developed territory. Treated as a group, these
markets, even with modest penetration, could encouraging in all these
provide a major uplift to the global streaming high-potential markets
population. Led by record companies, the process is that local repertoire is
of growing high-potential markets is one that is
providing substantial benefits and opportunities growing significantly.
for artists and fans alike, cross-pollinating music
and consumers around the world by channelling ADAM GRANITE
Executive Vice President, Market Development,
resources and focus on local territories. Universal MusicIFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY THE DYNAMIC NATURE OF HIGH-POTENTIAL MARKETS 19
With access to streaming,
people are able to really
take a deep dive into Latin
music and that’s great for
the artists and great for
the culture.
AFO VERDE
Chairman/CEO of Sony Music Latin Iberia
“Right now, we have a very
expansive infrastructure to
follow consumer trends globally,
and to understand how our
artists are interacting with their
audiences in different markets.”
All this, continues Lopes,
is key to developing an artist’s
global career: “We’re speaking
to more than 40,000 music
fans across 20 markets, and
that number is growing every
quarter, to understand how
Colleen Theis, COO of distribution company the consumption is changing. What are the fans’
The Orchard, a unit of Sony Music Entertainment, preferences in these markets? How do they
says: “We've 40 offices all around the world that are consume music? What is the profile of our artists
always looking for music that has local meaning. in these different places and how can we optimise
What’s exciting is that today we’re also able to the campaigns of our artists there?”
take this across borders and introduce people to Dennis Kooker, President, Global Digital
music that you wouldn't traditionally think is in that Business & US Sales, Sony Music Entertainment,
country or culture’s wheelhouse.” explains the need for this level of insight into each
Orchard’s CEO, Brad Navin, believes this is being individual music market: “While the world is more
driven by a younger cohort of music fans gaining globally connected than it has ever been, especially
access to streaming services: “The generation of in the way that we release music, the development
music fans that are now on streaming platforms are of the business market by market is vastly different
younger and have a completely different mindset. and we cannot make the mistake of falling into a
They think globally and great music is crossing over one-size-fits-all approach.”
regardless of language.”
Granite picks up on the increasing opportunities ‘IN LATIN AMERICA, OUR A&R
for Anglo artists to connect with global audiences: TEAMS WORK CONSTANTLY TO CREATE
“Our local teams actively help grow our artists’ GLOBAL HITS’
audiences, and this amazing repertoire is now Today, record companies are discovering artists in
being heard and loved in parts of the world that what were traditionally more regionally focussed
were previously unreachable or, if they were markets and then not only establishing them
reachable, were not monetised. Now they’re on a domestically, but also working in a connected and
par with all major markets in terms of their access collective effort to break them globally.
and the quality of the offering.” Iñigo Zabala, President, Latin America & Iberia,
Gabriela Lopes, Senior Vice President, Global Warner Music, says: “In Latin America our A&R
Insight, Universal Music, explains how music teams work constantly to create global hits from
companies use their networks and resources to day one; this is a relatively new state of mind and
build a rich understanding of music fans globally: something that we’re very focussed on.”
Thalia photo by Uriel Santana20 THE DYNAMIC NATURE OF HIGH-POTENTIAL MARKETS IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
These international success stories contribute reflects on the region’s rich musical heritage:
to a virtuous circle which leads to the emergence “We have always had great local music: tango in
of even more local artists. Zabala says: “When Argentina; flamenco in Spain; bossa nova in Brazil;
Latin America delivers mariachi in Mexico; vallenato in
global hits, often in our own Colombia; salsa in the Caribbean.
language, reflecting our own “What is happening now
culture, it creates a feeling is that access to streaming is
16.8%
of community and of pride allowing this to be celebrated
– among our artists and also even more – people are able to
among their fans; they want really take a deep dive into Latin
to be part of this movement.” music and that’s great for the
Far from Latin music revenue growth in artists and great for the culture.”
being a new phenomenon, Latin America
Afo Verde, Chairman/CEO
of Sony Music Latin Iberia,
‘BRAZIL HAS THE POTENTIAL TO BE AN Latin America and Iberian Peninsula, also picks out
INCREDIBLE EXPORTER OF MUSIC’ Brazil as an especially dynamic market. “I think it
Paid streaming not only grants the chance to has been a sleeping giant for years and years, and
discover new music but also to monetize it fairly. the reality is that it’s a country with more than
Sony’s Verde notes that Brazil 200 million people. And it’s a
is one of the best examples. country that loves music.
He says: “Without any doubt, “It is now more open and
there was always huge music connected, and you are seeing
15.4%
consumption in Brazil – it’s a more collaborations between
country that truly has music Brazilian artists and Spanish
at its heart – but, due to artists and Anglo artists. For
copyright infringement, this the first time, I feel Brazil has
was never recognised. When
revenue growth in the potential to be an incredible
consumption began to take the
Brazil exporter of music from the
form of streaming, the results Latin world. As part of that, we
were impressive. We’ll see the are investing a lot in new artists
country go from strength to strength and this will and new repertoire, that is the key to discovering
allow us to continue to support the artists in Brazil.” stars who can be on the world stage.”
Jesús López, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music
‘WE HAVE A MASSIVE FOCUS ON GROWING He also highlights the efforts being made to
DOMESTIC REPERTOIRE’ nurture local artists. “We have
Simon Robson, President, a massive focus on growing
Asia, Warner Music, explains domestic repertoire. If you look
how record companies work at the evolution of digital music
11.7%
with digital service providers markets in Asia, the majority
(or DSPs) to help further grow started with a high proportion
the market in key developing of international repertoire being
territories, encouraging consumed. That was because
fans to move towards paid
revenue growth in early adopters tended to be urban,
subscriptions: “We work as
Asia & Australasia highly educated, well-travelled
closely as possible with all English speakers.
services to help raise the profile of streaming in “We’re now seeing that, as streaming finds a
these countries. That might mean doing events broader audience, there is more interest in domestic
with them, or getting our artists involved in music. We’re trying to help meet that demand by
promotional material. It’s an education process investing heavily in local artists and repertoire.”
and one that we’re keen to be part of.”IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY THE DYNAMIC NATURE OF HIGH-POTENTIAL MARKETS 21
17.9 %
He highlights the importance of short video
content in making music go viral. In fact, the power of
short form video and its potential for Western artists
came together last year in one of Sony Music’s more
revenue growth in quirky success stories. Chan explains: “Olly Murs’ song,
South Korea That Girl, was covered by a young boy in a small town,
trying to impress a girl. His video went viral online. It
'PLAYLISTS HAVE NO BORDERS' boosted Olly’s streaming rates and That Girl went on
South Korea is a market in the process of shifting from to be number one on QQ for three months.” Chan goes
‘potential’ to ‘power player’, driven by the phenomenon on to explain that Murs has responded to this, catching
of K-pop and artists like BTS and BLACKPINK. the attention of the media, who are keen to interview
Spotify has yet to launch in the territory (the him when he visits the country next.
dominant streaming service Meanwhile, he believes that
is local DSP, Melon), but its Chinese artists looking to break
playlists are evidence that the outside of the territory shouldn’t
country’s domestic repertoire is always adapt their style to that
travelling across the world. of Western artists: “Artists often
David Erlandsson, the choose to sing in English in order
company's Data Scientist, says: to break overseas, but English is
“From day one, K-pop has been not their first language, so they
one of the key focus genres cannot compare or compete with
for our editors in Singapore. Western artists in that sense. I
These playlists were originally believe there is another angle.
created for the South East Asian Like we have seen in Korea, there
markets, but, as playlists have is an opportunity to introduce
no borders, their popularity has Western audiences to C-Pop, to
since travelled around the world get them to understand and fall
and there is now a more global in love with the genre and allow
focus on the genre. our artists to find a global stage
“In 2018, markets like Peru, that way.”
Canada, France and Turkey Denis Handlin, Chairman &
all saw more than 100 million CEO, Australia & New Zealand
streams of K-pop artists.” and President, Asia, Sony
Music Entertainment, adds
that record companies need
multiple approaches to achieve
success in Asia. He says: “It
7th
would be flawed to take the
one same approach to all
markets in the region. Through
our relationships with local
China’s market partners across all aspects of the
position globally industry, we do a lot of listening
and learning. Every country is
‘THERE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO GET unique, with its own culture and each country’s fans
WESTERN AUDIENCES TO FALL IN LOVE WITH want something different."
C-POP’'
Andrew Chan, Managing Director of Sony Music in ‘WE RESEARCH, WE LEARN, WE DON’T COME
China, says: “The market here is very exciting as we IN WITH ‘OUR’ MODEL’
are undergoing constant digital transformation. Alfonso Perez Soto, EVP, Eastern Europe, Middle
Importantly, paid subscribers are growing, thanks to East and Africa, Warner Music, says: “The younger
the efforts of the whole industry – but we are still only demographic in territories like Africa, India, the
at around 33 million subscribers, out of a population Middle East and Eastern Europe are all embracing
of 1.4 billion.” technology and getting more connected every day.
In terms of the flow of repertoire, in both directions, That’s something that will completely change the
Chan believes this is the start of a journey. “More and scope of our industry.”
more international artists are being invited onto talent He highlights the MENA region as especially
shows as judges – and sometimes contestants – so dynamic over the last 12 months. “Out of the blue it
there is an increase in the number of Western artists became one of the most exciting and competitive DSP
wishing to come to China.” markets, going from nought to 100 miles per hour in
Tia Ray photo courtesy of Warner Music ChinaIFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY THE DYNAMIC NATURE OF HIGH-POTENTIAL MARKETS 23
We want to enter every
market as a reliable local
player who gives artists the
chance to reach their full
potential in that territory,
while also amplifying their
presence all over the world.
ALFONSO PEREZ SOTO
Executive Vice President, Eastern Europe, Middle East
and Africa, Warner Music
five seconds. I can see the same thing happening
soon in sub-Saharan Africa.
“I think that in all these cases, having local
DSPs in the mix is important, because of their
understanding of the local ecosystem, the
repertoire, the media companies and payment
methods. What we do is meet with them, talk
and work together on a local level. We research, the local community, while also capitalising on
we learn, we don’t come in with ‘our’ model, or a the opportunity that being a global, connected
Western model. company brings, and that is to reach the Arabic-
“When we come into these territories, the speaking community around the world.”
first thing you’ll hear from us is, ‘How can we help Warner opened its dedicated Middle East office
you?’ That’s for all our partners, from artists and in 2018, spanning 17 territories. It is headed up by
managers to DSPs. We want to enter every market Managing Director, Moe Hamzeh. He says: “Our first
as a reliable local player who gives artists the imminent task is to grow our digital business and
chance to reach their full potential in that territory, be able to service DSPs and other partners here, as
while also potentially amplifying their presence all well as servicing and marketing our international
over the world.” roster. Phase two is to start developing and signing
Patrick Boulos, CEO, Universal Music, MENA, is local acts and help support the local culture.”
equally confident about the territory’s potential, “In all that we do, it’s vital to understand the
and sees the labels’ role as multi-faceted. He says: local culture and adapt our practices to it. There are
“A big part of our job is definitely to be at the gaps here, in terms of industry infrastructure, that a
forefront of signing, major record company
developing and can help fill. So, we can
breaking local artists, participate not only
taking them as far as In all that we do, it’s vital in the development
we can, in their home to understand the local of artists, but also the
markets and beyond. culture and adapt our likes of managers,
“We also lobby agents, lawyers and
governments in order practices to it. royalty accountants.
to try and explain and We want to be integral
establish collecting MOE HAMZEH to the development of
Managing Director, Warner Music Middle East
societies, to protect the region into a really
and properly reward valued part of the
creators, artists, writers and producers.” global business – that’s good for us and for local
He also stresses the global potential of artists in artists and industry.”
the region. “The reality is, in a digital world without Universal Music’s Granite sums up recorded
boundaries or frontiers, and where you have music’s engagement with high-potential markets by
large numbers of Arabic-speaking people in the placing the emphasis on a key theme: responsibility.
US, Europe, Central and South America, etc., the He explains: “We set the bar extremely high. When
potential for crossover is huge. The challenge for we are renewing our presence in one of these high-
Universal Music and other labels now is to extend potential markets we do so with responsibility,
our reach within this region in order to discover with respect and ultimately investment in people,
the best new artists, to then promote them to artists, infrastructure and partnerships.”
Asim Azhar photo courtesy of Universal Music Group24 THE GLOBAL STORY OF LOCAL GENRES IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
The Global
Story of
Local Genres
Aligned with the borderless power of
streaming, the increasingly global reach and
mindset of record companies has brought
about a major shift in the opportunities for
artists from all over the world.
On one hand, individual territories are
developing their own stars, artists who use
their own voices to find their own audience
and command the spotlight as much as
traditionally dominant repertoire from the US
and UK. They are being prioritised by labels’
local offices and connecting more than ever
with their domestic fans.
On the other hand, they are looking beyond
their home countries with more ambition
and confidence than ever, encouraged and
propelled by record companies who know
that the next world-straddling track or
breakout superstar can come from anywhere.
Vayu photo by Subhankar Riv BaruiCase Studies
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IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY CASE STUDIES 27
Case
Study
Aya
Nakamura
French rap finding its global voice Alain Veille, Managing Director of Digital, Warner
Music France, explains how Warner was quick to see the
One example of an artist blowing up in her home territory, wider appeal of her music: “It resonated outside of France
while also starting her international journey, is Warner very quickly. Our colleagues in neighbouring countries
France-signed Aya Nakamura. were asking us about her story; they could feel there was
Born in Mali, Nakamura moved to a suburb of Paris something happening.”
as a baby and grew up immersed in - and influenced Veille describes how his team had early discussions
by - both cultures. She started making music as French with surrounding territories, helping them kick-start their
urban music was finding its voice and moving into the own campaigns: “The spread of awareness dovetailed
mainstream. with our strategy of establishing a core fanbase in Aya’s
Thierry Chassagne, President, Warner Music France, community, taking her mainstream throughout France,
says: “The popularity of French rap was driven in part by and then, working with offices on the ground, targeting
streaming, but also by demographics. We have strong territories where the buzz was building.”
Caribbean and African communities here that have been Recognising each market’s inherent differences,
the driving force behind much rap music. campaigns were tailored to build on Nakamura’s already
“At the beginning of the strong roots, whilst adding a
[Aya Nakamura] project, local flavour. Veille describes
especially on the digital one example: “In Germany, we
aspects, we focused on these Djadja went to number recorded a version of Djadja
communities, before expanding one here in its first with a female hip-hop artist
into the wider market. week and is the most called Loredana, who shares
“It was important to have similar values, and is a strong,
this community, her community, audio-streamed track independent woman. That
behind her. She is a very by a woman in France version got accepted by the
empowered woman, and the so far in 2019. streaming platforms and was
idea that somehow the record added to influential German
company could lead the way THIERRY CHASSAGNE
rap playlists.”
without tapping into her roots President, The work paid off. German
and her fanbase, that she’d built Warner Music France radio picked up the track,
herself, would have been wrong eventually choosing to play the
– and would not have worked.” original over the newer, German version.
Nakamura’s first album, Journal intime, was released Djadja has now achieved over 190 million audio
in 2017, reaching number six in the French charts and streams and 315 million video streams worldwide, and
achieving Gold certification. in three territories – Netherlands, Germany and Belgium
Things moved up a gear for her second, self-titled – the numbers are matching what’s been achieved
album, Nakamura – and especially its lead single, Djadja. in France.
Chassagne explains: “It was the perfect situation of Ultimately, Nakamura’s music and ability to connect
the set-up being created by the first album, and then with her fans, coupled with the support and backing from
the second album being preceded by such a big hit. her label, is allowing her to reach an increasing number
Djadja went to number one here in its first week and is of people around the world, as Chassagne explains: “It’s
the most audio-streamed track by a woman in France so a true collaboration within a global structure. We know
far in 2019.” the artist very well, so we can contribute that insight and
Nakamura’s appeal was such that Warner Music drew understanding, we bring the artist’s story. And, of course,
on its global network and began to look for opportunities our colleagues know their territories – their tastemakers,
for the artist outside of her home country. their media, they can recommend collaborations and so
the project is amplified globally.”
Aya Nakamura photo by FIFOU28 CASE STUDIES IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
Case
Study
George
Ezra
Authentic UK talent making global waves natural wit and irreverence, something that comes across
effortlessly in his relationship with his fans.”
George Ezra is undoubtedly one of the biggest breakout It was this desire to allow Ezra’s personality to shine
UK artists of the last five years. With his distinctive through that led to the idea of developing content that
baritone voice and varied musical influences, together went beyond his music.
with his authentic, honest approach to sharing his “George is a big podcast fan and came up with the
music, the Columbia-signed artist has won fans around idea of producing a series of podcasts where he holds
the world. conversations with a range of different musicians (guests
Columbia’s Head of Marketing, Alex Eden-Smith, included Elton John, Nile Rogers and Ed Sheeran). We
explains how, when first were really keen to support
working with Ezra, his musical him and made it a centrepiece
talent and authenticity formed of the campaign. It allowed him
a key strand of the label’s initial Alongside getting his to not only get his personality
strategy: “It was very important music out to as many across but also to bring in the
that he wasn’t seen as just people as possible, the fans of other artists and bring
another singer-songwriter. them back to his music. It's an
He’s an incredibly talented guy goal was to continue engagement loop, if you like.”
with a really distinctive voice; to highlight his Podcasts are just one of
the sole aim had to be to bring personality, his natural the tools in a kit that has had to
that out.” expand exponentially to meet
Ezra’s first single, Budapest, wit and irreverence, the demands of a new kind of
reached No. 3 in the UK charts, something that comes audience, explains Eden-Smith:
and made the Top 40 in the across effortlessly in his “You have to constantly think
US. The single was followed about the brand-new George
by Ezra’s first album, Wanted relationship with Ezra fan who heard their first
On Voyage, which topped the his fans. song yesterday; what’s their
charts in the UK, broke the Top experience going to be? For
20 in the US and went Top 10 in ALEX EDEN-SMITH them it’s a discovery, and you
multiple countries. Global sales Head of Marketing, have to give them ways of
Columbia
stood at just over two million in finding out who George is.
March 2019. “Ultimately, the most
With one album under his belt, and a steadily growing important thing for us was to trust George’s instincts
fanbase, Columbia, together with Ezra, began to plan for — to enable him to create the music he wants to,
the follow-up. Staying At Tamara’s, was released in March whilst finding the tools to help him reach a bigger
2018. It reached No. 1 in the UK where it was also the audience. The conversation was never about making
biggest-selling artist album of 2018. him something he’s not, but about celebrating
Eden-Smith describes the approach to the second and promoting all the best sides of George.”
campaign: “We continued to highlight his personality, his
George Ezra photo courtesy of Sony MusicIFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY CASE STUDIES 29
Case
Study
J
Balvin
Pioneering Latin Music fourth album, Energía, released in 2016], and materialized
with Mi Gente [released in 2017 and appearing on 2018
Trailblazing, Medellín-born, Colombian artist J Balvin has album Vibras].”
pioneered Latin music’s explosion onto the global stage. It was an approach that proved massively successful,
Working in partnership with his record label and pushing Balvin to new heights and huge international
manager, Balvin has captured a global audience with his success. In June 2018, Balvin became the most listened to
unique sound, both through his solo releases and a string artist globally on Spotify, and in September he became the
of high-profile collaborations with artists such as Cardi B, first Latin artist to reach one billion streams on Apple Music.
Beyoncé and Justin Bieber – all whilst staying true to his This accolade was followed two months later by a Latin
Latin roots. GRAMMY in the Best Urban Album category for Vibras.
Angel Kaminsky, Executive Vice President, Latin Kaminsky points to Balvin’s work ethic and strong
America & Iberian Peninsula, sense of self as an artist as key
Universal Music, explains how factors in his success: “He sets
the relationship began: “I first his own rules, he knows what he
met J Balvin in 2012. I travelled He really has a vision to wants. He always says, ‘Believe
to Bogotá to meet this artist who me. I know where I’m going.’ and
was big in Colombia and was take the genre global I say, ‘Okay, we'll follow you.’
also starting to create a big buzz without the need to “He leads with artistic and
in the rest of the region. sing in English. He’s creative direction and we help
“I was immediately struck by him to realise both his short
his creativity, his artistic ability committed to being term and long-term objectives;
and his impeccable work ethic. a global artist while we provide him with an array
He’s such a genuine person and staying close to his of information from data and
this translates to his music and analytics to collaboration
even to the vibes he passes on roots. I believe he has opportunities, but at the end
to other artists and, of course, to accomplished this and of the day it’s his vision and his
his fans.” much, much more. instincts that drive us.”
Working closely as co- This attitude is reflected
managers in partnership with ANGEL KAMINSKY
in Balvin’s decision to fly the
Balvin’s manager, Rebeca Executive Vice President Latin America flag for his mother-tongue by
León, Kaminsky describes the & Iberian Peninsula, Universal Music continuing to sing in Spanish,
strategic process behind Balvin’s despite offers of high-profile
shift from local favourite to global star: “At first, there was a English language-based collaborations.
focus on breaking him in Latin America, Iberia and the US “There’s so much that makes J Balvin special”, says
Latin market. We accomplished this with his hit singles Ay Kaminsky. “He really has a vision to take the genre global
Vamos and 6 AM in 2014 and 2015. without the need to sing in English. He’s committed to
“The next step was to push the project on a global being a global artist while staying close to his roots. I
scale. This started with lead single Ginza [from Balvin’s believe he has accomplished this and much, much more.”
J Balvin photo by Orli Arias30 THE VALUE OF A LABEL IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
The Value
of a Label
‘THIS IS AN ERA OF INVESTMENT’ Jeremy Marsh, Chief Global Marketing Officer,
Record companies are both the spark and the Recorded Music, Warner Music, says: “This is
engine, igniting and driving music, working definitely an era of investment: investment in artists;
to discover and develop artists around the investment in staff; investment in infrastructure.
world and connect them to fans everywhere in We’ve invested in companies and teams such as
unprecedented ways. [major merch company] EMP, [youth media brand]
A dominant feature of the return to growth UPROXX and [multimedia/production studio] The
in recent years has been the expanded levels of Firepit – all of which increase the ways that we can
investment record companies are making in their partner with artists.”
offerings to artists, in their people and in their Glen Barros, COO, Concord Music, talks of both
global presence. Record companies are investing a “human and financial energy” returning to record
more than one-third of their global revenues, or companies, a new cycle in which resources become
US$5.8 billion, in Artists & Repertoire (or A&R) dynamic and a contributor, not simply ballast in
and marketing each year, to break, develop and a storm. He says: “You ally it with passion and it
support artists. becomes a major factor in helping connect artists
Dennis Kooker, President, Global Digital with the widest possible audience.”
Business & US Sales, Sony Music Entertainment, ‘IT’S THE PASSION’
says: “The most obvious impact the streaming- Not only has increased investment allowed record
driven growth has had on record companies is companies to evolve their infrastructure and
that it has allowed us to be more aggressive with enhance their global footprints, it has also enabled
investment, specifically to invest substantially the industry to empower the vibrant, passionate
more in things that directly support artists.” people who are the bedrock of the business.
Ole Obermann, Chief Digital
Officer Executive Vice President,
Business Development, Warner
Music, says: “The DNA at Warner
Music means that everyone in
the company is entirely focused
on working for the artists on
our roster. We want our artists
to be able to focus on their art,
so we take care of running the
business. There’s a dedication
to that goal that isn’t matched
by other players in the music
ecosystem. Only a record label
has that focus and capability and
the necessary belief to break and
support artists.”IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY THE VALUE OF A LABEL 31
My job, and that of
everybody who works with
me, is to do whatever it
takes to turn the vision
of these strong artists
into reality.
DERRICK AROH
VP A&R, RCA Records
with artists that change culture through bodies of
work, and change lives in three minutes.
They want to be challenged within the context
of fully-fledged partnerships with ground-breaking
artists.
‘I LOVE ARTISTS WITH STRONG IDEAS’
Aroh says: “The artists that I love the most are
artists that have strong ideas, a strong will and
a narrative that they’re not willing to give up. It’s
easier for me to work with an artist who says, ‘I'm
Derrick Aroh, Vice President, A&R, RCA not going to do that’, than with an artist who says,
Records, says: “I think the most important thing ‘Okay, give me 800 things and we'll choose’.
artists get from us isn’t just the manpower, but “My job, and that of everybody who works with
manpower made up of individuals who really care me, is to do whatever it takes to turn the vision of
about their careers. The reason people sign to us these strong artists into reality.”
isn’t the size of the operation, it’s the passion we Konrad von Loehneysen, Founder, Embassy of
show them.” Music GmbH, makes the point that the power of a
That passion is reflected by a commitment to record company can actually enhance the power
an artist’s vision. Record companies want to work and influence of an artist. “It’s always a more
Record labels provide artists with unique, unmatched support
Marketing & Digital Sync & Partnership Global Distribution
Marketing & digital Sync and partnership Global distribution
teams facilitate teams work with the artist teams deliver, manage
multimedia campaigns to agree partnerships and track the
that grow the artist’s with like-minded brands distribution of the
presence online that reflect their image artist’s music both to
and offline. and connect with fans. physical and digital.
Artist
A&R Creative Teams Press & Publicity Global Reach
A&R signs an artist to a Creative teams help Press and publicity International teams help
record label, which the artist develop their teams secure media accelerate the artist’s
provides creative and visual identity and coverage, radio and profile by bringing the
commercial expertise, as collaborate on things TV appearances and artist’s music to new
wellas financial support, like album artwork and playlist spots for the territories, growing their
to support the artist’s music videos. artist. global fanbase.
music creation.
Cassper Nyovest photo by N Bolton Photography
Lali photo by Guido Adler32 THE VALUE OF A LABEL IFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
You can’t have a single ‘YOU CAN’T HAVE A SINGLE
PLATFORM STRATEGY’
platform strategy in today’s Gabriela Lopes, Senior Vice
world, because the holistic President, Global Insight, Universal
view of the consumer is key Music, says: “Our mission is to
guide our labels and our artists
to what we do as music through whatis an intricate
companies now. and ever-changing landscape,
highlighting creative and
GABRIELA LOPES commercial opportunities based
SVP Global Insight, Universal Music on an in-depth understanding of
market trends – how consumer
successful relationship if the artist can really think behaviour is changing and how fans are interacting
freely about the music; all my artists have 100% with our artists.”
creative control and they can have that because It is a discipline that is growing in importance (and
they don't need to worry about the metadata, complexity) as the idea of fans ‘just’ listening to music,
the delivery of the records, the promotion and usually on the same device, often in the same locale,
the marketing.” becomes more and more redundant.
Eric Wong, COO at Island Records, re-iterates Lopes says: “You can’t have a single platform
the importance of rooting all strategic thinking strategy in today’s world, because the holistic view
and creative executions in the vision of the artist. of the consumer is key to what we do as music
“Everything starts with the artist and with the companies now.
music, that’s what opens the door and that’s “A great example is Lady Gaga. If you’re a fan,
why it’s important that everyone at the label has you’re into her music, but she’s a performer, so you
a close relationship with artists and managers. want to see her live, you want to see her audio-visual
Each campaign needs to be bespoke and needs to content, you want to see her Netflix documentary,
reflect who an artist is and what they want to say. you want to see her at the Super Bowl, her film, you
Trust is where it all begins.”
In such an environment, strong relationships
built on trust are developed, and are crucial in
the modern music world. Fans are engaged by The portfolio of what we
narrative, and by artists who share insights into
their lives and lifestyles. provide has extended
This will only cut through, however, if it reaches beyond recognition.
the right audience through the right channels – and
then resonates truthfully when it hits. PATRICK MUSHATSI-KAREBA
CEO, Sony Music GSA
Saffron photo courtesy of Universal Music GroupIFPI GLOBAL MUSIC REPORT 2019 // STATE OF THE INDUSTRY THE VALUE OF A LABEL 33
follow her on socials, and so on. There are so many That amplification can come via a range of in-
different touch points, and the job of the label is to house technologies, skills and platforms, all at the
identify the mix that’s right for our artist and create artists’ disposal. Gracey gives some examples: “We
a meaningful connection between artist and fan.” have video commissioners, stills commissioners;
Gary Kelly, EVP/Chief we have designers who do
Revenue Officer, Interscope everything from logos to a
Geffen A&M Records, Universal complete range of campaign
Music, highlights another factor The most obvious impact assets. Then we have the content
in the new ‘much-more-than- the streaming-driven team: directors; producers;
music’ content economy: “Artists editors; plus, a photographic
are always on, and they are growth has had on studio and a recording studio.
everywhere. We have mirrored record companies is that “All of which means we
that approach as a company it has allowed us to be can do TV commercials,
and have built up teams that can vertical videos, music videos,
handle that volume on a 24/7, more aggressive with acoustic recordings, podcasts,
truly global scale.” investment, specifically to voice-overs.”
‘WE CAN AMPLIFY invest substantially more Record companies, then,
provide artists and managers
THEIR STORY’ in things that directly with a suite of services, more
Insight also plays a key role support artists. wide-ranging than ever before,
in brand partnerships, with and then allow them to choose
record companies able to DENNIS KOOKER what to utilize. The result is
conceive and deliver career- President, Global Digital Business & US Sales, Sony the ultimate combination of
driving opportunities for Music Entertainment
absolute freedom backed by
breakthrough artists and global truly global resource and power.
superstars alike.
Bettina Dorn, Senior Director, Brand ‘THE PORTFOLIO OF WHAT WE PROVIDE
Partnership Licensing, Warner Music Central HAS EXTENDED BEYOND RECOGNITION’
Europe, says: “In a nutshell, we marry artists Patrick Mushatsi-Kareba, CEO, Sony Music
with brands, but we can only do that by having Germany, Switzerland, Austria, says: “Telling an
close relationships. We need to know the artists’ artist they should work with us because we can
personality and mindset, because only then do give them a certain amount of money, make their
you get emotionally impactful branding, which is music available and roll-out some promotion, that’s
the only kind worth doing, because consumers, nowhere near enough, and nothing remotely like
especially millennials, are so selective when it a reflection of what we do in this era. If we limited
comes to media consumption. Data is now a hugely ourselves to those aspects, we’d be obsolete.
important part of the role, giving us more insight
into the people we’re targeting and the impact
we’re having. Partnerships have also evolved from
one-off deals to long-term relationships with a
significant cultural impact to the benefit of artists
and brands.”
Cassandra Gracey, President of 4th Floor
Creative, Sony Music’s creative department in the
UK, also stresses the value of not just close, but
fully-rounded relationships. She says: “We like
the music, that's why they’re sitting in our office
in the first place, but we want to know everything
else about them: what makes them tick; where
they’re from; what their background is; all those
types of things. With that information, our insight
team helps identify the audience (and potential
audience), work out which brands and what
media platforms they’re currently caring and
talking about.
“Then we can help them amplify their story,
pick out the different things that just help flesh
out their character and give more for the audience
to latch on to.”
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