How will music survive until 2050? Will streaming monopolies and economic pressures lead to music’s decline, or can we build a fairer, more sustainable future?

In this season three prologue of the Drowned in Sound Podcast, host Sean Adams (founder of Drowned in Sound) reflects on his lifelong love of music, the systemic challenges facing artists, and what the next 25 years could mean for independent musicians, grassroots venues, and the future of the industry.

In this series, expect big questions, deep dives, and conversations with artists, industry leaders, and changemakers who are shaping what comes next.

Drowned in Sound’s podcast is about a life built around music—but also how music shapes culture, communities, and change.

Topics in this episode:

Why grassroots venues are struggling

How streaming giants control music discovery

The economic realities of being an artist today

Lessons from past music movements and how they shaped the industry

Why music’s future depends on the choices we make now

🎵 Music by Sound Mirror – https://www.soundmirror.co.uk/

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00:00 Introduction: The Future of Music in 2050

00:25 Personal Journey with Music

01:45 Climate Activism & Music’s Role in Change

02:20 Challenges Facing Artists & the Music Industry

03:34 Streaming, Labels & Who Holds the Power

06:13 Economic Disparities & the Struggles of Independent Artists

07:36 The Importance of Community in Music

10:46 Conclusion: The Power & Potential of Music

What do you think the future of music looks like?What challenges should the industry fix first?

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