Music Industry and Technology

Music Industry and Technology Thesis Statement Changes in the information and communication technology directly impact on the music industry. Emergency of new technologies has shaped the music industry so far and will also determine the future of the industry. Advancements in technology have influenced the music world both positively and negatively.Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on Music Industry and Technology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The advancement of technology over the last century has revolutionalized how music is made, distributed, marketed and listened to. The use and invention of MIDI, Sequencers and the advent of the internet has promoted file sharing, music downloading and piracy. On the other hand, there are also many gains accrued to both customers and artistes due to same technologies. Introduction This paper explores both the positive and negative impacts of technological advancement on the music industry. The paper fur ther describes some of the technological innovations and analyses how the innovations have contributed to the positive growth of the music industry. Moreover, the paper looks into the future of the music industry based on changes occasioned by technological development. The final section of this paper highlights how various technologies have shaped the music industry and what it all means in terms of future music production and distribution. Technology and Music Industry Music production requires the use of gadgets or instruments. As a result, advancement in the music industry is directly dependent on the technological changes. Technology changes affect the way music is composed, recorded, produced and distributed. As technology improvements are registered in the world of communication, so also does the music industry become very dynamic. Technology has made it easy to produce and reproduce music. Due to efficiency in music production, mass production of music recording is very easy (Beken 242). Mass production is easy because technology enables easy reproduction of recorded music. The ease to reproduce music is positive because it helps artistes to serve mass markets. However, the ease in reproduction has led to the piracy phenomenon. Piracy is where individuals reproduce music without permission of the rights owners. There is much debate with regard to whether music piracy serves any meaningful purpose. On one hand, piracy is more or less like fraud. However, piracy is not entirely bad. Through piracy, musicians are heard by many and this blows their popularity to high ratings.Advertising Looking for term paper on other technology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More A musician is like a brand and the extent to which they are able to connect with fans makes a great difference. Therefore, although music piracy leads to recording companies making losses, it in a way helps musicians in mounting popu larity. With the advent of the internet, piracy has gone really hi-tech and easy to execute. Although internet related downloads lead to loss of revenue on the part of musician and producers, it can be argued that music piracy has improved accessibility to music. Through the internet many fans can have accessibility to songs not easily available in print and even music produced by unknown artistes. Some little known artistes easily create a wave by releasing their little known music to music pirates. With regard to upcoming artistes, the use of internet has increased or made them more inclined towards experimentation. The upcoming artistes are able to test market their music. Through streaming the music on the net, they are able to analyze response to their music and drum up or psyche up fans towards more record sales and huge concert participation. Historically, the music industry in the US was under control of four major companies which included the â€Å"Sony Music Entertainment †, â€Å"Universal Music Group†, †EMI Group† and the â€Å"Warner Music† (Scott 123). These were recording companies that had resources to support their artistes by providing advertisement through radio and music shows (Scott 123). Most artistes struggled to catch the attention of and get signed up by any of the big established labels. Those that could not clinch contracts with these prestigious firms had to go to smaller labels that didn’t have much resource. The smaller producers or labels could not provide as much exposure as the artistes would have liked. Entertainment related advertising requires huge investing. The challenge is compounded by the fact that there are many established artistes who carry the limelight. The cost of production in the music industry has for long remained very high. When an artiste does not contract with the big labels, they get low quality products into the market. For instance, the videos produced by such compa nies are of low quality thereby prompting their not to being shown on television. Technological advancement has made music production easier and even little known labels can now deliver quality. When it comes to advertisement and exposure, the internet through music download has provided a better avenue for artiste to get exposed widely.Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on Music Industry and Technology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Technology and Fight against Piracy in the Music Industry As already indicated, improvement in technology has led to easy reproduction of music. This in return has led to piracy or illegal reproduction of music. Although, piracy in some cases works to the advantage of artistes, it is generally a vice that has to be tackled. By downloading music posted on the internet and sampling the same, individuals may like the music and decide to buy other albums are associated with the same artis te. Consequently they may decide to share with their friend, who may in turn end up buying the same copy of music. The positive side of music piracy notwithstanding, this vice has challenged music industry in a devastating way. Its effects have been felt by artiste and also pirates themselves. The law enforcers and the recording industry are on the look out and are cracking down the pirates around the world. Additionally, the consumers who are beneficiaries of pirated albums lose due to the discouragement it serves on artistes. The consumer will enjoy taking the shortcut in order to save some dollars but by not buying original music, the musicians get discouraged thus the music industry suffering. Secondly, when many consumers go for pirated products, the producers are forced to sell the original music exorbitantly so as to recoup production costs. As a result, the genuine consumers continue to suffer and piracy is further fueled or encouraged. Piracy has caused companies in the mus ic industry to lose colossal sums of money. Most recording companies don’t generate sufficient revenues to finance their production costs. Moreover, to remain in the market, most of them use much of the profits that they get to subsidize their music so that it moves in the market. This means that profitability is largely affected. As a result, not much money is available to invest in expansion or to sign in new artistes that would take music to a higher standing. The pirates have not realized how costly it is for the producers or if they do, they are very insensitive whenever they steal the music. Piracy has killed the creativity of most artistes in the music industry. Most songwriters, singers, producers and those involved in the music industry have been deeply affected. This is because the royalties’ and fees that are supposed to be accrued from the business are not realized. This fee is necessary for any artiste to make a living. To add injury on insult, recording c ompany, labels and artiste’s reputation is entirely damaged by the inferior quality that is produced by the pirated music copies.Advertising Looking for term paper on other technology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More To ensure that artiste and the music industry remain successful, measures and elaborate framework to counter piracy such as incorporation of anti-piracy campaigns, extensive support from governments, and incorporation of technology enabled anti-piracy catch nets come in very handy. Governments have to develop policies that are pro-industry. Technology experts should come up with measures to easily identify pirated and counterfeit music and the law enforcers should be on alert to exercise justice. MIDI One of the technological developments that have revolutionalized the music industry is ability to synchronize musical instruments with computer technology. Technology advancement in the music industry allows both computers and most of musical instruments to communicate effectively. The efforts to have musical instruments communicate effectively with computers led to the creation of MIDI. MIDI is basically the short form of â€Å"Musical Instrument Digital Interface†. This is a c ommonly used language for transmission of information in an electronic environment between computers (Rumsey 81). This technology facilitates artistes to play instruments which are MIDI enabled and allows their music to be captured by the computer system in form of a MIDI file. When MIDI came into existence, more instruments supporting this form of files were created and enhanced to provide efficient utilization of this technology. MIDI technology has brought about more instruments which support this file formats which include keyboards used by pianist, electronic sets of drums used by percussionist among other instruments (Rumsey 160). The MIDI technology has facilitated the development of MIDI software’s, which are compatible with the instruments developed to enhance performance by musicians. This has assisted musicians’ performances to be recorded at the same time being notated in a real music sequence. MIDI provided a kind of â€Å"real† recording studio whe re musicians got the opportunity to record their music in real time (Rumsey 165). The MIDI software systematically controls the beat of the music being played. MP3 MP3 technology is another advancement that changed the music industry. MP3 is a music sound compression technology which reduces sound sequence into a small file without interfering with the original quality of sound. MP3 files are easily identified with an .MP3 extension. The MP3 technology has help to shape the music world. Technology makes it possible to download huge files of songs and other media files on the internet and compress them in an MP3 player or device and hence having a choice of songs to listen to (Rumsey 55). The technology has helped to save disk space at the same time saving expenses on purchasing storage devices such as CD’S, Tapes and other expensive storage devices. The Internet has played a significance role of promoting the use of MP3 devices. Many websites have promoted the use of MP3 as a device by either giving applications that facilitates file compression or linking the user to appropriate site where the user can download songs of his or her choice. Moreover, most websites have effectively complied with copyright laws and allows the users to buy music of their choice. The latter have developed their MP3 song formats which ensures that high audio quality is guaranteed at the same time marketing them to allow accessibility to more audiences. However, the use of MP3 and the websites used to promote it illegally is causing the music industry to loose millions of dollars (Rumsey 117). These sites have encouraged copyright violations because it is illegal to alter or copy any music from an audio or CD device and redistribute without being given consent by the owner. Whereas there has been an effort to curtail this form of music piracy, currently, no sure measure has proved to work regarding copyright and secure song distribution standards. Sequencers Sequencers are ano ther technological advancement or innovation that has helped change the music world. This technology has also in a big way had an impact on the music world. This technology has been around in one form or another for quite some time but it found its way into music industry not long ago (Rumsey 219). Sequencer is popularly known to people as â€Å"4 track recorder†. Sequencers facilitate recording of actual sound as it is being played. Sequencers began appearing in the music industry as software’s mostly installed in computers. Early computers didn’t have enough memory to handle the capability of the sound produced i.e. Sound files could take up more space than text conventional files; hence this decreased their usage (Rumsey 118). However, in recent years, sequencers are popularly used by both musicians and non musicians to enhance their music production. The technology has decentralized what was seen as an exclusive work of recording engineers to virtually anyon e. Moreover, the software is cheap and is even offered for free by some parties (Rumsey 222). Sequencing and MIDI technology has facilitated change in the music industry because once these applications are available to an ordinary person; he or she can record his or her own music. Both applications have revolutionalized the music industry and created opportunities for accessibility to wider musical creations; especially for average person (Rumsey 221). Other technological advancements that have changed the music industry include the use of wave files, digital technology, CD-Rom and web pages. Most web pages created by musicians are interactive thus providing real time interaction between fans and artistes. This technology has enabled not only the musicians (those people who have formal education in music and its performance) and almost anyone who has a passion for music to manage to compose, record and share their pieces of work. CD-ROMs are already packaged multimedia which contain s information about different kinds of music, mostly the style and history. Digital technology makes it possible to record live music directly using the computer and writing the music on a CD; a process called â€Å"burning†. E-music stores Technology has successfully enabled the creation of online music databases and the coming up with music programs to support its growth. Programs such as iTunes and Napster music stores have promoted the sale of e-music by charging a fee which is smaller for any song and other media based files (Leonhard 295). Although this sounds much cheaper than buying the original song, in the real sense it has some fee attached and hence many people tend to prefer using other costless methods to get the song they want. Music Applications/programs With advancement in IT, many more music applications and programs have been created. These music applications and programs facilitate fast music download on the internet. Music applications such as cabos, kaza a, limewire, among other applications, facilitate fast download of music files on the internet. These applications have killed the music industry because they get music and other media files absolutely free and without recognition of the owner of the file (Leonhard 121). Although, theses applications provide a standard platform of getting older music that are not available in print or discovering a new artiste but they help to kill the music industry. Internet Files Sharing The emergency of file sharing has facilitated sharing of files and data that is being distributed. File sharing facilitates accessing files, which is stored remotely and allows people to extract, copy, retrieve files or information only if they have access privileges. File sharing is only possible because technology allows or enables it to happen (Frakes 403). File sharing has created an impact in the music industry and has affected the revenue accrued from the sale of music online. Internet has made it possible for users to access thousands of files stored in different locations around the world. File sharing has been facilitated by having sophisticated software’s which makes it possible to acquire genuine music and directs it to unknown server (Frakes 407). From the server, users only have privileges’ of only logging in and accessing thousands of songs then they can make a choice in terms of which songs they want. Open file sharing has provided a mechanism by which millions of files can be shared among artistes and other parties in the music industry. E-File sharing has facilitated reduced probability of people purchasing original music. Most people have favored online file sharing instead of purchasing CDs and tapes (Cusic 87). However, the music industry has inflated prices on its original CD’s making file sharing a route to acquire songs of interests. This has encouraged rapid increase in E-file Sharing. Music Labels Modern labels have changed the way and means of producing and distributing music. The changes in ways of music production and distribution have created a shift in individual artiste engagement of the market. Technology has lowered the cost of production (Cusic 125). As a result, individual artistes can now produce themselves easily. Individual artistes no longer see the need of signing big contracts. The current changes enabled by technology allow modern labels enough flexibility and more prospects (Wang 146). Technology, therefore, does not just mean more money in the banks but also easier production and more creative solutions. Social Networking Websites and Music Recording Industry Technology has provided a platform whereby people across the world can share music and other information at a click of a button. Additionally, social network websites have been on the increase. This proprietor incorporate into their site a database which enables musicians to upload their albums at the same time encouraging their supporters to listen to them free of charge (Burgess 45). Social websites such as MySpace, face book among others have been in the forefront of providing storage space for most of the artistes. Consequently Social websites have provided a platform on which artistes, who by other means wouldn’t have been known, to advertise their music. Through social network sites, musicians are able to promote their albums hence reaching more audiences. MySpace for instance has launched and promoted much successful music careers and has assisted artiste in getting recording contracts (Burgess 67). Future of Music Industry Just like the music industry has so far been shaped by technological advancements, the future of the industry is also pegged on technology. The process of distribution of music will continue to change toward more electronic means and recording companies will be powerless to do anything regarding this. There will be a challenge of securing rights especially with the emergency of digital network s, licensing and e-distribution (David 66). Consequently, online music marketing is likely to expand and become a major avenue of music selling. The growth and expansion of online music industry is projected to increase. The technologies will double the availability of online database and the download speeds of music will increase. One of the greatest concerns for the future music industry will be piracy and security of files especially due to sabotage maneuvers of rival music camps. There is need for effort towards technology that can help curb piracy and any form of illegal downloads. As of now, technology to guard against piracy and illegal download is yet to gain accessibility in the music industry. The software will greatly improve illegal file download and protect the artistes, music industry and customers as well (David 2). Legislation by governments to protect and institute legal framework to deal with copyright issues, piracy, counterfeits will see the music industry thrivi ng hence making good fortune. Technology and Changing Artiste Attitude Due to technological changes, the attitudes of musicians have also been changing over time. The emergence of new and unknown artistes is expected to change the course of music industry. Many of them do not put much effort in making their original music. Secondly, they do not focus on creating music that is good in itself but rather music that they think people will like. Going into the future, larger recording companies as well are likely to be inclined towards compelling artistes to come up with music that can sell. The concern is with production of music that can easily be taken to by fans once released in the market. Going by technology and already recorded trends, many small independent labels are likely to be the norm of the future. The emergence of small labels allows the artiste to do what he or she deems is best for her music (David 146). It also allows for lesser known artistes to grow at own pace and no t to be held back by recording company requirements. These little known artistes are known to take personal initiative with zeal, they posse’s creative ideas and have clear song structures. Artistes’ attitudes are also changing in terms of what they expect when they produce music. Rather than expecting royalties, artistes are looking forward to other benefits (Burgess 17). Such benefits may include gigs or opportunities for live performances and marketing deals. The music industry should embrace music piracy, instead of fighting it; they should analyze the important ideas behind it because most of the ideas benefit the music industry as a whole. The technology behind should be appreciated as well. The music industry in the future instead of encrypting the CDs, they should come up with a strategy of building a system whereby most of the music is accessible for free, so that if the customers feels that she or he likes the music, it can be easier for him to buy. This proc ess will be inexpensive strategy to support an artiste at the same time positively transforming the impact of â€Å"free music download† Streaming The music industry is being transformed by the emergency of streaming technology. This is seen by most people as an alternative and remedy to the problem of music piracy. This is a feature which allows someone to view a movie or a song partly, without having permission to download it (Cabrera 109). This will be an important step in the music industry because it will enable people to sample new albums and make a choice either to buy it or not. Future of CDs’ Technology advancement is likely to yield the manufacture of rip proof CDs. Such technology will play a major role in curtailing music piracy. Once they are rip proof, it will be difficult for the CD’s to be ripped or copied on a computer system. This will only allow the person who originally bought it to be the one to posses and use (Cusic 110). However, this tech nology will make it impossible for the rightful owners to copy the CD for personal use thus rendering devices such as iPods obsolete. CDS are slowly but surely being faced out as people go for other convenient mediums on which to record and sell music. Digital music downloads, iPods, MP3 are some of the technological devices and mediums that are facing out the CD technology (Cusic 123). The shift from CDS to digital music downloads is facilitated by the availability of fast internet speeds, which allow for quick music downloads at a relatively cheaper cost. Additionally, recording companies and artiste will prefer having an online database for storage of their music which will facilitate accessibility to wider audiences or markets. The online databases will eventually kill the CD technology because audience will prefer purchasing a song directly using their iPods, MP3 players and their computer systems (Cusic 126). E-music music databases for example â€Å"youtube† will reduc e the ability of CD survival because consumers will prefer listening to their favorite music for free; provided they have a steady and fast internet connection. Conclusion Developments in the music industry are pegged on technological advancement. So far technological developments have enabled file sharing, video streaming, piracy, online music purchasing, and music storage by the use of iPods, MP3 players and phones. Through such like devices or platforms both consumers and artistes are advantaged while being disadvantaged in other ways. The technological advancements have provided artistes and their customers with platforms on which they interact whereas doing business in a more elaborate and enhanced manner (Wang 123). The enabling properties of technology have made music production and distribution easy. This has led to artistes being able to sell massively thus creating many billionaires in the industry. However, technology continues to threaten the industry in terms of quality of production and Piracy. Due to technology making recording and distribution easy, everyone has become a producer thus compromising professionalism in the industry. Vices like piracy have become more pronounced due to the enabling effects of technology. Through the internet, stealing music through downloading has increased and mechanisms have to be developed so that both artistes and consumers continue to enjoy the privilege of accessibility offered by the internet while not abusing each other’s rights. Beken, Tom. Organized Crime and Vulnerability of Economic Sectors: The European Transport and Music Sector. California: Maklu, 2005 Burgess, Richard James. The Art of Music Production. London: Omnibus Press, 2002 Cabrera, P, J. IPhone Games Projects. Michigan: Springer, 2009 Cusic, Don. Music in the Market. North Carolina: Popular Press, 1996 David, Matthew. Peer to Peer and the Music Industry: The Criminalization of Sharing. California: SAGE Publications Ltd, 2010 Frakes, Dan. Mac Os X Power Tools. New York: John Wiley and Sons, 2004 Leonhard, Woody. Windows XP Hacks Mods for Dummies. London: For Dummies, 2005 Rumsey, Francis. Desktop Audio Technology: Digital Audio and Midi Principles. Massachusetts: Focal Press, 2004 Scott, Michael, D. Internet and Technology Law Desk Reference. New York: Aspen Publishers, 2009 Wang, Wally. Steal this File Sharing Book: What They Wont Tell You About File Sharing. New York: No Starch Press, 2004