CURIOUS GOLDFISH · 2026

State of
Music

IN THE AGE OF AI & STREAMING

Independent research. No major-label lens.
Real human voices & real human opinions.

Most music industry data comes from the top. We went everywhere else — surveying independent artists earning under $50 a month from streaming, fans spending 77 cents of every dollar on live shows, and the professionals trying to hold it all together. The results tell a different story than the one you’re used to hearing.

Introducing the “State of Music in the Age of AI & Streaming.” A first-of-its-kind, grassroots look at what’s actually happening in the world of music.

“Streaming is a business card,
not a paycheck.”
FROM THE STATE OF MUSIC REPORT
WHAT YOU’LL GET

The free Summary of Findings covers these areas:

◆How fans actually discover and support artists
◆Why streaming drives audiences but not income
◆Where the money really flows
◆What AI is quietly changing behind the scenes

BASED ON 573 SURVEY RESPONSES FROM FANS, INDEPENDENT ARTISTS & INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS

Get the free summary

Fill out the brief form below and I’ll send the Summary of Findings straight to your inbox.

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