The Gamification of Pop Music
The Gamification of Pop Music
The Gamification of Pop Music
Andy Steiner
January, 3, 2025
Summary
The music industry's competitive culture has evolved, with fandoms now playing a significant role in influencing an artist's success. In the past, fans mainly supported their favorite artists, but today, they manipulate streaming data, chart rankings, and sales to boost their idols' visibility. Tactics like streaming parties, using VPNs, and purchasing multiple versions of albums have become common. This shift mirrors sports fandoms, with fans engaging in data-driven competitions. As tech platforms and data availability have increased, fandoms' power has grown, but the gamification of pop may diminish the authentic fan experience, focusing more on numbers than genuine connection.
Reference
Steiner, A. (2025, January 3). The gamification of pop music. The Ringer. https://www.theringer.com/2025/01/03/music/gamification-of-pop-music-billboard-hot-100-challenge-justin-bieber-bts-chart-data-streaming