Music Technology in the 2020s: A Decade of Transformation
The 2020s have ushered in a new era of music technology, marked by rapid advancements that are reshaping how music is created, distributed, and consumed. This transformative decade has witnessed a convergence of cutting-edge technologies that have empowered artists, producers, and consumers alike, fostering an environment ripe for innovation and creativity. That said, the argument is being made that AI driven music is not truly creative, since the human spirit that has always been behind music is being supplanted, and this new music is not “real music”, but algorithms making sound. As with so many technological advances however, there is no going back. The genie is out of the bottle, as they say. A music composer today must make a choice. Our relationship with the rest of the industry and the marketplace is at stake….and also in a great state of flux. The role of record labels and record producers, so dominant in the recent past, is gradually eroding as the new paradigm is forming before our eyes (and ears).
Artificial Intelligence - AI - and Music Creation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a significant player in music production over the past few years. There are already today algorithms capable of composing original pieces across various genres. AI is also being utilized for real-time music composition, where software can adapt to live performances, enabling artists to create unique experiences tailored to their audiences. Be aware of these trends, and the fact that I have not yet used any of them, and do not plan to in the foreseeable future. Creating a virtual concert however does sound intriguing. More on that someday !
Enhanced Audio Quality
The 2020s have definitely seen advancements in audio technology, particularly with the rise of high-resolution audio formats and immersive sound experiences. In addition, the development of virtual instruments that run on computers has been a huge boost to my own ability to realize my musical visions. Regarding the audio itself though, these upgrades of the audio experience require enormous computational power, and attaining a similar effect using more normal audio resolutions and a simple stereo field can be a challenge, though doable. I attempt to do just that with all of my music.
Streaming platforms are increasingly offering lossless audio options, appealing to audiophiles who demand superior sound quality. It is today’s great irony that that vast majority of music listeners are listening to mp3’s, not a format that always keeps up with this audiophile level experience. Furthermore, technologies like Dolby Atmos and spatial audio have started to gain traction, offering listeners a more engaging and three-dimensional listening experience that blurs the lines between reality and digital immersion. Once again, while this description mimics some of the reviews I have gotten about my own productions, I have not yet even tried these technologies. These are simply facts about where we are heading in the music industry.
The Rise of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are redefining live music experiences. Artists are now able to create virtual concerts that transcend geographical barriers, allowing fans from around the globe to attend immersive shows from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, AR applications are enhancing live performances, providing audiences with interactive visuals that sync with the music, creating a multisensory experience that deepens audience engagement. As I said, I am very excited about this as a possibility in the future.
Accessibility of Music Production Tools
The democratization of music production tools has been one of the hallmark changes in the 2020s. Sophisticated software and digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio have become more accessible and affordable, empowering aspiring musicians to produce high-quality recordings at home. This shift has led to an influx of diverse voices in the music industry as artists from varied backgrounds can easily create and share their work.
As a side note, I myself mainly use MOTU Digital Performer as my DAW (digital audio workstation). MOTU invented the DAW in the late 1980s ahead of everyone else, and I jumped onboard immediately. I continue to use it today, as well as dozens of other pieces of software.
Blockchain and Ownership Rights
Blockchain technology has begun to influence the music industry by addressing long-standing issues of copyright and ownership. Through decentralized platforms, musicians can maintain greater control over their intellectual property and receive fair compensation for their work. Smart contracts enable transparent transactions that ensure artists get paid directly whenever their music is streamed or purchased, thereby creating a more equitable ecosystem.
The Future of Music Distribution
The traditional music distribution model has evolved significantly, with direct-to-fan platforms gaining prominence. Services like Bandcamp and Patreon allow artists to connect with their audience without relying on intermediaries. This shift not only fosters stronger relationships between artists and fans but also encourages a more sustainable financial model that thrives on community support.
Side note: For my STIR series, I am using Symphonic Distribution as my global distributor, and a combination of MusoSoup and Groover for promotions and linking with music curators, music critics, and other influencers in the music industry. I have been quite pleased with their performance. In spite of that, these relationships may change with my next series and beyond.
Conclusion
As we continue through the 2020s, music technology will undoubtedly keep evolving, providing fresh opportunities for creativity and artistic expression. The synergy between AI, immersive technologies, and decentralized platforms is poised to redefine the music landscape yet again, ensuring that music remains a dynamic and influential art form. Whether it's through enhanced audio experiences or innovative ways of distribution, the transformation of music technology promises to shape the future of sound for years to come.
That is, until the next technological advance.
Marc Soucy
composer producer recording artist
Marc Soucy Music ASCAP