UK’s Competition Authority Goes Full Overtake on Music Streaming
Think of it as a traffic stop at the crossroads of Spotify, Apple Music, and the other streaming giants. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is stepping in to see if the road is open for all drivers or if it’s a one‑way street for the big labels.
Why the Rams Ready Their Stubborn Hearts
Last year, a parliamentary committee rattled the music industry’s hearing with a stark warning: “If the major labels and streaming platforms don’t keep each other in line, the whole lineup might just turn into a broken record.” That’s the starting point for the CMA’s fresh look.
What the Study Is About
- Examines the market’s health and checks if anybody’s speed‑ing through the wheel.
- Possible outcomes: a fresh rule‑book, a softer nudge for self‑regulation, or a full‑blown investigation.
- Result: A clearer picture of whether the `80% UK music‑consumption` CEO‑spats are realistic.
Stakeholders & Their Takeaway
Spotify’s Quiet Corner: No comment yet; the music titan waves from the sidelines.
BPI (British Phonographic Industry): “We’re all ears for the study and excited to help shape it.”
Tempers: From Piracy to Power‑Play
Back in the 90s, music fighting off piracy was like a dumpster fire – a terrible mess. Today, the industry rides a streaming wave with ads or subscriptions, a safer way to bag revenue.
Global numbers for 2020 showed the recorded music market grow 7.4% to US$21.6 billion, a mainly paid‑streaming shift.
UK Numbers in a Snap
- 139 billion audio streams last year – that’s a lot of “Smith, you need to hear this!” moments.
- Artists crier: “I’m not getting a fair slice!” Yet, the major labels (Universal, Sony, Warner) still own ~75% of the UK market and have tight ties to streaming platforms.
Final Verdict? The Report’s Still Coming
With the UK’s “love affair” with music, the CMA wants a friendly, competitive scene where the groove remains vibrant and music lovers get what they deserve. The investigations are underway – let’s keep our ears open for the tune that follows.
