Hi there -

As the news emerged today that Universal is now partnering with TIDAL (question: was TIDAL always an all-caps name??) to explore more artist- and fan-friendly remuneration models, it seems some have been murmuring that the former could even purchase the latter to really shake things up.

In reality, I suspect the truth is that TIDAL is the smallest DSP and therefore the easiest to run tests with. Equally, my cynical side suspects that partnering with these guys over Spotify or Apple Music is a great way to play a divide and conquer move that might make the two dominant DSPs slightly more inclined to get involved and accept change.

I also couldn't help but feel that Spotify's latest financials were received with something of a shrug, where previously much would have been made of them.

It almost feels like their results don't matter at this point, because on some level, they're increasingly being perceived as old news. Or at least, an old model now in need of serious change.

Of course this is all subjective and some of you may well beg to differ. Sometimes though, I feel the biggest indicators are not financial results but cultural indicators. If everyone around you is increasingly showing ambivalence to Spotify as a prospect, you cannot help but think there's change in the air.

For now though, I'm keen to see what Universal with do with the TIDAL partnership. I just sincerely hope Universal is working to deliver a better result for all, on the "a rising tide lifts all ships" philosophy, rather than simply demanding change because its market share is under threat.

Time will tell.

Have a great evening,

D.

🎶 written whilst listening to an old comp from The Wire magazine of Raster Noton tracks. Often consisting of random static and rhythm bass - and little else - it is minimal in the extreme and yet somehow quite brilliant. No link for you but go search YouTube or your DSP of choice and doubtless the labels super leftfield sounds will be found. I also recommend this primer on the label/collective on the excellent Dub Monitor channel on YouTube.