spotify launches a virtual concert series with the black keys and more
The Impact of the Pandemic on the Music Industry
The music industry, particularly the realm of live performances, has experienced significant hardship over the last year. Musicians reliant on touring income have been compelled to seek alternative revenue streams. Simultaneously, concertgoers have been actively searching for ways to fill the void left by widespread event cancellations.
New Approaches to Live Music Experiences
Throughout the pandemic, numerous music platforms have strived to replicate the concert experience. These efforts have ranged from supporting live venues to utilizing services like Bandcamp. Now, Spotify is introducing a new feature intended to deliver a remote live-show experience.
While venues are gradually reopening in many locations, some fans may still hesitate to attend crowded indoor events. This new offering aims to bridge that gap.
Spotify's Prerecorded Livestreams
Spotify is announcing a series of shows beginning this month, featuring artists such as The Black Keys, Rag’n’Bone Man, Bleachers’ Jack Antonoff, Leon Bridges, and girl in red. These events are described as “prerecorded livestreams,” a term that presents a slight contradiction.
Although “livestream” has become a common descriptor, its meaning is diluted when the performance isn’t actually live. However, Spotify is attempting a unique approach.
Artist-Selected Venues and Locations
Instead of broadcasting directly from traditional venues, Spotify is allowing artists to select the location for their prerecorded performances. The Black Keys will perform from a live-show venue, while Jack Antonoff opted for a more unconventional setting – a bus journey from Brooklyn to Asbury Park, New Jersey.
Artist Perspectives and the "Delta Kream" Performance
“We have always been a band that loves to play live in venues of all shapes and sizes,” stated The Black Keys. “The past year has been tough for musicians and fans alike, so we wanted to find a way to share this live performance of songs from our new project, Delta Kream, from a place we love, the Blue Front Café, the oldest active juke joint in America. We’re excited to be a part of this new initiative with Spotify that will give fans a great way to connect with their favorite artists.”
Ticket Pricing and Accessibility
The shows will range in length from 40 to 75 minutes and will cost $15 per view. While this price point may seem relatively high for a prerecorded concert, fans are likely to value the opportunity for an “intimate” experience with their favorite artists.
However, the sense of intimacy may be somewhat limited, as Spotify will be offering an unlimited number of tickets to each event.
The financial arrangements for the artists are not fully disclosed, with Spotify only stating that “All artists will receive a guaranteed fee for their participation in the livestream.”
Access Requirements
To view the streams, a Spotify account is required, whether it be a premium or free subscription.