Reflections on the Death of Music Journalism

“Streaming giants like Spotify,… are celebrating as one of the last points of friction between music and consumer wears away. Today we’re told we have access to the entire library of recorded music in the palm of our hand—a strong case for more music journalism, not less.”

 Joe Anthony Wilkins
Blue Labyrinths

This shift toward passive consumption has broader implications for the cultural landscape as a whole. When artistic engagement is reduced to algorithmic suggestions and quick consumption, the depth and diversity of creative expression suffer. Musicians may feel pressured to conform to trends that guarantee immediate streams rather than pursuing innovative or experimental ideas.

Similarly, audiences are less likely to seek out challenging or unconventional works, reinforcing a cycle of mediocrity. To break free from this pattern, we must consciously support artists who push boundaries and invest time in critical listening. By doing so, we reclaim music as a vital form of cultural and personal expression, ensuring its richness and complexity endure.