The Future of Live Performance: Analyzing the Impact of Tik Tok and the Pandemic on the Music Industry
Sounds | Vanessa Calderwood
On December 8th, I stumbled upon photographs from a year ago that very day, when I had seen my favourite artist live in concert. I was extremely reminiscent since it has been exceptionally long since I last attended a concert. Many industries have experienced tumultuous changes in 2020, including the music industry which has been hit extremely hard by the pandemic. The discovery of artists has changed and evolved due to the rise of TikTok, and the great loss of live performances. The question that comes to mind is, do live performances matter in 2020 and 2021?
Live performances are equally important for artists and audience members. For unestablished artists hoping to have a successful career in the music industry, performance experience is a necessity to build experience and reach larger audiences. One would assume that the lack of exposure that comes from the sudden halting of concerts would negatively affect chances of being discovered and having success in the music industry. In actuality, this has not been the case.
The rise of TikTok has contributed greatly to the success of new talent and has been a great way for aspiring artists to go viral. Recently, Frances Forever’s song, "Space Girl", has become extremely popular on the platform and those 20 viral seconds of the song have led to Frances Forever signing to a record label. There is no doubt about the success facilitated by this app, though given this phenomenon was unique to 2020, the longevity of an artist’s prosperity beginning in this way is still unknown.
Music has become more accessible in recent years due to the growth of streaming platforms, where one can listen to any song in the comfort of their own home. This is extremely convenient during the lockdown. Nonetheless, to gain a truly electrifying experience while listening to music, one must experience it live.
A concert setting brings like-minded individuals together, providing a sense of community and belonging, creating an opportunity to make friends. I have personally met people at concerts who I still keep in touch with. Anyone who has attended a concert, I believe, can also attest to the unexplainable energy and power that encompasses the room. That sensation of positivity and joy occurs due to a connection between the artist and fan that can only be felt, not replicated through a screen. There have been many attempts to facilitate virtual live performances behind a screen, though due to technological limitations these performances are simply not as compelling.
In my mind, there is no doubt that live performances are still vital. Although they may no longer be necessary to launch an artist's career, the positive, community-building, and thrilling experience of a live performance simply cannot be replaced. I am optimistic about the future when concerts return. I know artists will give their best performances, and the audience members will be incredibly enthusiastic because everyone will know not to take that sacred moment for granted.