Music industry shifts: Physical compilations dead, digital protest music thrives

The extensive discussion reveals a significant shift in music consumption and distribution, moving from physical compilation albums to digital streaming and playlists. This highlights that 'the compilation album as a product is dead' and 'everything is fragmented.' Business opportunities lie in adapting to this new landscape: artists and labels should focus on digital-first compilation strategies (curated playlists, Bandcamp releases), direct-to-fan engagement, and leveraging social media for protest music dissemination. Streaming platforms can develop advanced curation tools for user-generated protest playlists. Brands must strategically navigate sponsoring politically themed digital music campaigns, recognizing the challenges of 'no major label would put out anything pointed at this administration.'