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In 2025, I have traveled extensively for a series of successful speaking engagements, with cities like Victoria and Nanaimo in British Columbia and Ottawa already covered. Upcoming stops include Fredericton, New Brunswick; Halifax; Toronto; and Whitby, Ontario. There are even discussions about potential events in Quebec and other eastern provinces later this year.
These gatherings, which I refer to as “salons,” provide a space for passionate music enthusiasts to come together and share their thoughts on various topics related to the current music landscape, including the industry, radio, and technological impacts. For me, these salons are invaluable. Spending most of my time in solitude, I often wonder about the effectiveness of my work. Engaging with an audience offers immediate feedback, and I relish the opportunity to hear their perspectives directly.
Over the past five years, I have hosted over a hundred salons, and I consistently find it enlightening to learn what resonates with Canadian music fans. Here are some key takeaways from my experiences.
The High Cost of Concert Tickets
One recurring theme in discussions is the escalating prices of concert tickets. Many attendees express their frustration about the difficulty in obtaining tickets and the soaring costs. Canadians are passionate about live music but are growing increasingly disillusioned by the complexities involved in purchasing tickets and competing against online bots. A common misconception is that Ticketmaster controls ticket prices; however, the final pricing is determined solely by the artists. Additionally, there seems to be confusion regarding Ticketmaster’s relationship with the resale market, with many believing that it owns StubHub, which it does not. Although Ticketmaster does participate in ticket resale under its own platform.
As ticket prices continue to rise, many audience members are questioning their willingness to pay. There’s a noticeable shift towards prioritizing essential expenditures over entertainment. If this trend continues, the summer concert season may see many events failing to reach full capacity, potentially leading to significant last-minute ticket price reductions to fill venues.
Radio Remains Relevant
Despite the rise of streaming services, Canadians still demonstrate a strong inclination toward traditional radio. About 85 percent of the population reportedly listens to the radio weekly, viewing it as a vital source of entertainment and information. However, listeners also convey concerns about the future of radio in the face of streaming dominance. Many feel that streaming platforms often lack the context behind songs, which is typically provided by radio. Fans appreciate the stories of artists and the background of music that radio delivers, which enhances their overall listening experience.
Admiration for Canadian Music
Discussions often touch on the state of Canadian music and the regulations surrounding Canadian content (CanCon). There is a palpable enthusiasm for homegrown talent, coupled with frustration regarding the challenges talented Canadian artists face in breaking into the U.S. market. While some may recall a time when CanCon was associated with lesser music, the current sentiment reflects a strong sense of musical nationalism. And when I highlight that Canada ranks as the eighth-largest music market globally, despite its smaller population, there are enthusiastic reactions from the audience.
Many attendees are also concerned about how platforms like Spotify and Apple Music are supporting Canadian music. Audience members express eagerness to see if Bill C-11 will make a positive impact, demonstrating their desire to engage in future consultations about CanCon.
Concerns About Artificial Intelligence
The impact of artificial intelligence on music is a hot topic in every salon. Fans are wary of music created by algorithms, yet they also recognize that AI can serve as a valuable tool for songwriting and production. The consensus is that we must navigate this new terrain cautiously, much like society did in the late ’80s with the rise of sampling. There is a pressing need for legal frameworks to evolve alongside technology to prevent misuse and ensure the integrity of music.
The Importance of Storytelling
Each salon typically includes storytelling elements from my personal experiences in the music industry, spanning over 44 years. These narratives resonate deeply with attendees, illustrating that while platforms like Spotify may offer podcasts, there remains an irreplaceable value in live storytelling. Audiences are eager to learn not just about artists and their work but also about the workings of the music industry itself. The curiosity surrounding the complexities of music creation and promotion is met with great enthusiasm.
The Joy of Furry Companions
Interestingly, many venues I visit have resident dogs, a feature I truly appreciate. Being away from my own dogs while touring can be challenging, so spending time with a friendly pup before a performance is always a welcome treat.
Source
globalnews.ca