source: http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/i/2014/08/18/Taylor-Swift.jpg

I have recently decided, having heard it often on the radio, that I enjoy Taylor Swift’s new single “Shake it Off” from her album 1989. My interest, then, was captured when I saw Hugh McIntyre’s article in Forbes, “Taylor Swift’s ‘1989’ Moves 1.287 Million Copies In Its First Week“. Many believe that the music industry is no longer profitable, due to the arrival of online downloading. I agree that this has impacted the revenue streams of the music industry and of many artists; however, I also argue that the internet has brought with it great opportunities for artists, and not just threats.

The rapid spread of information online has allowed stars, such as Taylor Swift and Beyonce, to be raised to some form of legendary icon status. This insanely powerful name will bring thousands upon thousands of people to stadiums around the world simply to watch them live after having found out about the show on twitter and bought tickets online. It will also still allow Taylor Swift to sell 1.287 million copies of her album in a week. What has changed is the value proposition required to be a successful artist: In addition to recording catchy songs, artists must be willing to put on theatrical shows and stay true to themselves. I expect to see many more legendary musicians in the future, and their fame and wealth may be achieved much more quickly if they make use of the internet effectively to improve their image.

Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2014/11/05/taylor-swifts-1989-moves-1-287-million-copies-in-its-first-week/