Spotify's Aussie Wrap: Local Music Fades Amid Global Hits

Spotify's annual Wrapped analysis highlights a significant underrepresentation of Australian artists, with no local acts appearing in the top five albums or songs this year. This trend coincides with a substantial 20% decrease in Australian artists streamed locally between 2021 and 2024, despite a 25% increase in revenue from Australian music. Experts attribute this to streaming algorithms that prioritize global content over geographical proximity, potentially harming the domestic music scene.

Globally, artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish led Australia's listening charts, while local favorites such as The Wiggles and The Kid Laroi appeared in the Australian top five. However, the age of top Australian music also skewed older, with the leading album released two years prior and the top song over a decade old. This data underscores a growing concern about the discoverability and success of emerging Australian talent in the digital age.

Calls for greater investment in new local artists are growing louder, with experts emphasizing the need for policy changes to ensure Australian music has a chance to thrive. The article also touches on broader issues, including Spotify's controversial business practices and the impact of global trends on local cultural output. Fostering a vibrant domestic music culture requires a concerted effort to support and promote Australian artists.