Music and the Internet

Since the late 1990s, Internet-based music services have challenged and changed the ways the music industry works. The music industry refers to the whole value network of individuals and companies involved throughout the process, from creating music to distributing it. These individuals include, but are not limited to, songwriters, composers, and musicians; recording companies and record labels; and retail and online music stores.

This entry describes the development of different Internet-based music distribution services, how the Internet has changed the circulation of music, how new business models have emerged, and how musicians are increasingly expected to use the Internet and social media to connect with their audiences.