Epic Games Acquires Bandcamp: Will Consolidation Compromise the Artist-Friendly Streaming Platform?

Abstract

Gaming giant Epic Games announced in early March 2022 that it would be acquiring the independent music streamer and marketplace Bandcamp, sparking concern among artists and users over further consolidation in the streaming and entertainment spheres. Bandcamp’s unique artist-friendly model sets the company apart from major competitors like Spotify and Apple, which distribute only a small percentage of sales directly to artists, leaving users worried that the acquisition would slice into creators’ earnings and livelihoods. This case asks students to evaluate the acquisition and to comment on what they think this bodes for Epic Games, for Bandcamp, and for the users and artists who rely on Bandcamp’s model.