A study found that 94% of US music-streaming users report liking or loving their streaming service, and 90% consider it to be good, very good, or excellent value for money. The research was conducted by MusicWatch for an industry association representing multiple streaming platforms.
The report determined that the average US music streamer spends approximately $434 annually on recorded music. For those with paid on-demand streaming subscriptions, this figure increases to $614 per year.
Paid on-demand streaming subscribers account for 58% of spending on vinyl and CDs in the US, as well as 62% of SiriusXM subscriptions. Outside of recorded music, they represent 68% of merchandise sales and 66% of spending on live music events.
US streamers dedicate 10.3 hours per week to streaming music and music videos. They also spend 3.4 hours watching short-form videos featuring music or dancing on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Additionally, they listen to broadcast radio for 2.5 hours and music on social media apps for 2.6 hours weekly.
The most utilized features among streamers include song lyrics, used by 43%, and music videos, used by 39%. Personalized playlists based on listening history are used by 28% of streamers.
The report also highlighted desired features, with 76% of users requesting higher quality audio, and 72% wanting short-form video clips similar to those found on TikTok, Reels, and Shorts. A further 72% expressed interest in early access to concert tickets sold directly through streaming platforms. Notably, 70% indicated interest in exclusive music content for paid subscribers not available on free services.
The report detailed advocacy efforts, including opposition to a proposed ‘streaming tax’ in Canada and pushback against new remuneration rights proposals in Chile and Peru. It also addressed copyright amendments in Brazil that could potentially lead to double payments from streaming services.
The findings come as the music industry continues to evolve, and youth social media restrictions are increasingly impacting music discovery.
