The Score Magazine February 2021 issue | Page 30

KANUPRIYA MODI

EMBRACING the RHYTHM of ALGORITHMS

In a world where technology romances with us at every stage , let ’ s look at how algorithms add rhythm to our musical experiences on a day-to-day basis
Music is therapy , more so if you ’ re listening to your favourite songs without having to look for them . A continuous experience of enjoying the kind of music you love is a treat in itself . It ’ s convenient when you don ’ t have to select the songs one after another as your app ’ s algorithm ‘ predicts ’ your interest and shows music recommendations that appeal to you . Algorithms are basically a set of rules that are followed to perform an activity by the computer / device . These rules tell the app what your preferences are and you get those kind of song recommendations . Research states the online music streaming subscriptions will cross 450 million subscriptions by the end of 2020 , which is now a reality !
High on AI
We are living this imagination of automated musical experiences ever since Artificial Intelligence ( AI ) took over the music experience . A variety of songs are available with one click , thanks to the algorithmic tools . Some of the types of tools are :
• Collaborative filtering tool : People who prefer this song also like the other one
• Themed recommendations : Different songs from the same artist you like
• Preference-based playlists : A series of songs based on your choice
• Atmosphere-based playlists : Songs based on your moods
Artificial Intelligence has brought about a revolution in the music industry . Music streaming has grown by leaps and bounds becoming the most preferred user experience at the moment . While we engage with music streaming apps and the search engines to look for our preferred songs , data is collected and we get music recommendations based on our listening history .
Intelligent algorithms make it easy for listeners to have a seamless experience . Just select a few songs and the apps recommend you the songs as per a pattern of your tastes and preferences . It ’ s a great way to discover your type of songs among the millions that you might take ages to explore . These are the perks of living in a world that thrives on technology . The possibility of AI composing music is not far from reality looking at the speed at which technology is transforming the music industry .
The Exponential Music Industry
The music industry is experiencing an exponential growth by embracing technological advancements . According to Goldman Sachs , the music revenue will grow to about $ 131 billion by 2030 . With such whopping revenue numbers , we are sure to experience even better streaming services . The Indian music industry is estimated to reach 20 billion rupees by the end of 2022 which in itself is a huge opportunity . An opportunity that unlocks the potential of music-related businesses . Investment in technology will be at its peak owing to the endless possibilities .
Algorithm-based music is just the tip of the iceberg . There ’ s immense potential in this space which will definitely surprise us in the years to come . We will soon enjoy the music of the future wherein our apps understand our minds and play songs to suit the occasion . Till then let ’ s enjoy the next track that our intelligent algorithms have lined up .
The Score Magazine
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