As I reflect on my 24 years in the music industry, I’ve learned some hard truths that still resonate today. Here are seven realities I’ve come to understand, updated for the dynamic landscape of 2025.
Reflections on the Music Industry
The music industry is more complex and rapidly evolving than ever, with AI, streaming, and social media transforming how music is created, consumed, and marketed. Here are my insights:
Black People DO Support Other Black People
Despite challenges, I’ve seen firsthand how Black professionals uplift each other in the industry. This support is crucial for pushing forward greater representation and ownership, especially in 2025 when diversity and inclusion are more important than ever.
Racism STILL Exists in the Music Industry
Unfortunately, racism persists, often in subtle forms. Major companies profit from Black music without adequately supporting Black professionals behind the scenes. Change requires Black artists to use their influence to demand equity and respect.
Black Radio Talent Under-Promote Themselves
While AI-driven platforms and social media make self-promotion easier, many Black radio professionals hesitate due to fear of corporate backlash. It’s time to leverage these tools and demand visibility within industry trades.
We Rely TOO Much on Others to Advance Our Careers
In a rapidly changing industry, relying on others for career advancement is a recipe for stagnation. With AI and streaming reshaping workflows, proactive career management is essential. Black professionals must take risks and innovate to stay ahead.
Black Women Show Greater Compassion and Support for Black Causes
Black women often lead the way in supporting each other and Black-owned businesses. They are more likely to give newcomers a chance based on merit, fostering collective advancement.
We Are Often Apprehensive About Stepping Outside the “Black Box”
Industry legends have succeeded by breaking molds and creating unique paths. With AI tools democratizing music creation and distribution, it’s time for Black professionals to innovate beyond traditional boundaries and reclaim their cultural and economic influence.
Comfort, Retirement, Misplacement, Layoffs, or Aging Out Often Lead to Career Death
In 2025’s fast-evolving landscape, staying active and adaptable is crucial. AI and streaming have transformed the industry permanently; resisting change accelerates decline. It’s essential to keep working, learning, and innovating.
Leveraging AI and Modern Trends
In today’s music industry, AI is not just a tool but a transformative force. Artists are using AI to create music in radical new ways, and AI-driven marketing is helping artists reach their audiences with precision. The rise of “world-building” in music, where artists create immersive experiences beyond music, is also on the horizon. This trend, combined with the gamification of music discovery, is redefining how music is consumed and interacted with.
Moreover, the creator economy is booming, with platforms like Twitch and YouTube Live enabling real-time collaborations and live streams. These tools have built stronger connections between artists and their audiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging. As the music industry continues to evolve, embracing these trends and technologies will be key to success.
In conclusion, the music industry in 2025 is a complex, dynamic space where technology, creativity, and diversity intersect. By embracing these changes and leveraging AI, social media, and new business models, Black professionals can not only thrive but also shape the future of the industry.
Kevin "KevRoss" Ross is a music and radio industry expert. He is a 20 -plus year entrepreneur with the leading most successful industry trade publication and site Radio Facts (www.radiofacts.com). He has also published various books, magazines, performed marketing and promotions for major corporations and recording artists and he is on the advisory board of several industry organizations. This year Ross introduced his non profit organization LOMARI (Leaders of the Music and Recording Industry) to help teach young minority students how to market and manage their music and products.
