Six books on how streaming has forever changed our relationship with music

As the digital age exponentially reshapes how we consume, discover, and experience music, a new wave of books has emerged, exploring the intricate relationship between music, technology, and identity.

For World Book Day, we’ve compiled a list of six compelling and incredibly well-researched reads that delve deep into the evolving music ecosystem.

From critical examinations of Spotify's inner workings to thought-provoking insights on the psychology of musical preferences and the transformation of music discovery, these books are essential for all music fans, especially those seeking to understand how tech influences our musical tastes, self-expression, and connections within music communities, both online and offline.

First published: January 7, 2025

In 'Mood Machine', Liz Pelly offers a critical examination of the practices of streaming platforms, particularly Spotify, and the impact of curated playlists on music discovery and artist visibility. This book serves as a call to action to engage critically with digital platforms and advocate for a more equitable music ecosystem that nurtures diverse voices and genres.

First published: June 20, 2024

In this book, Glenn McDonald explores how the streaming economy has forever transformed the way we discover, consume and value music. The book dissects the evolution of music genres as organic communities of individuals and explores how playlists and algorithms in the digital age have changed our relationship with music discovery. He challenges readers to consider the implications of these modern music consumption patterns on the diversity and exploration of musical tastes.

First published: January 16, 2024

In 'Filterworld', Kyle Chayka critiques how algorithms dictate our choices and experiences, from music recommendations to social interactions. Algorithms have reshaped the way we consume information and interact with art and media—Chayka examines how this algorithmic curation has led to homogenisation and the loss of diversity in cultural content. As technology companies use data-driven equations to tailor our experiences for profit, he raises necessary and urgent questions about the impact of algorithmic control on human lives and creativity.

First published: 2019

'Spotify Teardown' uncovers the inner workings of Spotify, offering valuable insights into the black box of streaming music. The authors' thorough research and investigations reveal how user experiences are meticulously crafted to serve corporate interests, prompting readers to reconsider the implications of algorithmic control in the music landscape. Ultimately, the book challenges us to question the balance between convenience and autonomy in a digital age where technology influences not just what we listen to, but how we engage with music on a fundamental level.

First published: September 20, 2022

Susan Rogers, a renowned audio engineer and producer (most notably recognised for her work as Prince's staff engineer at the height of his success), alongside neuroscientist Ogi Ogas delve into the fascinating relationship between music, identity, and neuroscience. This book is a must-read for music fans intrigued by the psychology behind our diverse musical preferences, from melodies to timbres, and how these preferences are intertwined with our sense of self. It explores the intricate connections between our music tastes and personal identity, offering profound insights into how we navigate the world through the sounds that resonate with us.

First published: 2021

'Listen to Lists' by Kristoffer Cornils, Maria Eriksson, Jasmine Guffond, Liz Pelly, and Robert Prey delves deeply into how playlists have revolutionised our music consumption patterns in the digital era. This short book offers an exploration of how the playlist format has fundamentally altered the way we discover, value (or devalue), and engage with music. It sheds light on the historical evolution and chronological significance of lists in music curation, emphasising how technology has fundamentally impacted how we consume and perceive music in today's digital realm.

Cheryl Chow is a freelance writer for Mixmag Asia. Follow her on Instagram.

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