“Stream farming” artificially boosts streaming numbers using bots or other methods, initially benefiting artists or labels but harming the music industry in various ways.
Artificial Inflation of Popularity: Stream farming creates a false impression of an artist’s popularity by artificially inflating their streaming numbers. This can mislead consumers, industry professionals, and even algorithmic recommendation systems into believing that certain music is more popular or influential than it actually is.
Stream farming creates unfair competition, disadvantaging genuine artists who rely on organic growth. This undermines the meritocracy of the music industry, where talent and audience connection should drive success.
Revenue Misallocation: Streaming platforms typically distribute royalties based on the number of streams an artist receives. When stream farming artificially boosts streaming numbers, it can lead to a misallocation of revenue, with illegitimate streams receiving a portion of royalties that should rightfully go to artists who have earned genuine popularity through their talent and hard work.
Stream farming damages trust and credibility for artists and labels, both with their audience and within the industry. It can disillusion consumers and harm an artist’s reputation if manipulation of streaming numbers is discovered.
Stream farming distorts music recommendations by inflating metrics, leading to less diverse and authentic music discovery on streaming platforms..
Stream farming harms music industry integrity by devaluing talent, eroding trust, and distorting the music experience. Combatting it is vital for a healthy musical ecosystem.
