| dc.description.abstract | Through my master’s thesis I have explored the relationship between TikTok and the music industries, through the interactions of independent musicians. With a qualitative approach through conducting semi-structured interviews with four independent musicians who are active on TikTok, this thesis has discussed themes such as TikTok’s place in the music industry, algorithms and music discovery, and potential revenue streams. These themes have been discussed throughout the thesis based on established theory within participation culture, digital disruptions, artist health, and Do-it-yourself social media marketing. The thesis argues for TikTok’s place within the recording industry and explains how the platform creates new, albeit small revenue streams. TikTok is simultaneously an essential tool for independent music marketing, while also posing a threat to the mental health of artists who are unprepared to manage the harsh reality of the internet. | |
