My Tough Decision on Streaming

I knew this day would probably come.

After much thought and prayer, I’ve decided to take my music off streaming platforms like Spotify. While streaming is convenient, the model doesn’t fairly reflect the value of the time, energy, and heart that go into creating music. It takes around 8,000 streams to earn the same as selling just one CD album, making it nearly impossible for smaller, independent artists to sustain their work. Sadly, I’ve seen fellow Christian indie artists forced to stop making music because streaming has taken away their revenue.

I’m moving away from streaming to create a more personal and intentional experience for my listeners. By offering my music directly to people, I can better connect with and support those who value my work, while ensuring resources are used more effectively.

I’m not the only one affected. If you support other Christian artists, consider buying their music outright to help them sustain their work. Streaming provides little financial support for smaller creators. 

I know this change might inconvenience some of you, and I appreciate your understanding. Thankfully, 80% of my music remains available on YouTube, where I can still engage with listeners. I’ve also made my digital albums affordable on my website, where you can purchase and download them to own and support my ministry.

The best solution for listeners is to purchase the album and uploaded it to whatever listening platform you prefer. You support the artist and get to OWN the music. As opposed to renting access and as soon as you stop paying you don't have the music anymore.

Thank you so much for your continued support as I make this transition!

Ben

P.S. A great new way to support our music is here: https://ko-fi.com/beneverson

P.P.S. Another issue is the pressure streaming platforms place on artists to alter their music for algorithms. To gain visibility, songs are often shortened or structured differently, compromising creativity. This approach discourages depth and authenticity, and for Christian music, it shifts the focus away from the message and ministry. The trend to cater to algorithms dilutes the spiritual and creative integrity of faith-driven music, which should prioritize meaning over mass appeal. Listen at least to 3 minutes of this, starting at 14:00: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_cNrEuiLSU

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Further reading:

https://www.indieonthemove.com/blog/2024/3/how-spotify-is-stealing-from-small-indie-artists-why-it-matters-and-what-to-do-about-it

https://businessreview.studentorg.berkeley.edu/streaming-stress-why-spotify-is-receiving-artist-backlash/

https://www.digitalmusicnews.com/2021/08/09/duran-duran-simon-lebon-streaming-killing-artists-comments/