The fight against AI continues as more independent musicians rise
As we usher in 2026, the music industry stands at a fascinating crossroads. The past 12 months were defined by a “humanity first” rebellion against the saturation of AI-generated content, a massive surge in independent artist power, and a “live” music scene that proved more resilient than ever despite economic headwinds.
Looking ahead to 2026, the conversation is shifting from “How do we use technology?” to “How do we stay authentic?” Here is a reflection on the year that was and a preview of the sounds and strategies that will define the year to come.
If 2024 was the year the industry panicked about Artificial Intelligence, 2025 was the year musicians learned to set boundaries. While AI tools became standard for mastering and marketing, a distinct “analog aesthetic” took hold of the charts.
We saw a massive resurgence in live instrumentation. Artists like Kacey Musgraves and Treaty Oak Revival dominated by blending country grit with rock production, while legends like Ringo Starr and Alan Jackson made headlines for their deep-rooted connections to the craft.
For the first time, independent and unsigned artists accounted for over 50% of the music consumed on major streaming platforms. Bypassing traditional labels became the “gold standard” for new acts who prioritized ownership over a massive advance.
Vinyl’s 18-year growth streak continued, but 2025 saw a surprising surge in cassette and CD sales among Gen Z, driven by a desire for “intentional listening” away from the endless scroll of algorithms. Despite how many feel about vinyl, one cannot argue the quality and space allotted on compact discs that make them more desirable than ever, if you ask me. The 4.7-inch disc can hold up to 80 minutes of content with digital audio that is arguably unmatched by streamers.
As we look toward 2026, the industry is moving toward “Micro-Communities” and “Super-Fans.” The focus is no longer just on how many people hear a song, but on how many people keep it.
Listeners are increasingly seeking “mood-based” music. We are seeing a blurring of lines where Afrobeats, K-pop, and Latin sounds are no longer international categories but the core ingredients of global pop. Watch for Asian indie soul like Indonesia’s Thee Marloes and Afro-house to become the soundtrack of the summer.
The “World Tour” is being reimagined. To combat travel costs and carbon footprints, major artists like Bon Jovi, Ariana Grande, and Bad Bunny are planning massive residencies and extended multi-night stays in a single city for 2026. This “slow touring” model allows for more immersive stage designs and a deeper connection with the local fan base.
Industry veterans predict a significant AI backlash in 2026. As streaming platforms become clogged with low-quality, AI-generated background music (often called “AI slop”), fans are expected to retreat into curated human spaces. YouTube is poised to become the top music discovery destination, as its video-centric nature makes it harder for faceless AI creators to compete with the charisma of real performers.
New platforms are making it easier for fans to invest directly in an artist’s career—not just through tips, but through fractional ownership of song royalties. This “super-fan” economy will move revenue away from passive streams and toward deep, community-driven support.
The transition from 2025 to 2026 feels less like a technological leap and more like a cultural homecoming. After years of chasing viral moments, the musicians who are thriving are the ones who treat their music as a tangible, human experience.
Lainey Wilson recapped an eventful year that saw her among the headliners of Nashville’s Big Bash: New Year’s Eve Live on CBS and Paramount+ and recording a song with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry and Yungblud. “If I could sum up 2025, it would be one of them wooden signs that says “live, laugh, love.” 🤪 Nah but for real… another year of lovin’ my people & my people lovin’ me. From family and friends to the artists who inspire me, I don’t take a second of it for granted. Let’s do it all over again next year,” she says with an Instagram slideshow.
Trisha Yearwood writes, “Another chance to start again 🩵 Happy New Year, xoxo,” featuring a video of her in the studio singing “It’s Just Another New Year’s Eve” from her latest holiday album, Christmastime.
Styx teases what’s ahead for them in 2026. “Wishing you a Happy New Year from all of us in Styx. Thank you for the love this past year. Here’s to more music, more miles, and more nights we’ll never forget in 2026!” they share on Instagram.
This fall, Megan Moroney wrapped her headlining Am I Okay? Tour, which sold out nationwide. As she preps for a new era with Cloud 9 in 2026, she reflects, “quite the year. thank you,” with emojis and an Instagram slideshow.
Ashley McBryde filmed a video recapping her year which included receiving a Doctorate, playing the Grand Ole Opry in London, and opening her Redemption Bar on Broadway, among others. “2025 RECAP! Thank you for an amazing year. Thank you to my band, the @opry and most of all YOU. Without you, I’m just some weird woman singing very loudly. Thank you for singing along,” she says.
Rising country star Ashley Cooke says 2025 brought her several highs and lows personally and professionally.
“2025, you’ve had so many monumental highs and catastrophic lows. tears of joy and tears of fear. you were lotttts of shows, new unexpected friends and loves, a whole lot of writing, bucket list experiences, and my favorite music yet on ‘ace.’ you almost took both of my parents.. but made us 10x more grateful and aware of the time we do have together because (thankfully), you didn’t,” she writes with a photo of her in front of a sunset. “I could post the achievements, the moments, the people, the places… but I kinda like them living in a scrapbook of 4x6s and in the memories. so here’s a picture of one of my favorite parking lot sunsets over the last 365 days. thank you for all of the love, support, patience, and kindness this year – I’m more and more grateful for all of you every single day. hope you pop the champagne, eat the grapes, love on your people, and stay safe tonight. there’s so so much I can’t wait to share with you in ‘26… see you then.”
“Heads Carolina, Tails California” country singer Jo Dee Messina thanks fans for her 2025 while teasing what’s ahead in the New Year. “Ending the year filled with gratitude for YOU! 💜🎤 This never gets old! Who’s ready to make more memories with new music in 2026?” she says with an Instagram video and three smiling Emojis.
Lauren Alaina recaps her 2025 that made her a first-time mother. “2025. The year of milestones. The year that gave me hope. The year that gave me a new purpose on this earth. The year that gave me the best title I’ve ever been given. Momma. The year I released five songs that started to change everything. The year that my career started getting new breath in its lungs. The year we got a diamond record. The year that started healing me from 2024. The year that got me ready and excited for 2026,” she shares with a recap video.
Newcomer Jackson Dean reflects on the successful year he’s had. “13 countries, a number one song, and shows in damn near all 50 states. thank ye all for spendin so much time with me this year 🖤” he shares on Instagram with a photo slideshow.