| This dissertation examines how the conglomerated music industry is using new technology to divide access to music through different communications services, audio hardware, and new audio media. It is a recent history covering a period from roughly 1999--2003. This period was chosen because it signifies the beginning of the music industry's transition into the digital sphere with its use of the Internet, as well as recent restructuring given the industry's first significant sales decline in twenty years. As a result of these trends, consumers are increasingly required to purchase specific Internet services, wireless carriers, video game consoles or audio subscription services in order to listen to or buy music. By dividing access to music, the music industry hopes to increase its revenue in light of recent global sales declines. As a result of these new developments, a divide is being created between consumers who can afford access to music and those who cannot. Theory on new media and technology described through utopian and dystopian terms is used to inform this study while a political economy perspective is used to analyze data. In addition, unstructured interviews and natural inquiry were used to gather information. Ultimately, the decisions the music industry is making now will radically alter the manner in which music is purchased, delivered and consumed in the future. These decisions will also negatively affect access to music and decrease cultural diversity. |
