Good Riddance 2020, Hello 2021!: What We Can Expect from the Music Industry this Year

It is pretty fair to say that 2020 has been a whirlwind of events. With the coronavirus pandemic putting the music industry to a halt, artists and labels have been forced to adapt to this new world of virtual performances, socially distant award shows, and tour cancellations.

However, with all of the changes surrounding COVID-19, one thing is certain: musicians and music lovers together have chosen not to give up. Instead, we have learned to be flexible by making extra efforts to connect with our audience, finding new ways to create and release content, and most importantly, keep the music alive. Throughout all of the negativity, the music industry has persevered because of the passion of the people in it, and the feeling of hope that we get from the songs we create.

Now that 2020 is coming to a close and we look ahead to the new year, the question stands: what is going to happen in 2021? Will we finally be able to return to live shows? Will recording studios be opened? Will tours that were postponed by coronavirus finally be rescheduled?

Especially with the Pfiezer and Moderna vaccines being rolled out to the public, some health officials estimate that if no major issues arise, we could have 70% of the population vaccinated by June of 2021 at the earliest, which is enough for life to return to how it was before the pandemic. Of course this is wishful thinking, however the possibility of this hopeful future is mostly determined by us. As more people get vaccinated, we must continue to follow basic hygiene and responsibility by washing our hands, wearing masks in public, staying six feet apart from strangers, and avoiding large gatherings.

Hopefully 2021 is the year that we get to reunite with our favorite artists in concert, and jump around in large crowds. However for the time being, the best thing everyone can do is continue to make music. Despite the circumstances, 2020 birthed many great hits in the music industry: Fine Line​ by Harry Styles, ​After Hours​ by the Weeknd, and Taylor Swift’s surprise double album drop: ​folklore​ and ​evermore​. As we enter the new year, we hope that the momentum continues and that artists stay inspired despite the tough times that the industry is facing.

EAR wants to wish everyone a very happy and safe New Year! We look forward to what is in store for us in the future.