Letter: 'What's Trending' Obsession is Killing the Music Industry

Harry Leckstein, Deputy Managing Director at the London College of Contemporary Music, has expressed deep concern about how the digital era is reshaping the UK music landscape. In his letter published on March 22, 2025, he argues that social media and online streaming have shifted the focus from nurturing long-term talent to chasing viral moments, resulting in a 'fast fashion' approach to music.

Industry voices, including artists like Chappell Roan, Myles Smith, and Georgie Davis, have observed that the closure of grassroots and independent venues is undermining the traditional ways musicians build and maintain their fan base. Leckstein calls for enhanced support for local music spaces, robust music education, and a renewed commitment by record labels to prioritize genuine artistry over fleeting trends to safeguard the future of British music on the global stage.