This past week it was all STREAMING PLATFORMS! Who am I kidding, what's new? Either way, read on for what's relevant... 

• Apple Music paid subscribers set to surpass Spotify this summer (US only). Globally, Spotify is still killing it, but this is really big news. This means that the paid-only platform is working. 
• Apple's Homepod was released. Apple is just churning out the news these days. Homepod was released and that could have a significant positive impact on the Apple Music subscriber base. Per the linked review, Homepod does not acknowledge any other music service, so Apple Music is the only go-to. Apparently the sound out of this little guy is incredible. Not sure how the device will stack up overall in the smart home speaker market (is that what's it's called?), but I'm sure we'll see updates and rollouts within the next year or so. 
• Deezer going deeper into Asia. Do not count out Deezer on a global scale. And if you're not thinking about Asia in some capacity, it's time to roll that into your brain. The market is huge and they love music.
• Playlist creation starts on Amazon's Alexa. Users can now start up playlists and add to them with voice prompts. As of right now it only works with Amazon Music. 
• AWAL's guide to pitching playlists. Handy guide for people just jumping into the playlist game. 
• The Quincy Jones interview. I mean... it's not about independent artists, but it's an entertaining read. 

BOTTOM LINE THIS WEEK?? Even more evidence that Spotify should not be the only thing you worry about! 

RELEVANT:

Each Monday we post relevant news stories from the previous week that you should be paying attention to as an indie artist. We'll mainly focus on streaming platforms, artist pay rates, and what's going on in the world of social media so you can access your fans better. What you won't find here: top level executive changes at major labels, big money marketing partnerships with giant artists, and things of that nature. As always, send us comments, suggestions, or things we may have missed!