COVID-19 rendered 2020 the year of staying at home, rarely going out, and not attending events. Multiple industries felt the harmful effects of COVID-19, including the music industry which was badly affected. Concerts, live events, meet-n-greets—they were all either postponed or canceled entirely.
But while artists worldwide canceled their concerts, they gained tons of new listeners on music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. According to the Wall Street Journal, streaming service subscriptions accounted for 83% of the music industry’s total revenue, and subscriptions grew from 60.4 million to 75.5 million.
Music lovers can find some respite with technology being adapted to best fit modern times, even in a post-pandemic world, these virtual events, streaming services, and virtual experiences will continue to grow in popularity. If you happen to be a music fan who can’t travel but is desperately in need of ways to travel or experience your favorite artists’ events without risking your health, then this article is for you.
Best Ways to Virtually Travel the World
Google Earth’s Street View
Germany houses some of the best DJs and clubs any music fan could ask. Berlin, for example, contains top-tier EDM clubs like the Golden Gate and Berghain. Go just outside of Berlin at the right time of year, however, and you’ll be able to attend the annual Fusion Festival.
Dozens of cities worldwide have had a significant impact on the current music landscape, whether through producing classic acts or giving artists a place to initiate a musical renaissance. It’s a shame that not many have had the privilege of traveling to these cities in the past year.
But there is a way to travel without leaving your home: Google Earth. With Google Earth’s Street View, you can walk—or click—around the world. Walk through the alleys of Berlin or take in the sights of Las Vegas all from your laptop!
Music-Related Documentaries
Experiencing the world through the eyes of your favorite artists can give you a glimpse not only into their creative processes but how they used their struggles and ambition to create a sustainable music career. If you’re lucky enough, you can even meet these artists and hang out with them, though opportunities to do so have dwindled drastically due to COVID.
Until COVID is over, Netflix documentaries on respected artists like Steve Aoki, Tiesto, Martin Garrix, and other artists are a great way to see where they started, see the world through a different lens, and get to know more about your favorite artist(s).
Be warned, however, that some documentaries may not be available in your country. For example, if the documentary you’re interested in is exclusive to the United States, you’ll need a USA VPN to watch it.
Virtual Concerts and Festivals
Virtual concerts soon became the norm in 2020/21 as more artists began to embrace the concept. How these virtual concerts worked varied depending on the artist, but most importantly they allowed artists to perform safely and interact with their fans.
Virtual concerts don’t seem to be going away anytime soon, either. At least a few people are interested in keeping the medium alive so no matter where someone is—if they’re a few miles or an ocean away—they can attend an artist’s concert with a button (and an admission fee, of course).
Conclusion
As the world continues to deal with ever-changing social distancing and travel policies, try our tips above to help satisfy that music craving. Fingers crossed it won’t be too long before we’re back enjoying live music!
