Snoop Dogg has not ever been shy about his opinion regarding streaming services. After he bought Death Row Records last year, the first thing he did was take some of the biggest albums off of streaming. Even as an owner of the label, he revealed he did it for the sake of the artists. “First thing I did was snatch all the music off those platforms… because those platforms don’t pay,“ Snoop said. “And those platforms get millions of millions of streams, and nobody gets paid other than the record labels.” Now, Snoop is asking the same thing about the WGA strike that is currently happening in Hollywood.
The WGA, or Writer’s Guild of America, is a union. It houses most of the writers of films and television shows. According to them, big studios have used the transition to streaming to cut writer pay significantly. As such, the union is on strike, demanding fair pay. Snoop thinks that musicians can take a page from the WGA book. “[Artists] need to figure it out the same way the writers are figuring it out. The writers are striking because [of] streaming; they can’t get paid. Because when it’s on the platform, it’s not like in the box office,” Snoop said. “That’s the main gripe with a lot of us artists is that we do major numbers. But it don’t add up to the money. Like, where the f*ck is the money?”
Snoop Says East Coast Rap Had A Bigger Impact
US rapper Snoop Dog speaks during the Milken Institute Global Conference. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)
Snoop has recently made a reputation for himself as an outspoken and honest artist. He’s an artist who fights for his contemporaries and won’t let loyalties to anyone cloud the truth. However, even for Snoop, his comments on East Coast rap having a bigger impact were shocking. There isn’t really a rivalry between the two coasts these days. However, in the 90s, it was all you heard about. Snoop, however, gives credit where credit is due. During his appearance on ESPN’s First Take, the iconic rapper laid down some knowledge.
“East Coast started hip-hop,” Snoop said. “It has the biggest impact where it was born. Where it was grown, where it was developed is always gonna be the biggest impact. Because that’s the epicenter, that’s the foundation, that’s where it began. It’s the East Coast.” Snoop went on to mention the specific rappers that laid the foundation for their West Coast counterparts. “We learned from them, got our style from them. We got our swag from them, got our know how to get it together from them, our stage presence — everything from RUN-D.M.C., LL COOL J, Grandmaster Flash, to people who didn’t have no record deals. They set the foundation.” What do you think about Snoops comments? Let us know below!
Video game streaming has rapidly become one of the most popular forms of entertainment in recent years. With millions of people around the world tuning in to watch their favorite gamers, it has become a staple in the culture that is rapidly changing the gaming industry as we know it. In this article, we will explore the rise of video game streaming, how it is changing the gaming industry, and what the future of video game streaming might look like.
What Is Video Game Streaming?
LAS VEGAS, NV – APRIL 21: Twitch streamer and professional gamer Tyler “Ninja” Blevins streams during Ninja Vegas ’18 at Esports Arena Las Vegas at Luxor Hotel and Casino on April 21, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Blevins is playing against more than 230 challengers in front of 700 fans in 10 live “Fortnite” games with up to USD 50,000 in cash prizes on the line. He is donating all his winnings to the Alzheimer’s Association. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Video game streaming is the act of broadcasting oneself playing a video game to an audience in real time. Streamers use Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming to showcase their gameplay to millions of viewers around the world. Online gaming and the growth of social media in the past decade have driven the growing popularity of online gaming.
The Impact Of Video Game Streaming On The Gaming Industry
LOS ANGELES, CA – AUGUST 16: 100 Theives celebrates after they came from behind and eliminated Faze Clan during the Call of Duty World League Championship 2019 at Pauley Pavilion on August 16, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images)
The rise of video game streaming has had a profound impact on the gaming industry. One of the most significant changes has been the way that developers market and sell games. In the past, gamers would typically buy games based on reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and marketing materials such as trailers and advertisements. Today, however, many gamers are discovering games through video game streaming. Watching someone else play provides a much better idea of the gameplay, more so than any trailer or advertisement. In that sense, streaming benefited the rise of indie games. The developers behind indie games typically have little marketing leeway. However, streaming turned into the best option to get the word out there.
The rise of esports has also played a role in video game streaming. Esports transformed gaming into a competitive sport, in a sense, often in organized tournaments with cash prizes.The popularity of esports has led to an increase in the number of professional gamers, as well as the development of dedicated leagues and tournaments. Today, many professional gamers earn a living through a combination of prize money, sponsorships, and streaming revenue.
Visitors play a virtual reality video game, wearing a VR headset while holding mock rifles, during the opening day of the “Paris Games Week” video-game fair, after the cancellation of two editions due to the pandemic, in Paris on November 2, 2022. – The largest French video game fair, Paris Games Week, is open on November 2 to 6. If video games remain the preferred digital leisure activity of young people, with 95% of 10-17 year olds playing them, the practice concerns more than 37 million French people, 53% even declaring that they play them “at least once a week”, according to the Syndicat des editeurs de logiciels de loisirs (Leisure software editors union)(Sell). (Photo by Emmanuel DUNAND / AFP) (Photo by EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP via Getty Images)
So, what does the future of video game streaming look like? There are several trends that are likely to shape the future of this industry.One trend is the continued growth of mobile gaming. More people are playing games on their phones as they’re not only accessible but also, a great way to kill time. Much like Twitch, mobile-specific streaming platforms, such as Omlet Arcade and Loco, allow gamers to stream their mobile gameplay to a global audience.
The rise of virtual reality (VR) gaming is another trend to look out for. VR gaming allows players to immerse themselves in a virtual world in what feels like the next step in the evolution of gaming. Streaming could play a significant role in the growth of VR gaming, especially as gamers showcase their gameplay to a wider audience.
New Revenue Streams
Streaming has opened up new revenue streams for the gaming industry. Game sales are still a major source of income. However, the average gamer is now turning to platforms like Twitch and YouTube to explore their favorite video games. As a result, game developers and publishers are now more interested in collaborating with popular streamers to promote their games. This has led to a new type of partnership between streamers and game companies. Some streamers receive early access to games or exclusive in-game items in exchange for promotional purposes.
Increased Competition
Streamers are now able to build their own communities and followings, which has given them more power and influence in the industry. However, streamers often become authoritative voices. Not due to their knowledge, necessarily but because they are the most watched. This has led to a shift in the balance of power, especially since streamers sometimes have more influence over game sales than traditional advertising methods.
Changes In The Video Game Industry
Developers now tend to design games with streaming in mind. Features like spectator modes and easy-to-use streaming tools have grown in prominence. Even software and hardware for streaming are heavily on the rise. Developers are also paying more attention to how their games will look and play on stream. There’s no doubt that this can have a big impact on how popular a game becomes.
Video Game Marketing
While traditional marketing methods like television ads and billboards are still important, there’s a major focus on social media and streaming platforms. New ventures and initiatives have launched as gaming companies collaborate with popular streamers to introduce their product to a wider audience.
User-generated content is also impacting the industry in a major way. Popular streamers and influencers are gaining significant traction through streaming and YouTube gaming channels which allow them to create and share their own gameplay videos and content. It’s not uncommon for companies to encourage their customers to use hashtag-driven gameplay clips on social media, which, in turn, creates a sense of community among fans. Ultimately, this helps build loyal following and generate organic buzz.
Why Is Understanding The Video Game Industry So Important?
Gamers take part in the “Z Event”, a 54-hour charity video game marathon of live gaming with 55 streamers in Montpellier on September 9, 2022. – Harnessed helmets and reserves of energy drinks to last two days and three nights, 55 French stars, from eSports or Twitch streamers, have launched the “Z Event” marathon in Montpellier, to raise funds for the benefit of 4 associations for the protection of the environment. (Photo by Pascal GUYOT / AFP) (Photo by PASCAL GUYOT/AFP via Getty Images)
As streaming continues to grow in popularity, it’s clear that it will continue to shape the industry. From new revenue streams to changes in game design, streaming is changing the way we think about gaming. While it’s impossible to predict where this trend will take us, one thing is clear: video game streaming is here to stay.
As the world’s leading streaming service, Netflix has been a game-changer in the television industry. Since its launch in 1997, the company has revolutionized entertainment consumption. Today, the platform boasts over 200 million subscribers in 190 countries, with a vast catalog of movies, TV shows, and original content. The impact of Netflix on the television industry is undeniable, changing how we watch TV forever. We’ll explore how Netflix has influenced the future of television. From the rise of streaming services to the decline of traditional TV networks, we’ll examine the effects of Netflix on the industry.
The Rise of Streaming Services
PARIS, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 02: Netflix logo is displayed during the ‘Paris Games Week’ on November 02, 2017 in Paris, France. Netflix is an American company offering streaming movies and TV series on the Internet. ‘Paris Games Week’ is an international trade fair for video games and runs from November 01 to November 5, 2017. (Photo by Chesnot/Getty Images)
Netflix’s success has paved the way for the rise of streaming services. Before its launch, traditional television networks controlled the distribution of TV shows. Networks had complete control over what was aired, when, and who could watch it. However, the emergence of Netflix disrupted this model.
With its on-demand streaming service, Netflix put viewers in control. Viewers no longer had to wait for their favorite shows to air on TV; instead, they could watch their favorites whenever they wanted. This shift in control marked a turning point in the industry, and it wasn’t long before other streaming services like Prime Video and Hulu followed suit.
Streaming services have become the norm today, and it’s not hard to see why. Viewers no longer have to worry about missing an episode of their favorite show or being tied to a specific TV schedule. The rise of streaming services has been a direct result of the success of Netflix.
As viewers continue to shift towards on-demand streaming, TV networks have struggled to keep up. With more people ditching traditional cable TV in favor of streaming services, traditional TV networks have seen a decline in viewership. This drop has led to a shift in the TV industry, with networks forced to adapt to the changing landscape. Many networks have launched their own streaming services, like NBC’s Peacock and CBS All Access. However, these services have struggled to compete with established players like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu.
Television networks have also struggled to attract advertisers. With fewer people watching TV, advertisers have shifted their focus to digital platforms like Facebook and Google. This has led to declining ad revenue for TV networks, further exacerbating their financial troubles.
One of the critical factors behind Netflix’s success has been its investment in original content. In recent years, the company has shifted its focus toward producing its own shows and movies. This has allowed Netflix to differentiate itself from competitors and attract new subscribers.
The success of Netflix’s original content has been staggering. Shows like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Narcos have become cultural phenomena, attracting millions of viewers and earning critical acclaim. Netflix’s original content investment has also helped bolster the careers of up-and-coming filmmakers and actors.
The Impact on the Entertainment Industry
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 07: The Netflix logo is displayed at Netflix’s Los Angeles headquarters (TOP) on October 07, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. The IATSE union which represents Hollywood’s film and television production crews voted to authorize a strike, calling for better working conditions and higher pay amid a surge in streaming demand. Negotiations are ongoing but a strike may be imminent. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
Between YouTube’s churning out of great online content that anyone could watch anywhere and the genesis of Netflix, TV as we knew it was in trouble. Why pay for cable when you can buy Netflix and watch your favorite shows anywhere? Original programming has also allowed Netflix to diversify its content offerings, creating shows and movies that cater to specific audiences.
For example, Stranger Things and The Witcher have become immensely popular among sci-fi and fantasy fans, while shows like Orange is the New Black and Dear White People have tackled important social issues. By providing a platform for niche programming, Netflix has not only attracted a wider range of viewers but also opened up opportunities for new voices and perspectives in the industry.
The impact of Netflix on the television industry has led to increased competition. There is an emphasis on quality content as networks strive to keep up with the high standards set by the platform. The rise of streaming has also affected how shows are produced and released. Many opt for the binge-watch model instead of weekly episodes.
One of the challenges that Netflix faces as it continues to grow is the cost of producing original content. While the company has succeeded with its shows and movies, it has also faced criticism for canceling fan favorites after only a few seasons. The decision to cancel a show is often based on the cost-benefit analysis, as Netflix looks at factors such as viewership and production costs to determine if a show is worth continuing. However, this has frustrated fans who feel invested in the characters and storylines.
The Challenge For Netflix
PARIS, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 19: In this photo illustration the Netflix logo is reflected in the eye of a woman on September 19, 2014 in Paris, France. Netflix September 15 launched service in France, the first of six European countries planned in the coming months. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
Another challenge for Netflix is navigating the regulatory landscape, particularly as it expands into international markets. The company has faced criticism and legal challenges in countries such as India and Indonesia, where there are strict rules around content that are considered offensive or blasphemous. This has led to Netflix self-censoring certain shows and movies in these markets, which has drawn criticism from some viewers and activists who argue that it goes against the company’s commitment to creative freedom.
Despite these challenges, the future looks bright for Netflix and the streaming industry. With the pandemic accelerating the shift toward online entertainment, it is clear that streaming services are here to stay. As more people cut the cord and move away from traditional TV, companies like Netflix will continue to play an essential role in shaping the future of television.
Adin Ross is no stranger to controversy. In the past, those controversies have primarily centered on his streaming career. Most recently, he received his eighth Twitch ban for “displaying hateful content”. While Ross primarily streams on Kick, a new rival site to Twitch, many believe Ross is now permanently banned from Twitch.
Ross is a big fan of controversial lifestyle guru Andrew Tate. In December 2022, Ross said he would be discontinuing the “female-oriented” content to which he attributed his success to. Notably, he recently said that the promotion of hot tub streams by Twitch was “promoting poison.” However, in a new series of videos, Ross has opened up about a deeply personal issue. He has stated that he is doing so in order to be able to help others suffering from the same thing.
Ross Wants To Use Platform To Help Others With Addiction
In a series of videos collated by nojumper on Instagram, Ross opened up about his opioid addiction. Specifically, Ross said that he was addicted to Lean. Lean, colloquially known as purple drank among other names, is a mixture of a soft drink and prescription-strength cough medicine. Ross says that he “became a version of himself that he was not familiar with,” during his addiction. Ross went on to confirm that he believes himself to have kicked the addiction. However, he does note that he has only been clean for “about a week” at the time of filming.
However, Ross wasn’t simply opening up about his addiction. As part of his video, Ross states that he wants to “use his platform”. It’s unclear what Ross means by this as he offers no actionable plan. What he does offer are affirmations and encouragement. “I just want to let other know that you’re not alone,” Ross says, “and that this addiction stuff is real….All these things like drugs and alcohol…You can be better, bro. I get that it’s an escape, but it’s a trap. You’re you and I love you.” Opioid addiction affects over 2 million individuals in the United States. Ross is hoping that opening up about his story will inspire others to battle their own addiction, as he did.
However you feel about Eminem, odds are that you at least appreciate “Mockingbird,” which many people on TikTok clearly do. The Detroit rapper’s 2004 cut from his album Encore just gained over 1 billion streams on Spotify. For context, the track had half as many streams less than a year ago. Of course, this newfound appreciation for the song can be traced back to one social media giant: TikTok. The platform’s already revived past hits on the charts and shown them to a new audience, whether it’s their original version or a remixed rendition.
In this specific example, some videos with the hashtag #mockingbird received over 1.5 billion plays on the platform. Also, other videos with #mockingbirdeminem gained over 375 million plays. Moreover, the song appears in many ways: a sped-up version (used in over 150,000 videos), covers, the base track, one of the verses, the chorus, and the list goes on. Not only that, but this week (March 17), “Mockingbird” is No. 42 on Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart. It’s four spots ahead of Drake and 21 Savage’s “Rich Flex” and 200,000 streams behind Lil Uzi Vert’s “Just Wanna Rock.” While this track was already a hit, peaking at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, this rediscovery certainly brings a new weight to the song dedicated to Em’s daughter Hailie and niece Alaina.
Eminem’s “Mockingbird” Is A TikTok Favorite
However, Encore as a whole album did not receive the kind of praise that “Mockingbird” got from fans and critics alike. Granted, it still sold very well, going five times platinum in the U.S. alone. Still, “Mockingbird” was a standout track regardless of how its album turned out for many. It’s the seventh song in Eminem’s discography to reach over a billion streams on the platform, along with hits like “Without Me” and “The Real Slim Shady.” Last year, during his XXL 25th Anniversary cover story, Marshall Mathers remarked that Encore‘s reception left him frustrated with himself for some time.
“It became a misstep and I struggled to get over the fact that I didn’t do my best,” the 50-year-old expressed. “My best would’ve been good enough if the leaks hadn’t happened. But I released what I had at that point in time, and I feel that put a kind of a mark on my catalog. Encore did some decent numbers, but I was never that concerned with numbers. I was more so worried about what people think about the album. Critics and fans were important to me, and they were always at me about that project.” Despite that disappointment, “Mockingbird” stands as one of his best songs, and it’s great to see TikTok show some love to an almost nineteen-year-old album. Regardless, come back to HNHH for the latest on Eminem.
(@nojumper)
