Lots of talk about the RIAA's numbers and what they mean.

This great piece by Mark Mulligan stirred thoughts about supremium - The fundamental concept of “supremium” risks being a cynical cash grab - squeezing more out of “superfans” already spending “70% more” than the rest. It’s strategically lazy just milking them rather than cultivating growth among casual & latent fans with potential but are yet to be fully engaged. The reality, its driven by the limited rights that record companies have control over, but risks negative affect on the artists brand and what happens across their wider career outside those limited rights.

Truly serving the fanatical isn't about relying on “supremium” tiers or 'exclusive' content for a small group. It’s about deepening the artist-fan connection across the board, through diverse revenue streams beyond streaming. Superfans want more than just early access or exclusive merch—they want a meaningful relationships.

Artist gotta take back control! At Sound Effects we focus on diversifying revenue streams - using attitudinal insights to help artists tap into incremental opportunities that go beyond the “supremium” model—building stronger, sustainable relationships with all fans.

Superfans may want something extra - shouldn't come at the expense of alienating the broader audience or leaving artists at the mercy of intermediaries.