Spotify, SoundCloud, Deezer, Apple Music, Tidal – all offer playlists that are curated to users’ individual preferences. But are we taking notice of the music we consume on a daily basis or are algorithms pushing us into echo chambers that dramatically alter our tastes to enjoy more of the same?

With the COVID-19 pandemic causing people to stay at home out of a sense of public responsibility, artists are having to cancel shows worldwide. How are live-streaming platforms filling the void, and could digital behaviours during the crisis create long-term changes in how people consume music?

With Britons locked down amid the COVID-19 outbreak, supermarkets are one of the few places they’re allowed to go. Aware of people’s anxiety and keen to reduce hysteria, shops are using subtle nudges, including hitting shuffle on their in-store playlists, to help keep shoppers calm.

Musicians have been hit hard by social distancing rules, as live music – which provides much of their income – has all but disappeared. As a gesture of support, digital music platform Bandcamp is temporarily waiving its revenue share for artists on the site, strengthening ties with its fan community as well.