Quite unexpectedly, the online gaming platform Roblox is serving as a major player in crafting the new music industry. While this game is primarily marketed to kids, this game is well-loved by players of all ages, and Roblox’s endless innovations have positioned the game to set the pace for outside culture.
Below, we’ll discuss 5 Roblox music experiences that have moved the needle on what’s possible for artists in the music industry. We’ll also touch on why the crossover between the music and gaming industry makes a lot of sense, even though this crossover may be surprising at first glance.
Why Roblox Is So Transformative For The Music Industry
Roblox has helped pioneer the symbiosis between the music and gaming industries. While this crossover may seem far-fetched, there are plenty of reasons why this crossover actually makes a lot of sense:
Gamers are particularly engaged music listeners. Gamers stream music at double the rate of the average listener. Integrating more music into the Roblox platform doesn’t just bring in new fans for artists, it can help gamers stay more engaged and show up for exclusive Roblox music experiences.
Gamification and music production have a lot of potential crossovers. Gamified music production can help engage gamers and serve as a pipeline to new creatives and musicians.
Gameplay music streaming is uncharted and ultimately less restrictive. Gaming platforms have unique positioning when it comes to streaming music. Most music copyright laws prevent fans from enjoying music outside of authorized streaming platforms. However, direct collaborations with games like Roblox provide mutual benefits for artists and gamers alike, permitting fans to enjoy music while engaging in gameplay.
The music industry is in need of more sustainable revenue streams for artists. Virtual opportunities like those presented in Roblox provide artists with much-needed low-lift sources of revenue that can also be used to connect on a deeper level with fans.
5 Roblox Music Experiences That Have Shifted Music Industry Culture
The cross-collaboration of the music and gaming industries is the future of entertainment. Here are a couple of Roblox music experiences that are furthering opportunities for gamers and artists.
Splash Music Maker
In 2020, Popgun added Splash Music Maker to the Roblox universe, enabling gamers to become DJs and perform to other players. DJ style pads are separated into different stems in which players can mix and match to create their own custom sets. This interface quite literally transforms players into producers, introducing gamers into the art of music production.
Spotify Island
Spotify became the first major streaming platform to launch on Roblox, with the creation of Spotify Island. This space hosts interactive music-making tools, the main stage (presumably for virtual concerts), and exclusive music-themed gameplay.
Roblox shows no signs of slowing down with these types of experiences, unveiling the K-Pop-themed “K-park” in the space highlighting artists Stray Kids and SUNMI.
Roblox Concerts
Music in the Metaverse shows no signs of slowing down, with Roblox headlining a slew of A-list concerts, raking in billions of views. From Lil Nas X to Charli XCX, this space has room for artists to connect with audiences on the global stage from just about anywhere.
Digital Merch
With the rise of Web3, digital goods are becoming more commonplace for creators and artists. Roblox presents a platform where artists can sell digital merch and assets at scale, without requiring additional work. Digital merch and avatars make it easier for like-minded music lovers to find each other on the digital platform, thereby enhancing the community experience for the fanbase.
Listening Parties
Roblox has launched Listening Parties for artists, allowing fans to listen to new releases together while interacting in real-time with the musician. Players also have the opportunity to win exclusive digital merch and get a first look at the album alongside the artist. While Roblox has yet to roll out this opportunity to artists outside of the enigmatic Poppy, it’s clear this feature is here to stay.
Roblox continues to make it easier for artists and fans to connect on a whole new level. Let us know if you’ve tried out any of these Roblox music features!
At Controlla, we’re crafting music technology and interactive experiences to help you connect with your fans as a producer or music creator.
We're launching Season One, allowing artists to transform unreleased songs into interactive games catered to their audiences. They can give it away, sell it to create extra income, or include it as a value-add for top fans. It costs nothing, but space is limited, so act fast and apply for consideration in Season One!