How Rock Music is Flourishing in the Streaming Age
A decade ago, Gene Simmons of Kiss foretold the demise of rock music, deeming it “officially dead” due to the rise of piracy and file-sharing. However, as of 2025, rock is experiencing a resurgence, proving that reports of its demise were overstated. According to Luminate’s midyear report, rock is now one of the fastest-growing genres in the U.S., outpacing both Latin and country music.
Leading the rock revival are newcomers like Ghost from Sweden and Sleep Token from Britain. These emerging acts achieved the elusive feat of topping the Billboard 200 album chart within weeks of each other, signaling the end of a dry spell for rock music. Sleep Token, in particular, made history with their album “Even in Arcadia,” as it became the most-streamed hard rock album in a single week, as reported by Billboard.
In the indie-rock scene, Wet Leg has emerged as a promising artist with their latest album “Moisturizer” soaring to the top of the U.K. charts, indicating potential Grammy success for the band. These rising stars are redefining the landscape of rock music in the streaming era, offering a fresh perspective and captivating audiences worldwide.
The resurgence of rock music can be attributed to various factors, including the power of social media platforms like TikTok. Legacy rock acts are enjoying newfound popularity on TikTok, thanks to viral challenges and user-generated content. Songs from iconic bands like Led Zeppelin have found a new audience on TikTok, introducing classic rock to a younger demographic and revitalizing interest in the genre.
Additionally, streaming services have democratized music consumption, allowing listeners to discover new artists and genres with ease. Rock music, once considered a relic, has found a new audience through streaming platforms, opening doors for emerging artists and established acts alike. The accessibility and convenience of streaming services have enabled rock music to thrive in an era dominated by digital media.
Moreover, the boundary-blurring nature of modern music has inspired artists to experiment with diverse influences, blending genres and styles to create innovative sounds. Bands like Sleep Token and Ghost incorporate elements of electronic music and pop into their rock compositions, appealing to a broader audience and pushing the boundaries of traditional rock music.
As we navigate the streaming era, rock music continues to evolve and adapt to changing trends and technologies. With a new generation of artists pushing the boundaries of the genre and legacy acts finding renewed relevance, rock music is poised to remain a vibrant and influential force in the music industry. The once-declared “dead” genre has proven its resilience, captivating listeners and redefining its place in the digital age.