Evolving Music Consumption From Live Performances to Case Based Playlist Recommendations

Abstract

Historically, music was accessible primarily through live performances or personal rendition, with notation systems serving the elite. The evolution of sound reproduction technology— from mechanical music boxes to digital formats like CDs and streaming services—transformed music accessibility. This paper examines the shift from physical music ownership and album-based listening to digital streaming, highlighting how platforms like Spotify have changed music consumption habits. It then explores modern playlist generation methods, focusing on case-based recommendations and similarity-based solutions. While simplistic similarity-based approaches offer a foundational method for playlist creation, advanced algorithms like the Global- Local Similarity Function (GLSF) address smooth transitions between tracks, enhancing user experience. The study highlights the transition from music ownership to streaming and the ongoing quest to refine playlist algorithms.