As CDs sit on shelves gathering dust, more music fans are turning to YouTube for the latest hits.

But with technology constantly changing, the besieged music industry is being forced to address new consumption patterns.

Aidan Caldwell reports.

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TRANSCRIPT

Illegal downloading YouTube and Justin Bieber, just some of the dilemmas faced by record labels today.

As the 16-year-old teen, online sensation proved any kid with a video camera and the internet can be a superstar, so where does this leave the music industry?

The annual Big Sound’s music conference taking place in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley will strategise new and innovative marketing ideas for the struggling industry.

Graham Ashton, Big Sounds Executive Producer: “The music industry has changed incredibly, it’s almost indistinguishable from what it was ten years ago, but I certainly don’t see that as a negative.”

YouTube and online promotion have led to a rise in over night sensations, however people in the industry still say artists will need record label backing for an extended career.

John O’Donnell, Big Sound Panelist: “It’s quite temporary pop and disposable.”

It may be a traditional method, but many musicians believe the best way to be heard is through old-fashioned hard work.

Dan Koyama, Last Dinosaurs: “Touring has obviously been the most productive form of promotion historically I guess.”

Music veteran Dave Faulkner from The Hoodoo Gurus says the internet is a necessary evil and ultimately will help bands fine fame.

Dave Faulkner, The Hoodoo Gurus: “As well as allowing a lot of new music to come through, which obviously has happened, its also allowed a lot of old music that was not fashionable to be rediscovered by fans.”

Aidan Caldwell, QUT News