Book description
'If you want to know anything about how music surfaces today, how to find it, or how to create it, you will find what you need right here. ' Joseph Menn, Washington Post writerFor the first time in history, almost every song ever recorded is available instantly. Everywhere. You Have Not Yet Heard Your Favourite Song charts what music's dazzling digital revolution really means for fans and artists.As a former data guru at the world's biggest streaming service, Spotify, Glenn McDonald reveals: What the tech giants know about youHow they serve up your next songWhether fans can cheat the algorithm Whether jazz is dead and ASMR is the new punkYour chances of becoming a rock starHaving analysed the streams of 500 million people, McDonald explores what the data tells us about music and about ourselves, from the secrets of russelåter in Norway to Christmas in the Philippines. Statistically, you have not yet heard your lifetime's favourite song. This book will take you on a voyage of discovery through music's fast-flowing new waters.10 bonus playlists of wonder included!About the AuthorGlenn McDonald is expertly placed to provide a comprehensive picture of the global music industry in the 2020s.Growing up in 198Os and 1990s America, he was an obsessive collector of physical music - CDs and vinyl albums. But he soon realised the revolutionary power of digital media to make songs more widely accessible.He started doing data work at the US music-intelligence startup The Echo Nest. The Echo Nest was soon acquired by Spotify, where he became its 'Data Alchemist.' His website Every Noise at Once (everynoise.com) is an unprecedented computational map of the world's music genres.Reviews"If you want to know anything about how music surfaces today, how to find it, or how to create it, you will find what you need right here. And you will be highly entertained and amused in the process." - Joseph Menn, Washington Post staff writer and author of All the Rave: The Rise and Fall of Shawn Fanning's Napster."We used to sell CDs by the weight of pallets, thanks to streaming we know how our content is consumed. In this immersive book, Glenn has demonstrated what we can do with this knowledge, so other industries facing their Napster Moment can learn from his unrivalled first mover advantage" - Will Page, author of Pivot and former Chief Economist of Spotify"I'd say that reading this book is the next best thing to having an in-depth, impassioned, hours-long fika with Glenn McDonald about music and culture and all of the most burning topics of our time... but, I'd be lying. It's even better. This book is a true behind-the-scenes examination of our culture and our industry from the perspective of someone who was in the thick of it from the beginning. It's a history of the streaming era, written by someone who made history in the streaming era." Meg Tarquinio, PhD, Spotify/Twitch/Nettwerk Music Group
About the Author
Glenn McDonald is a software engineer, algorithm designer, music evangelist and long-time Data Alchemist at Spotify, the world's biggest music streaming service. From the 1990s, he was one of the earliest and most prolific explorers of how to use data to understand and amplify our collective and individual experiences of music.His work at the US music-intelligence startup The Echo Nest helped bring about its 2014 acquisition by Spotify, which put him at the algorithmic heart of streaming music and the listening habits of 500 million people.His website Every Noise at Once (everynoise.com) has an unprecedented computational map of the world's music genres, and a large and growing variety of other tools for exploring music and joy. His personal blog (furia.com) offers occasional commentary on this, and various other digressions. He lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Bit Sentinel
Being able to customize the listening duration is perfect for quick breaks. ListenBook's dedication to providing an exceptional listening experience shines through in every aspect of the app. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that sets this app apart. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that enhances the immersion in the content.
QuestWeaver
I never thought I'd enjoy audiobooks as much as I do now – all thanks to this app. Seamless audiobook integration – this app's functionality is a technological marvel. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to spread the joy of captivating stories with friends. Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features.
Celtic Charger
This app's library is a treasure trove – I'm always discovering new favorites. With this app, I can dive into captivating narratives while cooking, cleaning, or commuting – pure magic! I'm grateful for this app – it's made reading a part of my everyday life. This app has made my daily routines more meaningful and enjoyable. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is such a fun way to spread joy.
Emerald Goddess
Effortlessly enjoying audiobooks on the go – kudos to this app's functionality. Bravo to the creators of this app – they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design are a win. 📚👏 The app's compatibility with CarPlay adds an extra layer of convenience, especially during road trips. Love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Nutmeg
Audiobook immersion simplified – this app's ease of use is a true asset. Quick access to chapters and controls ensures a seamless listening experience with ListenBook. It's effortless to use.
WanderWord
With ListenBook, my daily commutes have become a cherished time for learning and enjoyment. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like the app knows what I need. Sharing audiobooks via AirDrop is incredibly convenient. Great feature!
Storm Master
Audiobooks have become my bedtime companions, soothing me into a peaceful sleep. Effortlessly accessing my favorite audiobooks has become a reality, all thanks to this app's user-centric design and comprehensive format support. A must-download! 📱🎧 Adjusting the tone of the voice is genius. It's like having a customizable audiobook narrator. Unlimited length audiobooks with ListenBook Pro are a huge plus!
Omega Sub
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made multitasking with audio content a breeze. No need to convert files anymore – ListenBook's seamless playback of various formats is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts like me! ListenBook has made audiobook listening more convenient and enjoyable than ever before. Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment. Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app!
Alberta
I've never been so entertained while doing household chores – this app is a lifesaver! The ListenBook app has made my daily routines more enriching, allowing me to learn while on the go. I'm so grateful for this app – it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. Bravo to the creators of this app – they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design are a win. 📚👏 Adjusting playback speed has given me greater control over my audiobook experience. I can optimize my learning and enjoyment by customizing the pacing.
Princess Dove
ListenBook's support for various audio formats means I never have to worry about compatibility issues. This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and reliable. Looping playback has revolutionized my language learning journey. I'm making rapid progress.
Manimal
I appreciate the minimal ads – it's all about uninterrupted enjoyment. Kudos to the developers! Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process.
Fire Bite
Kudos to the app for making literature accessible to those with busy schedules. This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it!
Juno Cream
ListenBook's comprehensive support for a wide range of audio formats sets it apart from other audiobook apps. This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go – it's like carrying a library in my pocket. Managing my audiobook collection is a pleasure thanks to this app's usability.
Evil Smith
This app is a time-saver – I can 'read' even when I'm on the move. The tone adjustment feature in ListenBook Pro is a novel addition that allows me to personalize my audiobook experience. Library organization has never been this easy. My audiobook collection is finally tidy.
Valley Guardian
Audiobooks have become my escape from reality – a journey into captivating worlds. ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and efficient. My study sessions are more efficient than ever, thanks to the looping playback and bookmark features.
Z-Boy
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Bookmarking on ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off – no more searching for my spot! 🎧 An audiobook treasure trove in the palm of my hand – this app is pure convenience! 📚🌟 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature streamlines the process of adding new content to my library. The app’s design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
DreamDasher
The app's design is sleek and modern – it's a pleasure to navigate. Finally, an app that turns my daily commute into an adventure through literature.
Noise Toy
With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my daily routines more enriching and rewarding. The app's compatibility with various sources for audio download is a true time-saver. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate themed listening sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging audiobook experience. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
21st Street
ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and powerful features have rekindled my love for audiobooks. The audio filters and precise controls are fantastic! ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch makes it an essential companion for my daily commutes and workouts. It's convenience at its finest! The app's performance is nothing short of impressive – smooth, responsive, and designed with audiobook lovers in mind.
Spellbinder
Finally, a way to enjoy literature on the go without straining my eyes. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual growth and personal enjoyment. Enhancing my daily routines – this app's design makes listening a joy. ListenBook’s support for Apple Watch is a great touch. I can control my audiobooks on the go.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience