Independent musicians today can distribute their music globally through streaming platforms without record label support. Artists like Chance the Rapper have achieved mainstream success while maintaining full ownership of their work. However, the vast majority of independent artists struggle to earn sustainable income, as streaming pays fractions of a cent per play.
The passage suggests that
all independent musicians become wealthy through streaming
digital distribution has created both opportunities and challenges for independent artists
record labels no longer exist in the music industry
streaming platforms refuse to work with independent artists
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The passage presents both positive and negative aspects of digital distribution.
- Context clues: Artists "can distribute globally" (opportunity); most "struggle to earn" (challenge).
- Meaning: Success stories alongside financial struggles show a mixed picture.
- Verify: Chance the Rapper's success versus "fractions of a cent per play" illustrates both sides.
💡 Strategy: When a passage presents contrasting outcomes, the inference should acknowledge both.
Choice A is incorrect because most "struggle to earn sustainable income." Choice C is incorrect because the passage mentions distributing "without record label support," implying labels exist. Choice D is incorrect because artists can distribute through streaming platforms.