Sean “Diddy” Combs is seeing a significant boost in streaming numbers following his recent arrest, as fans and curious listeners turn to his extensive music catalog.
According to data from Luminate, the artist experienced an average increase of 18.3% in on-demand streams during the week of his arrest on September 17, compared to the previous week.
Howard, a music industry expert, explained that this surge in streaming reflects a common phenomenon where listeners seek to understand the context surrounding an artist’s legal troubles.
“Music becomes just another piece of information as individuals attempt to understand the situation,” he remarked to the Associated Press. He added, “It prompts the question, ‘What might the music of someone with such alleged behavior sound like?’”
With Diddy’s extensive business ventures, including past associations with Revolt TV and Cîroc vodka, many may view him more as a businessman than purely a musician.
This shift in perception could also contribute to the heightened interest in his music during this tumultuous time.
The human tendency to gravitate towards controversy, much like the instinct to glance at a car accident, plays a significant role in this increase.
It’s not uncommon for streaming numbers to rise amid scandal; for example, after a documentary implicated R. Kelly in sëxüal misconduct, his streaming figures nearly doubled.
Diddy is currently facing serious charges of federal sëx trafficking and racketeering, with an indictment detailing allegations dating back to 2008, including accusations of abuse and threats.
Despite these serious allegations, he has pleaded not guilty, leaving many to wonder how this legal battle will further impact his career and music streaming numbers in the future.
