The iTunes revolution of selling individual songs for 99¢ was something I fought against at the time, because I conceived of my favorite albums as complete, integrated works. I worried decoupling the song from the album would optimize the industry to pump out ever-more-saccharine pop hooks.

It’s interesting now, looking back and seeing the thread connecting the 99¢ song to infinitely-scrolling algorithmic video feeds as the logical endgame. Back then, I could never understand why someone would want to buy a single song ala carte, and today I can't get my head around the appeal of TikTok or Instagram Reels. 🤷‍♂️