Shift in Music Performances from Late-Night TV to Online Platforms

Earlier this year, CBS ended ‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,’ removing a vital space for music performances. This decision marked a decline in television options for artists, already limited before this change. Historically, late-night TV provides musicians a unique way to reach new audiences. Iconic moments like The Beatles on ‘The Ed Sullivan Show’ highlight this point.

When James Corden left CBS’s ‘The Late Late Show’ in 2023, the performance platform was not revived. NBC’s ‘Late Night With Seth Meyers’ has reduced live music appearances. ABC’s ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ showcases performances twice a week now. Currently, NBC’s ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ consistently features live music. Emerging artists still value these opportunities.

Breakthrough Moments for Artists

Examples of music breakthrough moments exist, like the rise of Future Islands. On March 3, 2014, the synth-pop band captivated audiences on ‘Late Show with David Letterman,’ gaining widespread attention. According to bassist William Cashion, their performance turned into a pivotal moment that increased festival interest and exposure. Bands previously unknown in mainstream circles found success through such exposure.

Online Media as a New Platform for Artists

The limited late-night TV spots disproportionately affect independent acts that could benefit from exposure. CBS, NBC, and ABC provided no comments on the trend. Chloë Walsh, co-founder of The Oriel, emphasized the efforts of music bookers championing emerging artists. While fewer TV spots remain available, online platforms present alternatives.

Examples of online success include artists like Gigi Perez and Malcolm Todd, who gained attention via TikTok hits. Indie band Beach Bunny saw increased recognition on TV after viral success with ‘Prom Queen.’ Even established musicians like Weezer found renewed interest in their music online. Singer Lili Trifilio from Beach Bunny mentions the role of online platforms in reaching new fans.

Internet Creators and New Opportunities

Despite challenges, internet creators are reimagining traditional show formats. Walsh noted the dynamic changes in digital media and opportunities created by platforms like ‘Track Star’ and ‘Outside Tonight.’ The latter, a YouTube show by Julian Shapiro-Barnum, offers live performances outside a studio setting, giving a break to independent artists. Artists like Erick the Architect and Annie DiRusso appeared in its first season.

Shapiro-Barnum’s show aims to replace the traditional late-night platform with an innovative approach. Lili Trifilio of Beach Bunny highlighted the creativity filling gaps left by traditional networks. She anticipates a larger shift to longer-format content on platforms like YouTube, meeting a demand for more extended viewing experiences.

The Value of Performance Exposure

Shapiro-Barnum insisted that exposure through performances remains important for artists, though it does not always equal sales. Walsh explained that traditional TV spots support artist visibility and influence promoters and radio playlists. Shows like ‘Outside Tonight’ demonstrate similar impacts online, as audiences expand with each performance.

Despite shifting trends, a late-night TV appearance still represents a significant milestone for many musicians. For international artists touring the U.S., securing a performance on an iconic show like ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ can validate their efforts and mark a successful breakthrough.