The pop genre has hit a new low with Both Justin Timberlake and Robin Thicke releasing videos with nude women only to boost videos streams. Both artists are suffering a mid life crisis, potentially falling into the Justin Bieber category, will pull any tactic to stay in the limelight. They are also taking advantage of a new music business model.

In the case of both singles, more than 1m views were achieved just days after they were uploaded. Whether viewers were revelling in their laddish audacity or fuming about the objectification of women, the clips led to a frenzy of social media debates, news bulletins and views. Based on their success, it’s likely that similar dirty tactics could be used to gain attention for future new releases. Ever since Billboard announced that it would take paid-for streams into account when compiling its Hot 100 chart, online videos have become an increasingly vital tool for artists operating in the US market. The Recording Industry Association of America determined that 100 streams would now equate to one single physical purchase of a single. This means that that an artist could now go platinum after 100 million streams. Read more…