I think Spotify just announced a partnership with one of the major labels in the US and Apple iTunes Match isn't a bad service given that they wouldn't normally

I think Spotify just announced a partnership with one of the major labels in the US and Apple iTunes Match isn't a bad service given that they wouldn't normally just give you free music just because you bought it elsewhere. And for a flat rate given how big some people's music library are and the free upgrade to higher quality version, it's not necessarily a bad deal. That said, most music businesses do fail or struggle severely including the above as well as Pandora and Napster among others. It's an extremely difficult space for various reasons. Personally I don't know if I'd support that statement as I think people should do what they love and try (Pandora took this route and they're still surviving somewhat), but ultimately everyone needs to pick what's right for them. I can only say that it's a space I don't have personal interest in and it is extremely tough to crack.