Randi Zimmerman works at Symphonic Distribution as a Content Specialist, writing everything from artist bios and company announcements to in-depth features and educational resources for the Symphonic Blog. The music business is complex by design, and Randi specializes in breaking down opaque industry systems into clear, practical insights, helping artists and labels of all sizes better understand how to build sustainable careers. Her work bridges the gap between industry infrastructure and artist understanding, translating high-level business concepts into accessible knowledge that empowers creators at every stage of their careers.
We asked Randi if she had any predictions for the music industry in 2026. Here’s what she had to say:
“As a creative person, writer, and lover of human artistry myself, I think the explosive rise of AI in music will serve as a reminder of the beauty of human creation. AI itself isn’t inherently bad, but the blur between what’s human and what’s machine can feel unsettling, even discouraging, to say the least. But in 2026, I see that very uncertainty pushing artists back toward personal creativity, real instruments, and re-embracing the imperfect moments that make music feel alive.
At Symphonic, I feel that we’re at the forefront of managing this balance, helping artists explore the new possibilities available without losing the values that make them stand out. Their passion, the pain, the raw and uncut edges… everything that makes music real. Through the right resources and strategies that support genuine creativity, we make sure the human touch that makes music resonate so deeply stays at the center of it all.
And in a world of increasingly automated, artificial sounds, thoughtful guidance and artist-first AI solutions are more important than ever…”
