The Role of AI in Web3: Shaping the Future of the Decentralized Internet
As the internet evolves into its next phase, known as Web3, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a pivotal role in shaping this new digital landscape. Web3, often referred to as the decentralized web, promises to transform how we interact online by giving users more control, privacy, and ownership of their data. But how exactly does AI fit into this vision, and what impact will it have on the future of the internet?
What is Web3?
The digital experience is being redefined as powerful technologiues such as AI and Web3 appear in the landscape. In this sense, Web3 represents a shift from the centralized, data-driven model of Web2, where large corporations control vast amounts of user data, to a decentralized model where users have more autonomy. Built on blockchain technology, Web3 enables peer-to-peer interactions, decentralized applications (dApps), and smart contracts, all without the need for intermediaries. It’s a vision of the internet where users own their data and digital assets, and where transparency and security are paramount.
The Intersection of AI and Web3:
While Web3 focuses on decentralization and user empowerment, AI brings intelligence and automation to this new internet era and its playing a critical role in Web3. For example, to enhance user experience. AI can significantly improve the user experience in Web3 by personalizing content, recommendations, and interactions in decentralized applications. Unlike traditional systems where personalization often comes at the cost of privacy, AI in Web3 can offer tailored experiences without compromising user control over their data.
In Web3, AI can operate on decentralized networks, where AI models and data are distributed across nodes rather than being held by a central entity. This decentralization of AI ensures that no single organization has control over the intelligence generated, aligning with Web3’s ethos of user empowerment and transparency.
AI enhances the functionality of smart contracts in Web3 by enabling them to execute complex, automated decisions based on real-time data. This combination can lead to more sophisticated decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) that operate with minimal human intervention, driving efficiency and innovation.
One of the core promises of Web3 is enhanced privacy and security. AI can help achieve this by developing advanced encryption methods, detecting and mitigating security threats, and ensuring that user data remains private and secure within decentralized networks.
AI plays a crucial role in managing digital identities and tokenization in Web3. By leveraging AI, users can create and manage decentralized identities that are secure, verifiable, and interoperable across various dApps. AI can also help in managing and trading tokenized assets in a more efficient and intelligent manner.
As Web3 platforms grow, the challenge of moderating and curating content becomes more complex. AI can assist by automating content moderation processes in a decentralized manner, ensuring that communities remain safe and that content aligns with the values and rules set by the users themselves.
The Future of AI in Web3:
The synergy between AI and Web3 holds enormous potential for the future. As these technologies continue to develop, we can expect to see AI-driven dApps that offer unprecedented levels of personalization, security, and efficiency. Moreover, decentralized AI networks could democratize access to AI, allowing individuals and smaller organizations to leverage the power of AI without relying on big tech companies.
However, this integration also comes with challenges. Ensuring that AI operates ethically within decentralized systems, managing the vast amounts of data required for AI without compromising privacy, and developing robust security measures are all critical areas that need attention.
AI and Web3 are two of the most transformative technologies of our time, and their convergence is set to redefine the future of the internet. By combining the intelligence and automation of AI with the decentralization and user empowerment of Web3, we are moving toward a digital landscape that is more personalized, secure, and democratic. As we venture into this new era, the collaboration between AI and Web3 will play a central role in shaping the way we interact, create, and transact online.
Web3: Understanding the Next Evolution of the Internet
The internet has come a long way since its creation, and we are now on the edge of a new era known as Web3. A new concept has arisen, Web3. But let's explain what is it exactly. Web3, also known as "decentralized web," represents the third phase in the evolution of the internet. It is built on the foundation of blockchain technology and emphasizes decentralization, user control, and peer-to-peer interactions. Unlike the centralized nature of Web2, where data and power are concentrated in the hands of a few large companies, Web3 aims to give users ownership over their data, digital assets, and online identities.
The Evolution of the Web: Web1, Web2, and Web3
To understand Web3, it’s important to look back at the earlier stages of the internet:
Web1 (The Static Web):
- Timeframe: Late 1980s to early 2000s
- Characteristics: Web1 was the first iteration of the internet, characterized by static web pages. Websites were mostly read-only, offering limited interactivity. Users could browse information, but they couldn’t interact with the content or create their own.
- Experience: Passive consumption of content. Users were primarily information consumers.
Web2 (The Social Web):
- Timeframe: Early 2000s to present
- Characteristics: Web2 brought about dynamic content, interactivity, and the rise of social media platforms. Users could create, share, and interact with content across various platforms (e.g., Facebook, YouTube, Instagram). However, this era also saw the centralization of power and data in the hands of a few tech giants.
- Experience: Active participation, but within platforms owned and controlled by large companies. Users create and interact with content, but their data is often monetized by these platforms.
Web3 (The Decentralized Web):
- Timeframe: Emerging era
- Characteristics: Web3 is the next step in the internet’s evolution, emphasizing decentralization, transparency, and user empowerment. It leverages blockchain technology, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps) to enable peer-to-peer interactions without the need for intermediaries. Users have greater control over their data, digital assets, and online identities.
- Experience: Users not only interact and create content but also own their data, digital assets, and the platforms they use. Web3 promotes a more equitable internet where power is distributed rather than centralized.
Web3 VS Previous Web Versions
- Decentralization vs. Centralization:
- In Web2, data and power are centralized in the hands of a few corporations. Web3, on the other hand, is decentralized, meaning no single entity controls the network. Instead, power is distributed among users through blockchain networks.
- Ownership of Data:
- In Web2, users' data is often stored on centralized servers owned by tech companies, which can use or sell it without users’ explicit consent. Web3 gives users ownership of their data, enabling them to control how and where it is used.
- Intermediaries vs. Peer-to-Peer:
- Web2 relies on intermediaries (such as social media platforms, payment processors, etc.) to facilitate interactions. Web3 enables direct peer-to-peer interactions through blockchain technology, reducing the need for intermediaries.
- Security and Privacy:
- Web3 offers enhanced security and privacy features compared to Web2. With blockchain’s immutable and transparent ledger, users can trust that their data and transactions are secure. Additionally, users can interact with decentralized applications (dApps) without revealing their personal information.
- Monetization and Value:
- In Web2, platforms typically monetize user data through ads and other means, with little direct benefit to users. Web3 enables users to monetize their own data and digital assets, often through cryptocurrencies and tokens, allowing them to benefit directly from their online activities.
Web3 represents a significant shift in how we interact with the internet. By focusing on decentralization, user ownership, and transparency, Web3 promises to create a more equitable and user-centric digital world. As we move forward, the evolution of Web3 will likely unlock new possibilities for creativity, economic empowerment, and global collaboration, making the internet a truly open and democratic space for all.
What is Proof of Stake?
As blockchain technology continues to evolve, so do the methods we use to secure and maintain decentralized networks. One of the most promising developments in this space is Proof of Stake (PoS), an alternative to the energy-intensive Proof of Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, that promises to be a more sustainable option for the future of blockchain.
What is Proof of Stake (PoS)?
Proof of Stake (PoS) is a consensus algorithm used by blockchain networks to validate transactions and secure the network. Unlike Proof of Work, which relies on computational power and energy consumption, PoS operates on a different principle: participants in the network are selected to validate transactions and create new blocks based on the amount of cryptocurrency they hold and are willing to "stake" as collateral.
In PoS, the probability of being chosen as a validator (sometimes called a "forger" or "staker") is proportional to the amount of cryptocurrency a participant owns. This means that the more coins you stake, the higher your chances of being selected to add the next block to the blockchain. In return, validators receive rewards in the form of transaction fees or newly minted coins.
How Does Proof of Stake Work?
First of all, is about staking so participants in a PoS network lock up a certain amount of cryptocurrency in the blockchain as a "stake." This stake acts as collateral, ensuring that validators have a financial incentive to act honestly.
Then there is a validator selection, so validators are chosen to create new blocks based on a combination of factors, including the size of their stake, the amount of time they’ve been staking, and sometimes randomization. This selection process is designed to be fair and prevent any single participant from dominating the network.
After, the selected validator creates a new block and adds it to the blockchain. This block includes a record of recent transactions. Other validators then confirm the accuracy of the block, so its like a block validation.
For this work validators earn rewards, typically in the form of transaction fees or additional cryptocurrency. If a validator acts dishonestly (e.g., trying to approve fraudulent transactions), they risk losing their staked coins as a penalty.
The security of a PoS network is maintained by the financial stake of its participants. If a validator tries to undermine the network, they stand to lose their staked coins, which provides a strong deterrent against malicious behavior.
Advantages of Proof of Stake
- Energy Efficiency: One of the most significant advantages of PoS over PoW is its energy efficiency. Since PoS doesn’t require massive computational power to validate transactions, it consumes far less electricity, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
- Lower Barriers to Entry: PoS allows more people to participate in the network without needing expensive mining equipment. All you need is the cryptocurrency to stake, which democratizes access to the network and reduces centralization.
- Scalability: PoS networks can process transactions faster and more efficiently than PoW networks, making them more scalable and capable of handling a higher volume of transactions.
- Security: While PoS is different from PoW, it still offers strong security features. The financial incentive to act honestly, combined with penalties for malicious behavior, ensures that the network remains secure and trustworthy.
- Decentralization: By lowering the barriers to participation, PoS can help maintain or even increase decentralization. With more validators in the network, control is distributed more evenly, reducing the risk of centralization.
In this sense, several major blockchain networks have adopted or are transitioning to PoS, including Ethereum 2.0, Cardano and Polkadot.
Challenges of Proof of Stake
PoS offers many advantages, but it also faces challenges like wealth concentration, for example. Critics argue that PoS could lead to wealth concentration, where those with more cryptocurrency have more power in the network. However, many PoS networks are designed with mechanisms to mitigate this risk. Also it faces some security risks, while PoS is generally secure, it’s not immune to attacks. For example, a problem that could arise is if validators can validate multiple chains without penalty. However, most PoS networks have solutions to address this issue.
Proof of Stake represents a significant evolution in blockchain technology, offering a more sustainable, scalable, and accessible alternative to Proof of Work. As major networks like Ethereum embrace PoS, we’re likely to see increased adoption and innovation in this space. For those concerned about the environmental impact of blockchain, PoS provides a promising path forward, ensuring that the future of decentralized technology is not only secure and efficient but also greener.
Understanding the Backbone of Blockchain Security: What is Proof of Work?
Proof of Work (PoW) is one of the most fundamental concepts in the world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies. It’s a consensus mechanism that ensures the security and integrity of decentralized networks.
What is Proof of Work?
Proof of Work is a consensus algorithm used by many blockchain networks to validate transactions and secure the network. In a decentralized system, there’s no central authority to oversee and validate transactions, so a method is needed to ensure that all participants agree on the state of the blockchain. This is where Proof of Work comes in.
PoW requires participants, known as miners, to perform complex computational tasks to add new transactions to the blockchain. These tasks are resource-intensive and require significant computational power, hence the term "work." The first miner to successfully complete the task is rewarded with cryptocurrency, and their solution is used to validate the block of transactions. This block is then added to the blockchain, and the process repeats for the next block.
How does it work?
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how Proof of Work operates:
- Transaction Bundling: Transactions made by users on the network are bundled together into a block by miners. This block is like a page in the blockchain’s digital ledger.
- Solving the Puzzle: Miners compete to solve a complex mathematical puzzle associated with the block. This puzzle is difficult to solve but easy for others to verify. The process involves guessing a number called a "nonce" that, when combined with the block’s data, produces a hash (a string of characters) that meets certain criteria (usually a number of leading zeros).
- Validation and Reward: The first miner to find the correct nonce that solves the puzzle broadcasts their solution to the network. Other miners quickly verify the solution. If the solution is correct, the block is added to the blockchain, and the successful miner is rewarded with cryptocurrency (such as Bitcoin) for their effort.
- Network Security: Because the process of solving the puzzle requires substantial computational effort, it acts as a deterrent to malicious actors. To alter the blockchain, a hacker would need to redo the Proof of Work for every block up to the current block, which is practically impossible for a sufficiently large and distributed network.
Why is Proof of Work Important?
Proof of Work (PoW) plays a critical role in maintaining the security, transparency, and trustworthiness of blockchain networks. Concerning security, PoW makes it extremely difficult and expensive to manipulate the blockchain. The immense computational power required to solve the puzzles ensures that no single entity can easily alter the history of transactions.
Also, PoW supports decentralization by allowing anyone with the necessary hardware to participate in mining. This prevents central control and ensures that the network remains distributed.
Thanks to in a decentralized network, it ensures consensus which is essential so that all participants agree on the state of the blockchain. PoW provides a clear and objective method for achieving consensus without the need for a central authority.
Another key aspect of PoW is the prevention of double-spending as it ensures that once a transaction is recorded in the blockchain, it cannot be reversed. This prevents the double-spending problem, where a digital currency could be spent more than once.
Challenges of Proof of Work
Despite its strengths, Proof of Work is not without its challenges and needs to address some importan issues:
- Energy Consumption:
- PoW is notoriously energy-intensive. The computational power required to solve the puzzles consumes a large amount of electricity, leading to environmental concerns.
- Centralization of Mining:
- Over time, mining has become more centralized, with large mining pools and farms dominating the process. This concentration of power can undermine the decentralized nature of the network.
- Scalability:
- PoW can be slow and inefficient, limiting the number of transactions that can be processed in a given time. This has led to discussions about the scalability of PoW-based networks.
Proof of Work is the backbone of many blockchain networks, providing the security and consensus needed for decentralized systems to function effectively. While it has its challenges, PoW has proven to be a robust and reliable method for maintaining the integrity of the blockchain. As the blockchain space continues to evolve, ongoing innovations and alternative consensus mechanisms, such as Proof of Stake (PoS), are being explored to address the limitations of PoW while preserving the benefits it brings to the world of decentralized finance and beyond.
What is a network?
In the context of cryptocurrencies and NFTs, a network refers to the interconnected system of nodes that collectively operate and maintain the blockchain. This network ensures the integrity, security, and functionality of the cryptocurrency. Within a network you can find several components and functions that is interesting to know about, such as:
- Nodes: These are individual computers that participate in the network. Nodes can be full nodes, which store a complete copy of the blockchain, or lightweight nodes, which store only parts of the blockchain necessary for transactions.
- Blockchain: This is the distributed ledger that records all transactions made with the cryptocurrency. The blockchain is maintained and updated by the network of nodes.
- Miners/Validators: In networks that use Proof of Work (PoW), miners solve complex mathematical problems to add new blocks to the blockchain. In Proof of Stake (PoS) systems, validators are chosen based on the number of tokens they hold and are willing to "stake" as collateral.
- Consensus Mechanism: This is the protocol that nodes follow to agree on the state of the blockchain. Common consensus mechanisms include Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS). These mechanisms ensure that all nodes agree on the validity of transactions and the order in which they are added to the blockchain.
- Cryptographic Algorithms: These algorithms secure transactions and control the creation of new units of the cryptocurrency. Public and private key pairs are used to ensure that only the owner of a cryptocurrency can spend it.
- P2P Network (Peer-to-Peer Network): This is the decentralized architecture where nodes communicate and share information directly with each other, rather than through a centralized server. This structure helps to ensure the robustness and security of the network.
- Smart Contracts: In some networks, like Ethereum, smart contracts are self-executing contracts with the terms directly written into code. These contracts automatically execute and enforce the terms of an agreement based on predefined rules.
- Transactions: These are the records of cryptocurrency exchanges between participants in the network. Transactions are verified by nodes and added to the blockchain.
The network's decentralized nature ensures that no single entity has control over the entire system, making it resistant to censorship and fraud. Each component of the network works together to maintain the security, transparency, and functionality of the cryptocurrency and NFTs.
The Environmental Impact of NFTs: Exploring Sustainable Practices in the NFT Space
As NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) continue to reshape the art and digital collectibles world, a growing conversation around their environmental impact has emerged. Blockchain technology, which underpins NFTs, often relies on energy-intensive processes, leading to concerns about its ecological footprint. However, the NFT space is evolving, with artists, platforms, and developers increasingly adopting sustainable practices to mitigate these impacts. Let's explore the environmental concerns surrounding NFTs and highlight the efforts being made to create a more eco-friendly future.
Understanding the Environmental Impact
At the heart of the environmental concerns related to NFTs is the energy consumption associated with blockchain networks, particularly those using Proof of Work (PoW) consensus mechanisms, like Ethereum. These networks require vast amounts of computational power to validate transactions and mint new tokens, contributing to significant carbon emissions.
For many creators and collectors, this raises ethical questions. Is it possible to enjoy the benefits of NFTs without contributing to environmental degradation? The good news is that the NFT community is actively seeking solutions to reduce its ecological impact.
Sustainable Practices in the NFT Space
- Transition to Proof of Stake (PoS): One of the most promising developments in the blockchain space is the transition from Proof of Work to Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanisms. PoS networks, such as the upgraded Ethereum 2.0 and other blockchains like Tezos and Cardano, require significantly less energy to operate, reducing their carbon footprint dramatically.
- Carbon Offsetting Initiatives: Some platforms and artists are taking direct action by offsetting the carbon emissions associated with NFT transactions. By investing in carbon credits or supporting reforestation projects, they aim to neutralize their environmental impact.
- Eco-Friendly Blockchain Platforms: Several blockchain platforms are designed with sustainability in mind. Tezos, for instance, is a PoS blockchain that has become popular among eco-conscious artists. Its energy-efficient design has attracted creators who want to minimize their environmental impact while still participating in the NFT space.
- Layer 2 Solutions: Layer 2 scaling solutions, such as Polygon (formerly Matic Network) and the one we use in DAFNE+ Platform, help reduce the environmental impact by processing transactions off the main Ethereum chain, which is more energy-intensive. By using these solutions, NFT platforms can lower their carbon footprint while maintaining security and decentralization.
- Artist-Led Initiatives: Many artists are leading the charge toward sustainability in the NFT space. Creators like Joanie Lemercier, who paused his NFT releases to address environmental concerns, have raised awareness and advocated for greener practices within the community. Other artists are exploring alternative blockchains and creative ways to offset their carbon emissions.
While the environmental impact of NFTs is a valid concern, the NFT community is not standing still. Through a combination of technology advancements, eco-friendly platforms, and conscious creators, the space is moving toward a more sustainable future. By supporting these initiatives and choosing platforms and artists who prioritize the planet, collectors and creators alike can enjoy the benefits of NFTs without compromising their commitment to sustainability.
As the conversation around environmental impact continues, it's crucial that we all play a part in advocating for and adopting greener practices in the NFT space. Together, we can ensure that the future of digital art and collectibles is not only innovative but also environmentally responsible.
What is a Smart Contract?
One of the particularities of the NFT space is the use of smart contracts, even though that their use is not exclusive of this industry. Understanding the concept and their use can be very helpful for artists that want to create content and art inside the space.
So, in the context of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, a smart contract is a self-executing contract with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. These contracts automatically execute and enforce the terms of an agreement based on predefined rules and conditions, without the need for intermediaries.
Some of the key aspects of smart contracts are:
- Code-Based Agreements: The terms and conditions of a smart contract are written in programming code, which is then deployed onto a blockchain. This code contains the logic that dictates how the contract should function.
- Automation: Once the predefined conditions specified in the smart contract's code are met, the contract automatically executes the agreed-upon actions. This automation reduces the need for human intervention and minimizes the risk of errors.
- Trust and Transparency: Since smart contracts are deployed on a blockchain, they inherit the blockchain’s properties of transparency and immutability. All participants can see the contract’s code and its execution, ensuring trust and accountability.
- Decentralization: Smart contracts operate on decentralized blockchain networks, meaning they are not controlled by any single entity. This decentralization enhances security and reduces the risk of manipulation or censorship.
- Security: While smart contracts offer many advantages, they are also susceptible to bugs and vulnerabilities in their code. Ensuring the security of smart contracts through thorough testing and auditing is crucial to prevent exploits and attacks.
- Interoperability: Some blockchains are designed to work with other blockchains, allowing smart contracts to interact across different networks, thereby enhancing their functionality and reach.
In these sense, there are several use cases that can be found using smart contracts in a daily basis. The first clear example is a financial transaction. A smart contract can automate payments, loans, and other financial agreements. Another common use is token issuance or token distributions that often use smart contracts to precisely manage the issuance and distribution of new tokens. In this same line we can find that many blockchain-based applications, particularly on platforms like Ethereum, the use smart contracts is frecuent to handle their core functionalities. And last but not least, its is very useful in supply chain management. This is because smart contracts can track goods through a supply chain, automatically triggering actions like payments or transfers of ownership when certain conditions are met.
So, to conclude, smart contracts are a powerful tool within the blockchain ecosystem, enabling the creation of decentralized and automated agreements that are secure, transparent, and efficient.
What is a wallet?
The metaverse and the blockchain space has brought a whole new dimension to the Internet. This new begining of the online world has created new opportunities for many sectors like the creative economy. New opportunities but also new threats, so one of the first things an artist starting in this space should do is get familiar with the new concepts and terminology and understand them. One of those first concepts to be learnt is a wallet because it will be of vital importance to maintain the security over the NFTs they create.
What is a wallet?
A "wallet" is a digital tool or software that allows individuals to store, manage and interact with their cryptocurrencies or NFTs. It serves a similar purpose to a physical wallet for traditional currency but is used to store digital assets. So this way, the main purpose of a wallet is storage, to keep and control your digital assets on the blockchain through cryptographic keys (private and public keys) needed to access and control it. Another important function is security because they are used to protect your cryptocurrency holdings by requiring authentication to access the keys. The third function that we can apply to wallets is transaction management because they allow you to send and receive cryptocurrencies. You can use your wallet's interface to create and sign transactions. And the last one could be balance inquiry because you can check your cryptocurrency balance within your wallet to see how much of a particular cryptocurrency you own.
Types of Wallets
Even though most of the wallets are used in a similar way and have the same functionalities in the market you can find several types.
- Software Wallets (Hot):
- Online Wallets: These are cloud-based wallets that you can access through a web browser. They are convenient but may be less secure.
- Mobile Wallets: These are apps that you can install on your smartphone. They are user-friendly and portable.
- Desktop Wallets: These are software applications that you can download and install on your computer. They provide control but are less portable.
- Browser Extension Wallets: These are browser add-ons that offer easy access to blockchain services.
- Hardware Wallets (Cold):
- These are physical devices specifically designed for securely storing cryptocurrency keys offline. They are often considered one of the most secure options.
- Multisignature Wallets:
- These require multiple private keys to authorize a transaction, providing added security and control.
Choosing the right wallet depends on your needs and priorities. If you're actively trading or using cryptocurrencies, you might prefer a software wallet for convenience. However, if you're holding a significant amount of cryptocurrency for the long term, a hardware wallet is often recommended for its security benefits. It's important to thoroughly research and select a reputable wallet, as the security of your digital assets depends on it.
Can music be turned into an NFT?
Music is an art form and cultural activity that involves organizing sounds in a structured and meaningful way. It is created by combining various elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and timbre to evoke emotions, convey ideas, and communicate messages. Music is present in virtually all cultures and societies around the world, playing a significant role in human expression and communication.
As an artistic expression, music can indeed be turned into an NFT (Non-Fungible Token). NFTs have expanded beyond visual art to encompass various forms of digital content, including music. Musicians and artists can tokenize their music using NFTs, allowing them to sell and distribute their work in a unique and digitally verifiable way.
Here's how music can be turned into an NFT:
- Creation of the NFT: The process starts by creating a digital representation of the music, typically in the form of a digital audio file. This audio file is then associated with a unique NFT on a blockchain platform, which validates its authenticity, ownership, and provenance.
- Metadata and Information: Along with the audio file, metadata and information about the piece of music can be included in the NFT, such as the artist's name, album title, release date, and any other relevant descriptions.
- Listing on NFT Marketplaces: After minting the NFT, the artist can list it on NFT marketplaces that support music, that allow users to discover, bid on, or purchase the music NFTs.
- Royalties and Secondary Sales: Similar to other NFTs, music NFTs can incorporate royalty mechanisms. This means that whenever the NFT is resold in the secondary market, the original artist or creator can receive a percentage of the sale, ensuring ongoing compensation for their work.
- Licensing and Usage Rights: Artists can define the terms of usage rights for their music NFTs. They can choose to offer different tiers of ownership, each with varying levels of usage rights. For example, one tier might allow private listening, while another might grant public performance rights.
- Collector Benefits: Buyers of music NFTs can enjoy unique benefits, such as exclusive access to the music, the ability to resell the NFT, and a verifiable digital connection to the artist's work.
Music NFTs have gained popularity as a way for musicians to directly engage with their fans, offer unique digital collectibles, and monetize their creative output. They also enable fans to become more connected to the music and the artist.