Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on How Online Platforms Promote Independent Artists

In recent years, the topic of how online platforms promote independent artists has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject reflects the growing influence of digital technology on the creative industry and is likely to appear more frequently in future exams. To help you prepare, we’ve selected a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams:

Some people think that the internet and social media are helping artists and musicians to become successful without the support of large companies. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores to help you understand how to approach this topic effectively.

Question Analysis

This question asks for your opinion on whether the internet and social media are enabling artists and musicians to achieve success independently, without relying on big companies. To answer this effectively, you should:

1. Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
2. Provide reasons and examples to support your stance
3. Consider potential counterarguments
4. Use relevant vocabulary related to the music industry, social media, and online platforms

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In the digital age, the internet and social media have undeniably revolutionized the way artists and musicians can achieve success. I strongly agree that these online platforms have empowered independent creators to build their careers without necessarily relying on large companies. This essay will explore the reasons behind this shift and its implications for the creative industry.

Firstly, online platforms have dramatically reduced the barriers to entry for aspiring artists. In the past, musicians needed substantial financial backing from record labels to produce, distribute, and promote their work. Now, with platforms like SoundCloud, YouTube, and Bandcamp, artists can upload and share their music globally at minimal cost. This democratization of the music industry has allowed talented individuals to gain recognition based on the merit of their work rather than their connections or financial resources.

Moreover, social media has become a powerful tool for artists to build and engage with their fan base directly. Platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok enable musicians to cultivate a personal brand and connect with their audience on a more intimate level. This direct artist-fan relationship often translates into stronger loyalty and support, which can be leveraged for crowdfunding projects or promoting live performances. How social media has changed the music industry is evident in the success stories of artists who have gone viral and built sustainable careers through these channels.

However, it is important to acknowledge that while online platforms offer unprecedented opportunities, they also present challenges. The sheer volume of content available online means that standing out from the crowd can be difficult. Additionally, monetizing one’s art in the digital space often requires a diverse skill set, including marketing and business acumen, which not all artists possess.

In conclusion, the internet and social media have fundamentally altered the landscape of the music industry, providing independent artists with powerful tools to achieve success on their own terms. While challenges remain, the overall impact has been transformative, allowing for a more diverse and accessible creative ecosystem. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative ways for artists to thrive independently in the digital realm.

(309 words)

Online platforms promoting independent artists

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay clearly addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed argument with relevant examples.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “democratization of the music industry” and “cultivate a personal brand.”
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The internet and social media have changed how artists and musicians become successful. I agree that these online platforms help artists to succeed without big companies. This essay will discuss why I think this is true.

Firstly, the internet makes it easy for artists to share their work. They can use websites like YouTube or SoundCloud to upload their music for free. This means they don’t need a record label to pay for expensive recording studios or CD production. For example, many singers have become famous by posting cover songs on YouTube.

Secondly, social media helps artists connect with fans directly. They can use Instagram or Twitter to talk to their followers and build a fan base. This direct connection means they don’t need a big company to do marketing for them. Some musicians have millions of followers on social media, which helps them sell concert tickets and merchandise.

However, there are some challenges. There is a lot of competition online, and it can be hard for new artists to get noticed. Also, managing social media and promoting yourself takes time and skills that some artists might not have.

In conclusion, I believe that the internet and social media give artists more opportunities to succeed on their own. While there are some difficulties, overall these platforms have made it possible for many independent artists to build successful careers without relying on large companies.

(218 words)

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good competence in several areas:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the main points of the task and presents a clear position.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are organized logically, with some use of cohesive devices.
3. Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, with some attempt at using less common lexical items.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control.

The main differences between this essay and the Band 8-9 essay are:

• Less sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures
• Less detailed examples and explanations
• Shorter length, which limits the depth of the argument

How do online platforms affect the music industry is a topic that requires a nuanced understanding, which this essay demonstrates to a good degree, albeit with less complexity than the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Democratization (noun) – /dɪˌmɒkrətaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making something accessible to everyone
2. Cultivate (verb) – /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ – to develop or improve through care and effort
3. Monetize (verb) – /ˈmʌnɪtaɪz/ – to convert into or express in the form of currency
4. Barrier to entry (noun phrase) – /ˈbæriər tu ˈentri/ – any obstacle that makes it difficult to enter a given market
5. Crowdfunding (noun) – /ˈkraʊdfʌndɪŋ/ – the practice of funding a project by raising money from a large number of people
6. Viral (adjective) – /ˈvaɪrəl/ – quickly and widely spread or popularized especially by person-to-person electronic communication
7. Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – a complex network or interconnected system
8. Acumen (noun) – /ˈækjumen/ – the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions

Independent artist promoting music on social media

In conclusion, the topic of how online platforms promote independent artists is highly relevant in today’s digital age and is likely to remain a common theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. To prepare for potential questions on this subject, consider practicing with variations such as:

• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of social media for aspiring musicians.
• To what extent has digital technology changed the way we consume and create music?
• Some people believe that traditional record labels are becoming obsolete. Do you agree or disagree?

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This hands-on approach will help you improve your writing skills and gain valuable feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.

How to manage the impact of economic inequality on education is another important topic that you might encounter in IELTS Writing Task 2. While it’s not directly related to online platforms and independent artists, it’s a good idea to practice a variety of topics to be well-prepared for your exam.