We have more information and resources at our fingertips than ever before and the traditional barriers to market for independent creators have never been lower.  However, the shifting sands present new challenges – things are more transparent, but not necessarily less complicated. Artists, labels, songwriters are still missing out on fan engagement, due to royalties, commercial opportunities, available funding and more. This panel seeks to identify, analyse and address the knowledge gaps that exist for today’s independent operators. Why do they exist? Who, if anyone, benefits? How do we overcome today’s challenges? How are we going to relate to each other in a post-pandemic world?