In an era of super-fandom, the question is not whether to stan or not to stan, but whom to stan, and for how long. The intensity of fan devotion in the digital age is creating new opportunities for brands to activate hyper engaged communities – just don’t get on their bad side.

With digital channels offering them increased access to their heroes, casual supporters and ‘stans’ alike are embracing novel ways of showing their devotion to celebs and sports teams. How are these passionate individuals forging new cultural tribes and changing expectations of fan interactions?

The music streaming market may be dominated by the likes of Amazon, Apple, and Spotify, but German platform Resonate is proof that small services can still thrive. Its cooperative model is allowing artists to earn a fairer share while giving users a greater sense of ownership.

British house music label Defected Records is hosting an online virtual festival amid multiple music concert cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the events industry under strain due to social distancing, people are forging creative ways to stay connected.