It enables them to build small and entirely undedicated global fan bases.

And no, that is not the only alternative. There is a fine article linked at the top of this very page that points out alternatives that an actual living and breathing artist prefers.

You've been sold a repackaging of “paid in exposure” lie.

I read the article and it’s not taking into consideration my point.

> It enables them to build small and entirely undedicated global fan bases.

It’s just not true. There are tons and tons of independent artists with small music careers who would almost certainly have no music career in a pre-Internet era, and the reason for that is free and wide distribution. It’s an incredible boon for small artists, especially in niche genres.