Yep the whole getting something for consuming content is something I've been trying as a way to give free downloads in a way for my music.
I have a WordPress site where my music is and it's available to buy with steem. Sure, you may not have enough steem when you first start out but by engaging with my blog, I issue out upvotes on comments which then in return, turn into steem/sbd that can be used to download my music... For free (eventually once enough has been built up).
Of course, there's still thr legacy options like spotify, iTunes, Amazon but that involves the legacy model you mentioned. But I'm trying to woo people over, guess there aren't too many dnb heads around 😜
I also do the Bluffer's Guide to Steem and wrote a comprehensive guide to the rewards pool a while ago but I may start it up again with the new acquisition. Always good to have a refresh anyway