If I'm expected to perform at 80% of my job, then so should everyone else. It's not the consumer damaging the music community, either. Blame the record labels for that. Most people, despite having free means to steal ALL the music they want with no repercussions, still purchase some subscription software.
Singles may be mediocre on content, but they also have the most "infectious" production values. I don't know how to quantify that value; what makes a song catchy and drives consumers, no idea. But singles are the bread winner. Lyrics come 2nd to the actual sound. People want the catchy tune that comes with singles.
Some artists can fill the rest of the album, and some can't.