Music’s contribution to UK economy must be celebrated, but more work is required to ensure Midlands is not left behind.
Following the announcement that music has contributed a record £7.6 billion to the UK economy, Lyle Bignon, music consultant and NTE Ambassador for Birmingham working on behalf of the NTIA, said: “Figures just released as part of UK Music’s annual ‘This Is Music’ report demonstrate the sector’s economic value continues to grow significantly.
“These findings are very welcome. They are also testament to the achievements of the 210,000 workers across live and recorded music as well as in secondary and tertiary industries, particularly given the immense challenges currently facing live music and NTE.
“Campaigns by industry bodies including the Music Venue Trust and the NTIA have resulted in major key wins recently, including Parliament’s Culture, Media & Sport Select Committee recommendation on an arena ticket levy, and the Government U-turn on extending smoking bans to NTE businesses. Yet it is well-documented our industries still face a hugely uncertain future.
“Crucially, it is not just the stability of clubs, festivals and venues – where emerging artists and DJs learn their craft and build their fanbases and livelihoods – that is at risk, but the many specialist jobs, supply chain businesses, and communities who benefit from cultural enrichment though music too.
“Whilst music output in Birmingham and the Midlands still supports thousands of jobs and delivers millions in GVA to local and national economies, we must emphasise our concerns that without further intervention for live music and NTE, or incentives for new businesses and the development of further infrastructure here, our region is likely to be left trailing behind other areas of the UK.
“Local and regional authorities in the region have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to demonstrate they really do value culture – and specifically music. We have much to celebrate in terms of our music heritage and contemporary output, plus the opportunities for growth are – theoretically, and with the right leadership – endless.
“Once again, we call on our political leaders to consult with us, and pledge their support via policies, funding and task forces to develop and secure our position as a global centre for music.”
Best Wishes
Lyle Bignon
UK & Europe Media, Music, NTE, and PR Consultant, Night Time Economy Ambassador for Birmingham, Night Time Industries Association (NTIA)
