Today has seen the start of a new campaign spearheaded by artists, venues, and many other businesses in the music industry. The goal of the campaign is to help draw attention to the critical situation which many within the industry are finding themselves in amidst the pandemic.
Soaring across social media under the banner #LetTheMusicPlay, the movement began after the organisation UK Music called on the government to deliver vital updates to those affected.
The organisation which represents the UK’s commercial music sector has asked the government to provide :
“A clear conditional timeline for reopening venues without social distancing”.
“An immediate comprehensive business and employment support package and access to finance”.
“Full VAT exemption on ticket sales.”
Last month, Oxford Economics published a report which has suggested that without sufficient support, the music industry is forecasted to lose at least £3 billion and 60% of jobs.
Alongside these requests for the government, the campaign has also encouraged people to share photos of their last gig on social media, using the hashtag #LetTheMusicPlay. A huge response has been received across all genres of music in support of their beloved artists, venues and event brands.
A letter signed by over 500 artists including dance music legends The Prodigy, Fatboy Slim, Basement Jaxx and The Chemical Brothers has been sent to UK culture secretary Oliver Dowden, calling for the government’s help in this unprecedented time.
What can you do?
Post on social media with a photo of your last gig with #LetTheMusicPlay. Download the campaign images here.
On Wednesday 8 July Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak MP will deliver a Summer Economic Update. You can write to your local MP and ask them to call on the Chancellor in support of Let The Music Play. Find your local MP here.
Read more about the campaign here.
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