Let The Music Play Campaign Launches Second Phase

UK Music’s Let The Music Play campaign has launched its second phase, calling for further support for the live sector during these difficult times.

The campaign was first launched in early July, and we called on members and musicians to get involved by promoting the key calls to action, and the open letter to Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden, through their own social media channels.

Government action following the launch of the campaign

Since the launch of the campaign, the Government has announced a £1.57bn support package for the arts. Although we welcome the package, however we still need to ensure that eligibility for grants and loans is as broad as possible to ensure maximum take-up from across the industry from those in desperate need of help.

Also those that don’t have a track record of public funding must also not be put at a disadvantage and we are seeking urgent talks with Government to discuss further.

As part of his summer statement Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a VAT cut from 20% to 5% for businesses in tourism and hospitality, which includes concerts and shows. The Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport also announced that there would be easing of restrictions to allow open-air performances to resume from Saturday in a very limited way.

However, this is only the first stage on the long road to get live music back on its feet. It is more critical than ever that Govt ensures the scope of its support is broad enough and continues for long enough to help the tens of thousands in our industry who are still unable to return to work.

Take action for musicians

Part two of @UK_Music's #LetTheMusicPlay focuses on the people behind the scenes.

The live music industry supports 200,000 jobs across the UK. At least 60% of those jobs are now at risk.

Everyone in the music sector must be able to access support > https://t.co/kh8dTZoz1A pic.twitter.com/cGG4SvIw8C

— Musicians' Union (@WeAreTheMU) August 4, 2020

The second phase of the campaign is moving on to include those working behind the scenes in the live music industry as well. The industry supports 200,000 jobs across the UK. At least 60% of those jobs are now at risk. Everyone in the music sector must be able to access support.

Share a message through social media in solidarity with the people who you work with, using #LetTheMusicPlay.

And remember to join us in writing to Rishi, calling for the extension of the SEISS scheme and other measures of sector specific support – use our template letter to get started.