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#WorkNotPlayMU

Empowering Musicians to Say No to Unpaid Work

Being a musician is not a hobby – it’s our profession.

71%* musicians have been asked to work for free*
54% * are asked to work for “exposure”*
£5K+* amount lost per person per year to free work**

* Source: *MU and **IPSE data

Music is work, not play

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Great to see @WeAreTheMU taking this up with the BBC. @bbcstrictly #ItTakesTwo should absolutely pay artists for their work.

@ScarletHarris avatar
@ScarletHarris
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I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been asked to play for free or been asked “So what’s your real job?” Every time it happens I take a moment and think about all the incredible fans and their support, you are all amazing! #WorkNotPlayMU

@PaulCarella avatar
@PaulCarella
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Repeat after me: people in the arts can not pay for food or rent with 'good exposure'. If you want musicians to play, PAY THEM.

@jayrayner1 avatar
@jayrayner1
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Thanks to those who retweeted. They have issued an apology and we can only hope that they will follow @WeAreTheMU guidelines and pay musicians with money and not pizza 🍕

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@ChrissieFadipe
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Latest stories

Silhouette of man on stage playing electric guitar, lit up back lights

MU Responds to Leadmill Venue Management Change

Management of The Leadmill is calling on musicians and fans to share their memories of the iconic Sheffield venue, following the news that they will be evicted from the premises at the end of the year.

Published: 08 April 2022

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Stage with bright lights and microphones ready for concert

Getting Paid When Asked to Work For Free

Despite the devastating impact of the pandemic, incidences of musicians being asked to play for free are still rife. Neil Crossley examines how the MU is responding and what musicians can do.

Published: 23 December 2021

Read more about Getting Paid When Asked to Work For Free

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