skip to main content

Kevin Brennan MP Elected as Chair of APPG on Music

The MU welcomes the news that Kevin Brennan MP has been elected by MPs and Peers as the new Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Music.

Published: 20 May 2022 | 1:25 PM Updated: 20 May 2022 | 2:06 PM
Official portrait of Kevin Brennan MP. Kevin has short brown hair and is wearing glasses, a dark brown striped suit and blue shirt with brown tie.
“Kevin has been a staunch supporter of musicians, songwriters and the MU for many years". Image credit: Gov.uk.

With more than 100 members, the APPG is one of the largest groups in Westminster. It brings together MPs, Peers and the music industry to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

Kevin has played a leading role in the MU’s campaign to Fix Streaming in partnership with The Ivors Academy, on the DCMS Select Committee, and in the bill to Fix Streaming that went to Parliament in December. The Bill, a Private Members Bill that was nicknamed the Brennan Bill, has helped secure a commitment from Government to come back to legislation if attempts to work out an industry solution fails.

Following his election, Kevin said:

“I’m looking forward to working with all sectors of the UK’s world-leading music industry on a huge range of issues. This is a crucial time for the sector and I hope we can all work together to bring about positive changes and grow the industry.”

The MU congratulates Kevin

In response to the news Naomi Pohl, MU General Secretary said:

“Kevin has been a staunch supporter of musicians, songwriters and the MU for many years and I can’t think of anyone more qualified or passionate to Chair the APPG.

"We are grateful for his work on music streaming in particular and look forward to continuing to work together to get a better deal for our members”.

Phil Kear, MU Assistant General Secretary also added:

“Congratulations to Kevin Brennan on his election to Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Music. Kevin's been an absolutely immense advocate for musicians and music creators for many years.

"I can't think of anyone better to lead this vital political group to help bring about the growth and positive change the music industry so desperately needs."

#FixStreaming

Take urgent action to fix streaming

Call on Parliament to back music streaming royalties for non-featured artists

Take urgent action to fix streaming

Continue reading

Musician playing acoustic guitar, facing the setting sun and a crowd, performing at a festival. Flags and fairy lights are out of focus in the background.

UK Artist Touring Fund Announces Second Phase Artists

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT) has announced the 49 artists receiving support in its latest funding round, following the expansion of the scheme to help more UK artists navigate the ongoing cost-of-touring crisis.

Published: 06 November 2026

Read more about UK Artist Touring Fund Announces Second Phase Artists
Black background with wooden stick figures placed on top in different colours, some also represent wheelchair users.

Attitude is Everything Publish the State of Access Report 2026

This week, Attitude is Everything published the State of Access Report 2026, the charity’s first major research report in eight years, revealing persistent and widespread barriers to accessibility across the UK music and live events sector, despite signs of progress in access provision.

Published: 05 November 2026

Read more about Attitude is Everything Publish the State of Access Report 2026
A calculator and pair of glasses on top of a sound mixing desk.

Member Benefit: Discounted Tax Advice for Musicians

From royalties and advances to self-employment, PAYE and international work, musicians often have unique tax needs. MU members can access discounted advice from qualified tax professionals with experience of the music industry.

Published: 01 November 2026

Read more about Member Benefit: Discounted Tax Advice for Musicians
Close up hands playing an organ.

MU Redesigns Organists and Ceremonies Rates

Sector expertise, including contributions from the Royal College of Organists (RCO) and MU/RCO joint members, helped shape the new rates, which introduce new categories, updated guidance and a 3% uplift for 2026 to better reflect organists' working practices and responsibilities.

Published: 30 October 2026

Read more about MU Redesigns Organists and Ceremonies Rates