skip to main content

Launch of #LoveMusic Campaign Ahead of Key Copyright Directive Vote on 12 September

September 12 will see a crucial vote on the EU Copyright Directive, which aims to update current legislation and address the balance between billion-pound content platforms, and the meagre profit passed on to the content creators.

Published: 28 August 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

12 September will see a crucial vote on the EU Copyright Directive, which aims to update current legislation and address the balance between billion-pound content platforms, and the meagre profit passed on to the content creators.

MU members may be aware that a recent vote on the proposed EU Copyright Directive was lost. This was in part due to high-profile lobbying from Google, Wikipedia and other major tech companies who say it will affect their services.

There will now be a further vote on 12 September, so we must act fast.

It is essential that musicians and music supporters fight for a fairer deal for everyone in the UK music industry by getting behind the #LoveMusic campaign – combatting the false claims that are being spread by the major tech firms who stand to benefit.

Why #LoveMusic needs your support

Assistant General Secretary Naomi Pohl explains why fast action to support the #LoveMusic campaign is crucial:

“If you make music or simply love music, the UK’s music industry needs your support now.

“The UK music industry, including musicians, songwriters and producers, as well as record labels and music publishers, are united in their support for the directive. It contains various important elements that would benefit creators as well as the wider industry.

“Major tech firms used their enormous financial clout to influence MEPs and worry users of the internet but their claims that the internet would suffer in the wake of the directive being passed were merely a smoke screen.

“Actually, the directive is about ensuring that copyright material is licensed and paid for properly by platforms that host content, not by individual users – and also that performers and creators are given better contractual terms and full transparency in royalty accounting.”

Act now for a fairer digital deal

UK Music are calling on musicians and music lovers to sign their petition and pass the message on over social media using #LoveMusic.

Find out more about the campaign and how you can support it.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

The outside of the BBC Headquarters building.

BEAU Statement on BBC Charter Review Launch

The MU has joined sister unions in writing to Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy to reiterate the key principles that should underpin the BBC Charter Review process.

Published: 18 December 2025

Read more about BEAU Statement on BBC Charter Review Launch
Black and white image of a conductor in front of the orchestra pit in a theatre, cast members are on stage in the background out of focus.

MU Welcomes Arts Council England Review

We broadly welcome Baroness Margaret Hodge’s review of Arts Council England, which reflects many of the concerns raised by the MU and other creative unions. We will now press the government to respond positively to its recommendations.

Published: 18 December 2025

Read more about MU Welcomes Arts Council England Review
Naomi Pohl at Labour Party Conference 2024 holding a placard that says 'Labour's New Deal for Working People'.

Landmark Employment Rights Bill Becomes Law

The MU welcomes passage of the Employment Rights Bill, which will now become law. Shaped by trade union input, the legislation represents an important step forward for workers’ rights, equality and protections, with further reforms for freelancers promised in a second phase.

Published: 16 December 2025

Read more about Landmark Employment Rights Bill Becomes Law
A person's open palm holding a graphic of sound waves.

MU Urges Government to Back Musicians on AI

The MU is urging the Government to drop its original AI proposal after the interim consultation response revealed overwhelming opposition. With only 3% of respondents backing the preferred option, ministers must now deliver robust regulation to protect musicians’ rights.

Published: 16 December 2025

Read more about MU Urges Government to Back Musicians on AI