The report outlines key recommendations for industry leaders, policymakers and funders. Credit: Shutterstock.
Yesterday, Youth Music launched its new 'Just the Way It Is?' report, responding to the growing number of young creatives calling for improved safety and rights in music.
The MU was closely involved throughout the project, together with Music Guardians, and is supporting its launch. The report aims to give the music community the clarity and confidence needed to help create safer, fairer spaces where the next generation can truly thrive.
Young people are calling for change
'Just the Way It Is?' reveals how unsafe environments, discrimination and exploitation continue to shape the experiences of young people working across the music industries, with marginalised creatives most affected.
The report reflects a wider industry reckoning and what Youth Music is calling the ‘Raye Effect’, as artists, workers and campaigners are speaking out following in the footsteps of established artists like Raye about the urgent need to reform exploitative practices.
Drawing on testimonies from 19 young people, the report outlines key recommendations for industry leaders, policymakers and funders, and includes practical guidance to help young creatives navigate the music industries more safely.
Join us for the launch event
To celebrate the report's launch, Dr Diljeet Bhachu, MU Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, will be taking part in an online Youth Music panel to talk about what real action looks like for young creatives, and how to bridge the gap between generations.
Joined by Katy Lana-Hall (Music Guardians) and Jeenat Mohammed (UP2STNDRD), the event will explore moving past the issues of being taken advantage of and focusing on how we can proactively make things better. This panel will be a reflective and educational Q&A to ensure everyone leaves with practical tips, solid strategies and confidence.
- Date: Friday 23 January 2026
- Time: 11:00am - 12:30pm
Sign up for your free place
Read the full report and learn more, including related resources and recommendations for policy makers, sector support organisations and industry employers.