Working as a Recording Artist

Everything you need to know while working as a recording artist.

Last updated: 03 October 2023

A recording artist is a musician that performs songs or musical compositions in a studio-like setting for the purpose of recording and releasing them to the public. A recording artist can be a singular individual, a band, or even a massive symphony.

Member benefits and services

Royalty Distribution for Recordings

The MU Royalties department collects between £1.5 million to £2 million a year for musicians for the secondary and further use of recordings.

Collective Bargaining

The MU negotiates collective bargaining agreements with broadcasters and umbrella organisations for other regular employers of session musicians.

Maximised Pay for Recording Musicians

Our aim is to maximise the pay and employment of UK session musicians, and to collect every secondary use fee they are due.

Contract Advisory Service

If you're a member, the MU can help you make sure the contract you sign is fair and includes all necessary clauses.

Unpaid Fee Recovery

We can help when you haven't been paid properly for your work.

Personal Injury Claims

Legal benefits package for you and your family via Morrish Solicitors.

Latest news and features

A Black male musician wearing a baseball cap singing into a microphone.

Have Your Say on the Value of Black British Music

Artists, creators and industry professionals working with Black British music are encouraged to take part in the survey to understand the value that the artform brings to the UK music industry.

Published: 04 December 2024

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Register to Attend Free Launchpad Conference 2025 in Leeds

Taking place on March 28 2025, Launchpad Conference in Leeds offers a day of panels, workshops and networking for music industry professionals and those interested in working in the industry.

Published: 29 November 2024

The Welsh flag against a light blue sky.

Take the Creative Wales Industry Survey 2024

Businesses, employers, employees and freelancers in the creative sector in Wales are invited to take part in a short survey to help Creative Wales strengthen their support of the creative industries.

Published: 21 November 2024

MU Appoints First-Ever Permanent Officer for Northern Ireland

The Musicians’ Union has appointed its first-ever Regional Officer for Northern Ireland, marking an important point of progress for our members in the region.

Published: 21 November 2024

This is Music Report Reveals UK Music Industry Contributed Record £7.6 Billion to UK Economy

UK Music’s annual economic report shows a record year for the music industry, while musicians affected by Brexit continue to see their earnings fall.

Published: 20 November 2024

Contact the Musicians' Union today

The MU has a network of experienced teams available to help musicians in all areas of the industry. If you have any questions about our services, membership or how the MU could help you, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

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