Artists Reflect on the Hurdles of 2023 and Look Forward to a Hopeful 2024

The year 2023 posed significant challenges for artists, but as they move into 2024, they carry aspirations for positive change in the music industry, expressing a strong desire to witness a fairer payment system for record sales.

Recounting the Past Year's Struggles

The Featured Artist Coalition's Annual General Meeting turned into a platform for artists from Blur, the former band Easy Life, Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly, and emerging voices like Cherise and LVRA to voice concerns over issues spanning payment, fairness, racial dynamics, educational gaps, and the closing of music venues.

Voicing the Need for Fairness and Sustainability

Artists spotlighted the imperative need for streaming reform, fair merchandise revenue sharing, and the easing of obstacles for international touring. They highlighted the complex nature of the current musical landscape, from the financial viability of touring to achieving visibility amidst the deluge of new content facilitated by AI and streaming services.

Optimism for the Future Amid Challenges

Despite setbacks such as legal battles and financially unviable tours, artists like Murray Matravers remain resilient, focusing on creative endeavors and seeking sustainable modes of functioning within the industry. Simultaneously, the need for transparency with fans and a collective artist-fan voice is emphasized as a crucial step toward shaping a more equitable future in music. The role of education is particularly underscored, with a call for a comprehensive understanding of music rights and the business side of the industry at the educational level.

Looking to 2024 with Determination

As artists anticipate the upcoming general election in 2024, there's a collective call for political parties to acknowledge the music industry's significant economic and cultural contribution, advocating for policies and educational structures that support the artistic community. The conversation at the FAC AGM encapsulates both the disheartening realities of the present and a fervent hope that today's discussions will set the stage for a more just and sustainable tomorrow for artists.

artists, challenges, fairness