Black Music Responsible For 80% Of UK Music Revenue, According To Report

A new report has been published that details the role of Black music in the wider UK industry and the UK economy.

Black Music Means Business: Driving Economic Growth In The UK, published by UK Music and industry partners, has said that Black music has contributed 80% (£24.5billion) to the UK music industry over 30 years of recorded music.

The report defines Black music as “music that has its roots and inspiration derived from the culture, beliefs, traditions and history of Black people and the African diaspora. Encompassing a diverse range of musical styles and practices that originated within the African diaspora, regardless of the ethnicity of the musicians creating and performing them.” It later expands on the definition of Black music, saying it is “characterised by distinct rhythmic melodies and harmonic structures that are deeply rooted in African musical traditions, and the storytelling and consciousness of Black communities globally, reflecting their historical, cultural, political and social experiences.”

However, the report adds, despite that overwhelming contribution, around 80% of Black music creators and professionals reported experiencing “persistent patterns of inequity and barriers to progression”. It also added that only 22% of senior music industry professionals identify as Black or of other global majority backgrounds. It also found a 20% documented pay gap for Black artists and industry workers.

Paulette Long OBE, Vice Chair UK Music Diversity Taskforce, said: “Black music has shaped the sound and global success of British music for decades, yet its true commercial value has never been fully recognised. This report makes clear that its contribution is undeniable. The data shows that Black Music is a central commercial driver of the UK music industry, but it also reveals a clear opportunity gap. If we want continued growth and global competitiveness, we must invest in the infrastructure, talent, and leadership behind it. This report is both a celebration and a call to action.”

Tom Kiehl, Chief Executive of UK Music, said: “This groundbreaking report demonstrates the integral role that Black music plays in powering music in the UK. It generates pivotal economic success to both the industry and UK economy as a whole. UK Music wants this report to not only be a point of reference but also a basis for facilitating change and positive action through its recommendations. We must not just recognise this fantastic achievement, but use it to meet our intention to achieve an industry that is genuinely reflective of the full diversity of the UK.”

Eunice Obianagha, Head of Diversity, UK Music, said: “This first of its kind report provides the evidence that can strengthen the industry through better data and increased understanding. It demonstrates both the scale of Black music’s commercial contribution and highlights that some barriers persist. The report shares recommended practical actions that are an opportunity to work collaboratively to help close inequities, unlock further growth and work to ensure the UK music industry is fair and reflective of the rich diversity of the talent that powers it.”

To combat this imbalance and inequity, the report recommends eight actions to “create a long-term commitment from industry and government”, including increased institutional funding, improvements to education, inclusive community access, robust data collection to monitor improvements, and equitable partnerships between industry and Black music practitioners.

Read the full report and list of recommendations here.