Black music has generated a staggering 80 per cent of the UK’s recorded music revenue over the past three decades, new figures have revealed. This significant contribution amounts to £24.5 billion out of a total £30 billion in the recorded music market.
A comprehensive report by industry body UK Music, titled “Black Music Means Business: Driving Economic Growth In The UK”, delved into the cultural and commercial impact of black music. The study defined black music as genres rooted in the culture, beliefs, and traditions of Black people and the African diaspora.
Over the last 30 years, Black music from both British and international artists has been a dominant force. The report categorised genres into three groups, highlighting their individual contributions. Black British genres, including Dubstep, Grime, and Lovers Rock, collectively generated over £1.24 billion. Core black music genres such as African genres, Hip-Hop, Rap, and Motown, amassed £4.83 billion in sales. Furthermore, genres originating from Black music but produced by British artists, like Blues, Pop, and Rock, contributed a substantial £11.9 billion.
Ammo Talwar, chair of UK Music’s Diversity Taskforce, which spearheaded the report, stated: “The aim of the report is to act as an advocacy tool and rallying cry, that is a catalyst for ongoing analysis, growth, increased representation, equity and stronger collaboration, thereby building confidence in Black music. The report should give us great optimism for the future of black British music. However, this phenomenal cultural force must be nurtured.”
The research drew on data spanning from 1994 to 2023, complemented by interviews and roundtable discussions with music industry executives and artists. It aimed to assess Black music’s role in shaping national identity, its commercial prowess, and its influence on community and music infrastructure across the country.
Despite its immense economic and cultural footprint, the report also exposed significant challenges. It identified a persistent lack of representation for Black talent in senior industry positions, an ongoing pay gap, and considerable barriers to career progression.
To address these disparities, the report put forward several recommendations. These include advocating for the recognition of Black music genres within the school curriculum, government-led investment to bolster Black music, and enhanced industry support for performance venues and recording studios.
Paulette Long, vice chair of UK Music Diversity Taskforce, commented: “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, UK Music chief executive, underscored Black music’s integral role in “powering music in the UK”, stressing the imperative to continually evolve the music industry to genuinely reflect “the full diversity of the UK”.
