Study shows most musicians can’t afford equipment

98% of musicians are worried about earning enough income in the next six months and half are ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ concerned their financial situation could cause them to bow out of the industry entirely.

500 musicians were interviewed for the study. 90% said they’re anxious about affording food, and 84% are unsure if they’ll be able to cover mortgage or rental costs.

The grim statistics don’t stop there. 60% said they’re earning less than a year ago, and 80% also added that they are now financially worse off than before the pandemic.

Chief Executive of Help Musicians, James Ainscough, said that it’s ‘hard to image any point since the Second World War when it has been tougher to be a professional musician’.

The music industry has been hit particularly hard as many rely on venues and live performances to earn a living. The effects of lockdowns and a pandemic are still being felt, with more stages permanently shut and less access to much needed resources.

What are Help Musicians doing to aid those in need?

It has just announced an £8 million support measure scheme, which includes expansion of debt management and financial crisis advice services, touring support, and greater investment in its 24/7 mental health platform, Music Minds Matter.

That’s all good, of course, but what can you do as a consumer?

While individual action is limited, there are meaningful ways to help out. Supporting your favourite acts by purchasing merchandise, albums, and tickets to shows is a good start if you can afford it. Reaching out on social media and spreading the word about bands you’re into can go a long way, too.

Legal proceedings and pleas are currently underway. A hearing was held at the House of Lords in September, lead by industry insiders and the #CarryOnTouring campaign, to show the damage that Brexit has done to touring and live music.

Five organisations representing the UK hospitality sector also wrote an open letter to government in August calling for urgent action. We’ll have to see if there will be any kind of response from Westminster in due course.