Brexit Blues: UK Music Industry Suffers as Artists Face Touring Turmoil

In a bold move to highlight the plight of the UK music industry post-Brexit, the European Movement UK has escalated its 'Face the Music' campaign. By plastering billboards across key UK cities, they aim to shed light on the significant challenges musicians face due to the loss of freedom of movement. This initiative underscores the urgent need for government action to mitigate the harsh impact on a sector vital to the UK's cultural and economic fabric.

Billboard Campaign Strikes a Chord

Starting in London, home to iconic music venues like the Royal Opera House and the Roadhouse, the campaign has now expanded to other cities rich in musical heritage such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Bristol. The message is clear: Brexit red tape is stifling the UK's music scene, causing a decline in talent and economic loss. Freelance artists, instrumental manufacturers, and the broader music ecosystem are feeling the brunt, with rising export costs and the absence of EU passports limiting opportunities for work and growth.

Impact on the Music Industry

The music industry, a powerhouse contributing £1.1bn to the UK economy, is witnessing a troubling trend. Artists are relocating to Europe, tours are being canceled, and the UK's reputation as a music haven is at risk. The European Movement UK emphasizes that the issues extend beyond individual artists, affecting venues, tour managers, and technicians alike. The 'Face the Music' project, coupled with a petition calling for visa-free travel agreements for artists, is a testament to the campaign's commitment to reviving the UK's musical prestige.

A Call for Action

Launched on February 6, the campaign has quickly gained traction, amassing 24,000 petition signatures and generating significant online engagement through personal stories of affected musicians. The public's positive reception of the billboards indicates a widespread acknowledgment of the problem and support for the cause. However, the ultimate goal remains to prompt the UK government into negotiating practical solutions to the barriers facing the music industry post-Brexit.

The European Movement UK's initiative highlights the stark reality facing the UK music industry in the wake of Brexit. As the campaign gains momentum, it serves as a crucial reminder of the cultural and economic importance of music to the UK. The call to 'Face the Music' is not just a plea for awareness but a demand for change, urging the government to acknowledge the sector's challenges and work towards a harmonious future for UK artists and the music industry at large.