We are at the vanguard of the effort to combat racism, uniting organisations and musicians to create a truly inclusive and diverse music industry.
We use data and insights to campaign for equity and we support the empowerment of Black musicians to realise their aspirations.
Earlier this year, Black Lives in Music commissioned a survey on the personal experience of Black music creators and industry professionals. The survey engaged with nearly 2,000 respondents. The subsequent report now published has produced key information and an insight into the experience of the Black professionals in today’s music industry.
Out of 1,345 members of staff, only 28 – or around 2% – were from a Black, Asian or other ethnically diverse backgrounds.*
There is no data or report that spotlights the Black Musicians’ experience such as economics, social interactions, education to talent pipeline and well being.
Organisations are rarely held to account concerning data insights and recommendations. To ensure these same organisations continue to receive funding there is a tick box, tokenistic mentality with the promotion of Black people from entry level to mid-management roles. There are almost no appointments in senior management roles.
Most surveys are not completed in a safe space or in anonymous fashion therefore people of colour rarely participate due to a lack of trust.
Supporting Change from Within
Black Lives in Music support the music community to act on and achieve diversity and inclusion objectives for a truly representative music industry.
Supporting organisations in the development of a balanced professional ensemble with people of colour
Recruitment of people of colour representing senior management/board level
Trusted DEI data capture
Mentoring programmes and support for the progression of Black musicians into professional ensembles
Orchestras and professional Ensembles
Universities
Conservatoires
Opera, Theatres, Venues, Festivals, Trade Bodies and more...
To enable music organisations to reflect the nation’s diverse culture and to combat systemic racism in the music industry, we have created a 10-step digital charter which we expect all music organisations to agree to meet. Sign up to our charter now and join us by becoming a member of Black Lives in Music today.
