New Report Finds Black Music Responsible for 80% of Music Revenue

A new report has found that Black music is a “central force powering the UK Music industry”, with the figures outlining a commercial contribution of 80 per cent equivalent to £24.5 billion out of a total £30 billion UK market.

A report commissioned by UK Music, which the UK Music Diversity Taskforce initiated as one of the first of its kind in Europe measured the unique commerical, cultural and community impact of Black Music across 30 years of recorded music (1994 to 2023).

Acknowledged in the report as Community Partners for the incredible work done across Black Music, Action for Diversity and Development, Black Lives in Music, Black Music Coalition, BLACMEX, Mixtape Madness, MOBO Group, PRS Foundation / Power Up, Punch Records, ReMap, Trench were all listed.

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.”

The report also shares eight recommendations on how the industry can drive further economic growth by supporting Black Music. You can read the report here.