A groundbreaking initiative has been launched to give UK music fans a direct voice in the future of live music. The Music Fans’ Voice Survey, launched on February 3, 2025, offers gig-goers a unique opportunity to influence how the UK music industry is regulated and run by highlighting the issues which are most important to them. This fan-driven project aims to ensure that decisions affecting live music, from grassroots venues to large-scale events, reflect the perspectives of those who attend them.
With a completion time of just 15 minutes, this survey is designed to be accessible to all UK residents who care about the future of live music. The collected data will be utilised to advocate for change at multiple levels, from local councils to national government policies and within pockets of the industry itself. The initiative is particularly crucial as grassroots venues continue to struggle, and parts of the country become increasingly isolated from live music experiences.
https://t.co/BYZ8hwVRw7 Music Fans’ Voice is a comprehensive quantitative survey, with qualitative elements, has been designed by CGA by NiQ, and has undergone four rounds of music industry feedback, with input from members of the LIVE and UK Music trade bodies.
— Music Fans’ Voice (@MusicFansVoice) February 3, 2025
Live music venues across the UK face mounting challenges, including rising operational costs, declining venue numbers, and accessibility concerns. Reports indicate that many regions are seeing a slump in touring circuit stops, leaving entire communities without access to live performances. Addressing these concerns is a priority, and the Music Fans’ Voice Survey aims to provide the public a data driven voice in meaningful policy change.
Commissioned by Greater Manchester Combined Authority, The Mayor of London, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, West Midlands Combined Authority, Tees Valley Combined Authority, Cardiff City Council, Belfast City Council, and Glasgow Music City, this initiative reflects a collective effort to sustain and improve live music nationwide. It has naturally seen enthusiastic support from key UK city leaders, who have emphasised the importance of live music and this survey’s potential to shape the future of the UK music industry.
The Music Fans’ Voice survey was commissioned by @greatermcr, @MayorofLondon, @LpoolCityRegion, @WestMids_CA, @TeesValleyCA , @CdiffMusicCity, @belfastcc and @GlasgowCC pic.twitter.com/T2E3b6JNVD
— Music Fans’ Voice (@MusicFansVoice) February 3, 2025
These leaders recognise the significance of live music in their communities and are encouraging fans to participate:
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, highlighted the cultural and economic importance of music to the region: “Music has always been central to Greater Manchester, whether through culture, identity, or its huge economic contribution. However, music is nothing without its fans. We want to hear from music fans across Greater Manchester and the country to properly understand their views and thoughts about the UK music sector.”
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, emphasised the urgency of supporting grassroots venues: “Our live music industry is world-renowned, with an incredible diversity of artists performing in venues of all sizes every night. However, grassroots venues continue to face significant challenges. This survey is a fantastic opportunity for music lovers to have their voices heard, helping us build a better London for everyone.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, reinforced Liverpool’s legacy in live music: “The Liverpool City Region has always been at the heart of live music in the UK, and I’m proud to support this initiative, which will give music fans a real voice in shaping the future of our vibrant music scene.”
Katie Duffy, Senior Arts and Music Programmes Manager at Glasgow Life, highlighted Glasgow’s rich music heritage: “As the UK’s first UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow offers one of the most immersive live music experiences in the world. Live music is part of our city’s identity, bringing communities together, supporting jobs, and driving our visitor and night-time economies.”
The Music Fans’ Voice Survey is modelled after successful Football Supporters’ Association surveys, which have significantly influenced football governance and fan engagement. By adopting a similar approach, the initiative seeks to ensure that music fans are at the heart of discussions about ticketing, venue accessibility, and the future of live performances.
Music lovers across the UK are encouraged to take part in this first-of-its-kind survey. Their feedback will be instrumental in shaping the policies and initiatives that will sustain and improve the UK’s live music ecosystem.
For more information and to take the survey, visit: Music Fans’ Voice Official Website.
This is an unprecedented opportunity for fans to make a real impact on the future of live music in the UK. Don’t miss your chance to have your say.
