As independent music gains ground, A2IM leaves no artist behind

The resilient nature of independent music fuels innovation, collaboration and disruption in the industry. With the help of independent artist advocacy groups like the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) leading the way, independent musicians and labels around the world are collectively entering a new era of music.

According to a semi-annual music report from Luminate, formerly Neilsen Music, on-demand audio streaming grew 15% compared to the first half of 2023. The share of total streams from independent artists also increased across the market.

The report also reveals that independent artists accounted for 62.1% of all artists who totaled between 1 and 10 million on-demand audio streams in the United States during the first half of 2024. Those who reached more than 500 million On-demand audio streams increased by more than two. percent in the first half of this year compared to the second half of 2023.

However, advances in streaming do not benefit all independent artists. Musician and A2IM CEO Richard James Burgess says mid-tier artists aren’t making the same gains.

“Streaming has been positive because it creates stability and income. Although it’s not very good for mid-tier artists, which is what really concerns me,” says Burgess. “Touring is also quite difficult for mid-level artists, but we are at a turning point where super fans have the opportunity to help close the gap.”

Often called “the voice of independent music,” A2IM promotes growth, awareness and opportunities for its 600+ independent music label members and 200+ associate members. Through education and community advocacy, the nonprofit trade organization is approaching 20 years of operation with a presence on Capitol Hill advocating on behalf of the global music community.

A first-of-its-kind press conference and mini-concert recently attracted attention in Washington DC featuring Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL), Congressman Dan Kildee (D-MI) , Congressman Greg Casar (D-TX) and Congresswoman. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (Democrat of New York). The event highlighted new legislation to create federal grant programs to support the work of emerging artists.

Aimed at advancing equity, diversity, and opportunities for creatives to pursue fulfilling careers in the arts, the Cultivating Resources for Emerging Artists to Thrive and Excel (CREATE) Arts Act would create four new federal grant programs . Funds could be used to cover various expenses, including instruments, live performances, studio time, marketing, and living and travel expenses.

Louis Posen, President of Hopeless Records, says, “At Hopeless, we understand that community is what allowed us to start, grow and thrive over our 30-year history. A2iM is at the heart of the independent music community as a playing field advocate and educator of opportunities, knowledge and connections. Although each member may be independent, together we make each other better and stronger.

A2IM also provided key support for the ELVIS
Vanguard Industries ETF
Act addressing the risks of artificial intelligence (AI) and HITS Act supporting tax relief for independent artists. There’s also the Working Musicians Protection Act, which allows independent artists to collectively negotiate payments from streaming services and the use of their work by AI algorithms. And the Fans First Act which would bring more transparency to live event ticketing to level out prices and help end illegal ticket sales.