Record labels agree to increase pay for musicians and songwriters

Songwriters and musicians are now seeing some positive changes within the music industry, with a boost in pay and more.

Date published: 23rd Jul 2025

A change is on the rise for musicians and songwriters as record labels have agreed upon an increase in their pay. For the first time, songwriters and musicians will now get a daily payment of £75, which will also include travel expenses, any time they attend a session or songwriting camp. 

As a known issue within the music industry, it was highlighted by singer-songwriter Raye at the 2023 Ivor Novello Awards. Known for advocating for her rights to her music and other musicians out there, Raye raised the issue that "an insult" that songwriters were expected to "work for free".

The changes were announced by creative industries minister Sir Chris Bryant, who said he was "sick and tired of musicians having to live with paltry amounts of money" for producing songs that "everybody loves dancing to around their kitchen".

This new deal also provides musicians with a pay increase of up to 40% for attending a recording session, and pop musicians with a pay increase from £130 to £182. 

However, while the new changes don't delve into the minimum royalties rate and copyright laws allowing artists and songwriters the rights to their own music after a set amount of time, it is a move in the right direction. 

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