What the This Is Music 2025 Report Means for the UK, and the Yorkshire Coast’s Creative Community

The This Is Music report from UK Music, released in the last quarter of 2025 provides a clear snapshots of the state of the UK’s music ecosystem. Published annually, it brings together economic modelling, export data, employment figures, and insights from thousands of music creators, studios, venues and industry professionals. It is widely used by policymakers and cultural organisations to understand both the strength of the industry and the pressures shaping its future.

This year, Beckview Studios had the unexpected honour of appearing in the report. The image featured, taken by local photographer and co-founder of Yorkshire Coast Gigs CIC, David Ruston, was included after the Executive Director of the Music Producers Guild reached out to request studio photographs. After several encouraging exchanges with him over the past year, it was a wonderful surprise to see Beckview included. It also created a meaningful link between the national conversation and the thriving music community here on the Yorkshire Coast.

A Strong Year for UK Music - With Critical Warning Signs

At headline level, the industry continues to demonstrate remarkable strength:

• The UK music industry contributed an estimated £8 billion in Gross Value Added in 2024.

• Music exports rose to £4.8 billion, reinforcing the UK’s global impact.

• Employment in music-related roles reached around 220,000 full-time equivalent positions, the highest on record

However, the report also highlights a noticeable slowdown in growth compared with the postpandemic recovery. Several structural challenges are becoming increasingly urgent:

Dave Ruston Photography

AI and Creativity

Around 90% of surveyed creators expressed concern about the use of their work by artificial intelligence without permission or payment. The call for clearer protections and ethical frameworks has become one of the defining issues of the moment.

Touring Barriers

Despite industry pressure, post-Brexit touring in Europe remains complex and costly. For emerging artists, these barriers limit access to audiences and income streams that were once far more attainable.

Studio Sustainability and Business Rates

Recording studios continue to experience financial strain, with business rates reform cited as one of the most urgent interventions needed. UK Music and the Music Producers Guild are calling for changes to ensure studios can continue operating as vital creative hubs.

Breakthrough Timeframes Increasing

The report notes that artists are now taking longer to reach sustainable careers. With rising costs and a more competitive digital landscape, development pathways require more support than ever.

Government Commitment: The Music Growth Package

In her contribution to the report, the Rt Honourable Yvette Cooper (MP), Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the industry through the newly announced Music Growth Package. This initiative allocates up to £10 million per year for the next three years to support touring, export development, mentoring and grassroots activity. The goal is to strengthen the pipeline of new talent and ensure artists can access opportunities across borders

What This Means for Regional Creators

These national trends are deeply relevant for regions like the Yorkshire Coast. While local scenes are vibrant and full of potential, they can also feel the impact of national pressures more acutely. Particularly in terms of touring viability, venue sustainability, and access to high-quality development spaces. And yet, the Yorkshire Coast continues to produce exceptional songwriters, bands and producers. The region’s creativity is abundant; what it needs is visibility, infrastructure and supportive environments that champion artists at every stage.

Beckview Studios’ Ongoing Commitment

Here at Beckview Studios, we remain committed to providing exactly that kind of supportive space. Our artist-focused services and packages, our Lounge and live recording opportunities, our work with developing North Sea Soundcheck, and ongoing collaborations across the local scene are part of a wider effort to raise the profile of the Yorkshire Coast as a destination for creative excellence. We are proud to support grassroots, emerging and established artists. Offering a space that is not only technically equipped but deeply invested in the wellbeing and artistic growth of everyone who walks through the door.

Looking Ahead

The This Is Music 2025 report paints a picture of an industry rich in potential but facing significant turning points. Decisions made in the next few years, particularly on technology, touring, funding and grassroots support, will shape the landscape future artists inherit. For our part, we’ll continue celebrating the incredible talent in our region, shining a light on grassroots creativity, and contributing to the national conversation wherever we can.