Spotify reveals Music Relief initiative for artists affected by coronavirus pandemic

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Spotify has revealed a Music Relief initiative for artists affected by the coronavirus pandemic, which ‘recommends verified organisations that offer financial relief to those in the music community most in need around the world’. 

“Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Spotify has engaged partners across the industry to discuss how we can support artists and the creative community who have been deeply impacted by the effects of the virus. Though streaming continues to play a key role in connecting creators with their fans, numerous other sources of revenue have been interrupted or stopped altogether by this crisis,” a statement from Spotify reads. 

The partner organisations involved in Music Relief include MusiCares, PRS Foundation and Help Musicians, although more are expected to join soon. Donations to these partners will be made by Spotify, which will also match donations made to the dedicated fundraising page up to a total of $10million. 

A new feature is also set to become functional on the platform, allowing individual artists to drive fans to specific fundraising pages as the crisis continues. This could be used to generate revenue for themselves, other musicians or any cause they deem worthy. 

Check the full details over on Spotify, where you’ll also find information about other offers for music makers, including discounts for SoundBetter and Anchor’s Listener Support, and free trials of Soundtrap for educators. 

Music Relief is the latest in a growing list of relief funds for creatives — a sign of just how badly impacted associated sectors have been by the coronavirus pandemic. PRS for Music, Germany’s GEMA organisation and UK Arts Council are all opening up schemes to help.