‘This is Music 2025’ reveals record-breaking UK music sector

At BIMM, we’ve been launching students into the music industry for over 40 years. And right now, there’s never been a more exciting time to join the industry. The UK music scene is breaking records, creating jobs, and influencing global culture like never before.

A booming industry with real impact 

The annual ‘This is Music’ report has long been the go-to source for understanding the state of the UK music industry. This year’s findings are nothing short of inspiring: the industry contributed a record £8 billion to the UK economy in 2025 – a 5% rise from 2023, showing how much the music business is accelerating.

This momentum is creating real opportunities. Employment in the sector has reached 220,000 full-time equivalent roles, spanning creators, performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and countless behind-the-scenes specialists who make the music world turn.

This is Music 2024 headline stats

Global reach, global resonance

UK music continues to make waves across the world. Exports soared to £4.8 billion, fuelled by huge international tours and the global success of UK artists. 

Facing challenges and rising above them 

The report also highlights ongoing challenges, from post-Brexit touring hurdles to the impact of unregulated AI. But these aren’t roadblocks; they’re opportunities for the next generation to shape the future of music.

UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl notes: “The Government has committed to a £30 million Music Growth Package and it is vital that these much-needed funds are channelled to boost this cycle, as well as targeting other key issues…This is a pivotal moment for the UK music industry. Let’s come together to make sure we realise our full potential.”

Why this matters

The stats in the report signal real, exciting pathways for people like you who want to build a future in music. Here’s how music industry professionals can tap into this momentum:

• Performance & touring: With live music revenues surging, demand for performers, tour managers, sound techs, and live crew continues to grow.
• Songwriting & publishing: Rising export revenue means a huge appetite for original voices – composers, topliners, lyricists, and more.
• Production & studio work: A booming industry means more recording, more creators, and more need for skilled producers and engineers.

Looking ahead 

As we celebrate another record-breaking year, we’re even more energised about what comes next. BIMM’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, David Rowe, shared his optimism about the future of the UK music scene:

“It is inspiring to see the UK music industry now supporting a record 220,000 jobs and contributing £8 billion to the economy. Despite the challenges facing our music communities, graduates have never had more opportunity to build meaningful careers in a sector we can be proud of.” 

At BIMM, we know exactly how to help you make the most of these growing opportunities. If you’re dreaming of writing the next global hit, performing on major stages, producing world-class music, or building your own creative business, there has never been a better time to step into the industry. 

Your first step into the music industry starts here. Find out how to apply to BIMM today.