Universal Music Group to support musicians and music workers affected by COVID-19

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on music businesses globally, Universal Music Group (UMG) has unveiled plans to support its artists, workers as well as the greater music industry.

A company statement from UMG declares a “global commitment” in its response to COVID-19, and highlights the various initiatives it is implementing.

For artists under its umbrella, UMG states that it will be providing “tools and platforms to reach fans and generate income when touring and other live appearances are not possible”. In addition to this, UMG is offering artists interest-free royalty advances and fee waivers.

Extending its support to the broader music industry, the company has made monetary donations to organisations that focus on music workers like MusiCare and Help Musicians UK.

UMG will also be matching contributions made by its US employees towards charity organisations.

UMG has also said that it will back its artists who’ve started personal projects raising funds for relief aid – saying “whether it’s a special performance, a new song, a helpful message or something else, UMG is backing numerous artist and songwriter initiatives to help those in need”. Some of these projects include Billie Eilish’s colouring book sale, and OneRepublic’s new song release which donates proceeds to UNICEF and MusiCare respectively.

For its own employees, the company has stated that it has “implemented programs to protect workers’ pay and enhanced benefits”. It will also launch the All Together Now Foundation to support employees with “extraordinary needs”.

In recent news, Universal Music Chief Executive Officer Lucian Grainge was hospitalised after testing positive for COVID-19. According to Bloomberg, he is currently undergoing treatment at UCLA Medical Centre.

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