(Hype Bot) – A new report explores the challenges facing songwriters. “Songwriters Take the Stage” is based on a first-of-its-kind survey of more than 300 songwriters, providing an in-depth understanding of their needs and recommendations for support.
67% of songwriters surveyed cited a lack of meaningful streaming revenue as a major obstacle to their success.
The MIDiA research report highlights the huge income disparity among songwriters, with only 10% of songwriters surveyed earning more than $30,000 a year and 54% earning less than $1,000. 67% of respondents believe the main challenge is the lack of meaningful streaming income, which affects songwriters at all career stages.
When asked about the challenges songwriters face, most define success as creative fulfillment and earning a sustainable living through their skills. Additionally, the report reveals a strong desire among songwriters for sync opportunities, highlighting the critical role sync deals play in the publishing industry.
Songwriters need support and services
The new MIDiA report also shows a disconnect between what songwriters want to achieve and the tools and services available.
While many are eager for a sync deal, they don’t see sync services as the primary reason for signing a publishing deal. The songwriter also wants to improve his skills but admits to not actively pursuing available resources.
Most songwriters aim to build a brand and fan base around their songwriting on social media, highlighting the growing importance of online presence and recognition.
Notably, the report highlights the need for the music industry to better understand the songwriter business, especially in an era when many songwriters are also performers with varying desires and needs.
Tatiana SirisanoMIDiA Research’s senior music industry analysts highlight the issue of songwriter underrepresentation and the importance of this report in understanding the songwriter business. “There are a lot of studies and surveys on artists that helped build the booming artist services market we have today, but that’s not the case for songwriters,” says Sirisano. “This report is a critical step in better understanding the songwriter business, especially in an era when many songwriters are also performers but have different desires and needs for both crafts.”
Fernanda Balzaretti, Music researchers at MIDiA Research are co-authors of the report.
Download a free summary of the Songwriters Stage Report here.
Bruce Horton He is the founder and editor of Hypebot, senior consultant at Bandsintown, president of Skyline Artists Agency, and professor at the Berkeley School of Music.
