PRS for Music perform U-turn on proposed livestream tariff

PRS (Performing Rights Society) for Music have just announced they're reversing the decision to introduce a flat-fee tariff for ticketed livestream events that gross less that £500. 

In one of the more ill-judged moves to impact musicians and grassroots venues throughout the pandemic, it would've unfairly targeted artists who generate less revenue than some of the major, glossier ticketed livestreams that are now commonplace. Members can now apply for a license to perform their own works for streamed events throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

With venues closed for the foreseeable, livestreams are one of the only ways struggling artists can generate an income and the tariff drew widespread criticism from the music community. Music Venue Trust's CEO commented: “It is a tax in the middle of a crisis on people who need the money. No venues or promoters are making money – it’s for artists or for charities they care about.”

PRS have now reconsidered after receiving an open letter from the Featured Artists Coalition (FAC) and the Music Managers Forum (MMF) which included signatures from representatives of Liam Gallagher, Arctic Monkeys, Dua Lipa and more:

For further information on the new Online Live Concert license, follow the link to the PRS for Music website here.