The star power of artists like Taylor Swift and Charli XCX helped propel the UK music industry to a record-breaking year in 2024, attracting an unprecedented 23.5 million music tourists who injected a massive £10 billion into the economy. This represents a substantial 26% increase in spending compared to 2023's £8 billion, according to UK Music's newly published "Hometown Glory" report.
The report, released today by UK Music, the collective voice of the UK music industry, highlights the immense economic value of live concerts and festivals across all nations and regions of the UK. It also issues a call to action for communities to actively support their local music scenes to ensure continued growth.
In 2024, the total number of music tourists surged by 23% from 19.2 million in 2023. Domestic music tourists accounted for 21.9 million of this total, a 21% rise, while international visitors saw an impressive 62% jump to 1.6 million, significantly boosted by events like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour. Beyond Swift and Charli XCX, artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Sam Fender, Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, The Killers, Foo Fighters, and more contributed to this boom.
This surge in music tourism also supported 72,000 full-time equivalent jobs in the live music sector, a 16% increase from the previous year. The £10 billion spend comprises £5.1 billion directly from music tourists on tickets, travel, accommodation, and on-site purchases, with an additional £4.9 billion indirectly through the supply chain.
Despite these successes, the "Hometown Glory" report acknowledges significant challenges facing the industry, including rising touring costs, venue closures, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl emphasized the need for local leaders to empower communities and support local music ecosystems, fostering economic growth and cultural pride.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the figures, stating, "These numbers show just how powerful the UK is as a home for live music – attracting the biggest acts, drawing in millions of fans, and giving a real boost to local economies through tourism and jobs." She highlighted the government's recent £30 million Music Growth Package aimed at supporting emerging talent and protecting vital music venues.
The report, released today by UK Music, the collective voice of the UK music industry, highlights the immense economic value of live concerts and festivals across all nations and regions of the UK. It also issues a call to action for communities to actively support their local music scenes to ensure continued growth.
In 2024, the total number of music tourists surged by 23% from 19.2 million in 2023. Domestic music tourists accounted for 21.9 million of this total, a 21% rise, while international visitors saw an impressive 62% jump to 1.6 million, significantly boosted by events like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour. Beyond Swift and Charli XCX, artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Sam Fender, Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, The Killers, Foo Fighters, and more contributed to this boom.
This surge in music tourism also supported 72,000 full-time equivalent jobs in the live music sector, a 16% increase from the previous year. The £10 billion spend comprises £5.1 billion directly from music tourists on tickets, travel, accommodation, and on-site purchases, with an additional £4.9 billion indirectly through the supply chain.
Despite these successes, the "Hometown Glory" report acknowledges significant challenges facing the industry, including rising touring costs, venue closures, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl emphasized the need for local leaders to empower communities and support local music ecosystems, fostering economic growth and cultural pride.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the figures, stating, "These numbers show just how powerful the UK is as a home for live music – attracting the biggest acts, drawing in millions of fans, and giving a real boost to local economies through tourism and jobs." She highlighted the government's recent £30 million Music Growth Package aimed at supporting emerging talent and protecting vital music venues.
