In a major win for the UK’s struggling live music scene, PRS for Music has officially committed to protecting the £1 voluntary contribution scheme designed to funnel investment back into the grassroots. Announcing the move at the Night Time Economy Summit 2026, the organization confirmed that these voluntary payments—received by the LIVE Trust and the Music Venue Trust (MVT)—will be excluded from its license fee calculations.
Protecting the Ecosystem
This commitment ensures that 100% of the levy collected on stadium and arena tickets goes directly to the independent venues, festivals, and artists that need it most. The initiative has already seen massive success; Sam Fender’s 2024 arena tour alone raised over £100,000, which has already been distributed to 38 independent venues. Global icons like Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, and Radiohead have also pledged their support.
Andrea Czapary Martin, CEO of PRS for Music, emphasized the long-term vision: "Grassroots venues are where songs become livelihoods. As a member-owned organization, we know a stronger grassroots circuit means more gigs, more music being performed, and ultimately more royalties flowing to writers."
A Call for Cross-Sector Unity
The announcement drew praise from Ian Murray MP, Minister for Creative Industries, who called the commitment a "fantastic initiative." Murray urged the rest of the industry to follow suit, stating, "To truly transform the sector, we need everyone on board. Real cross-sector collaboration like this is exactly what the music industry needs."
Modernizing Live Tariffs
Beyond the levy, PRS revealed it is undertaking a holistic review of its live music tariffs to modernize and streamline licensing following industry feedback. This forms part of the new ‘Livelihood’ campaign, aimed at educating artists and fostering better collaboration across the value chain.
Kirsty McShannon, Chair of the LIVE Trust, welcomed the move as a "meaningful step" that makes the initiative more workable in practice by removing unnecessary costs. By waiving these fees, PRS ensures that the foundation of the UK's £ world-famous music industry remains firm for the next generation of talent.
