UMG, ANNENBERG PLOT RACIAL STUDY OF MUSIC BIZ

The Annenberg Inclusion Initiative and Universal Music Group are extending their partnership to provide a deeper understanding of how to create change in the music industry.

Over the next several months, the partnership will examine major and independent music companies, labels and publishers, digital platforms, radio and live concert companies as well as artists’ teams to determine the extent to which men and women of color are excluded from music’s leadership ranks. With this information in hand, Annenberg will issue a report, establishing goals and providing recommendations on how the music industry can address these disparities.

Jeff Harleston and Ethiopia Habtemariam, who Co-Chair UMG’s Task Force for Meaningful Change said, “We look forward to our continued work with the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative as we work to advance diversity and inclusion in all corners of the music business. We are committed not only to improving UMG’s performance, but also to fostering real and sustainable change across the entire music ecosystem. We know that music can do better and believe that, informed by research and data, change can be most meaningful and constructive.”

Dr. Carmen Lee, the lead researcher, said, “Beyond placing a spotlight on these discrepancies, we must illuminate how the lack of people of color in key roles thwarts inclusion throughout the industry.”