Nearly 90% of Black artists in the UK experience systematic racism, says new survey

A March launched survey conducted by UK organisation, Black Lives in Music has revealed some scary, yet not surprising statistics related to racism and discrimination in the UK music industry. Given how similar Australian and UK cultures are, it would not be surprising to see similar figures presented here. The report surveyed 2000 people, and questions individuals whether they had witnessed, or been subject to discriminatory acts, whether income, ethnicity which led them to have barriers to progression in the music industry, both as artists and music industry personnel.

The survey provides real-life data in the wake of revelations made by artists such as Raye, Alexandra Burke, Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Beverley Knight, Sugababes’ Keisha Buchanan and Mis-Teeq’s Sabrina Washington who have all recently spoke out about the covert and overt ways race has been a hindrance to their careers.

"This is a first-of-its-kind report which holds a mirror up to the UK music industry showing what it actually looks like," says BLIM CEO Charisse Beaumont. "The report highlights racist culture and behaviours in the workplace, financial barriers and lack of investment in Black music creators, and industry professionals unable to reach their career goals."

The results are confronting to say the least. 88% of Black music professionals agree that there are barriers to progression. 63% of black music creators have experienced racism in the music industry. 43% of Black women have felt the need to change their appearance due to their race. 31% of all Black music creators believe their mental wellbeing has worsened since starting their music career, rising to 42% of Black women. The wholistic statistic that highlights the reports message is that 86% of all Black music creators agree that there are barriers to progression. This number rises to 89% for Black women and 91% for Black creators who are disabled.

You can download the full report HERE.

Words by PARRY TRITSINIOTIS

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