Update on the Fan-led review of live and electronic music

Here is the update on the Fan-led review of live and electronic music conducted by Lord Brennan of Canton on behalf of the Culture Media and Sport Committee.

On the 19th June, with Karen Prentice of Folded Wing and Rohit Jepegnanam of Tomorrow’s Warriors and I met with Lord Brennan of Canton so that we could provide input into the Fan-led review of live and electronic music.

Karen’s submission can be seen here in UK Jazz News, and my submission is here: Briefing Fan Led Review Music Funding Transparency and Sector Equity (1991–2024)

Here is a summary of the Fan-led review of live and electronic music.

The Fan‑Led Review of Live and Electronic Music presents a comprehensive, fan‑centred examination of the UK’s live and electronic music ecosystem, highlighting its immense economic value, cultural significance and social impact. Drawing on thousands of fan testimonies, roundtables across the UK, and DIY engagement packs, the review shows that live music is central to identity, wellbeing and community life, yet fans face persistent challenges around ticketing fairness, venue sustainability, safety, accessibility, transport and representation. It identifies structural inequalities across genres — particularly jazz, folk, classical, electronic and Black music — and stresses the need for stronger local support, better funding distribution, and recognition of diverse scenes. The report proposes a Fans’ Charter built around seven essentials: celebration, fair ticketing, grassroots support, safety, accessibility, transport, and fan voice. Overall, it calls on government, industry and local authorities to treat fans as core stakeholders and to adopt policies that protect, strengthen and celebrate the UK’s live and electronic music culture. The full report can be seen here: 

Fan-led review of live and electronic music

The Government’s response to the Fan‑Led Review emphasises the cultural, social and economic importance of live and electronic music, committing to a partnership‑driven approach that strengthens the UK’s music ecosystem from grassroots venues to major festivals. It outlines actions in the new Music Plan, including improved industry data, refreshed creative careers pathways, targeted investment through the Music Growth Package, and support for local music strategies. The Government pledges stronger consumer protections in ticketing — including a forthcoming Bill to cap resale prices — and expects clearer pricing and refund transparency from industry. It supports the Agent of Change principle, new powers for local authorities to repurpose vacant buildings, and expanded community ownership tools. Overall, the response positions live and electronic music as a public good, promising sustained investment, regulatory reform, and collaboration with industry and fans to secure a thriving future for UK music.

The full response from the Government can be seen here: DCMS Fan Led Review Of Live And Electronic Music Government Response

The consultation on the Review of Jazz in England March 2025 will soon be coming to a close and further news on the date will be provided later. However, the Fan-led review of live and electronic music will be the first topic for a national planning meeting.