To respond to the unique needs of music creators due to the coronavirus pandemic, ASCAP has launched “Music Unites Us,” a resource especially for music creators: www.ascap.com/musicunitesus. Tailored to help songwriters stay healthy, creative, connected and financially stable during this uncertain time, it includes information on how to receive ASCAP royalties through direct deposit, online works registration, available financial assistance programs and access to free services from ASCAP Wellness Benefit providers such as Aaptiv, BetterHelp and Shine.
The pandemic has profoundly disrupted life for ASCAP members who depend on touring and live shows, as well as those who collaborate on music in-person. Based on research from its 2019 U.S. Music Creator Wellness Survey and anticipated effects on music creators from the COVID-19 crisis, ASCAP is working to provide more resources on the page based on real-time wants and needs, and will promote it on social media using #MusicUnitesUs. ASCAP has also joined a coalition of songwriter organizations urging Congress to provide more relief for music creators in any new stimulus packages.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
American Federation of Musicians has a resource page with information on unemployment benefits. Several local chapters have relief funds and assistance programs for their members, including AFM Local 47 (Los Angeles), AFM Local 802 (New York) and AFM Local 257 (Nashville).
- American Guild of Musical Artists is encouraging members in good standing to apply for financial assistance through the AGMA Relief Fund. Grants are awarded on a case-by-case basis, based on need.
- Bandzoogle put together a helpful article about how musicians can ask fans for support during coronavirus pandemic.
- Equal Sound (a group that “strives to introduce listeners to new music by breaking down the traditional confines of musical genres”) has set up a relief fund for musicians who have lost income due to a canceled gig as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
- The International Bluegrass Music Association is offering assistance to current and former professionals in the business of bluegrass who are in a time of need. Apply online for assistance through the Bluegrass Trust Fund.
- The Jazz Foundation provides disaster relief and direct financial support to jazz musicians in need, through its Musicians’ Emergency Fund.
- The City of Los Angeles has established a Small Business Emergency Microloan Program to strengthen small business enterprises that have been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
- MusiCares has set up a COVID-19 Relief Fund to help the music community affected by the Coronavirus pandemic. Apply for assistance online.
- The non-profit Music Health Alliance offers guidance and resources for music creators looking for healthcare. They also offer grants for medical bills not covered by health insurance.
- The Nomad Fundraiser is raising money for tour managers, roadies, merch sellers and other tour crew that lost jobs because of the coronavirus pandemic.
- Sound Royalties has set up a $20 million fund for music creators impacted by coronavirus to receive no-fee advances on their royalties. Applications are being accepted through April 16, 2020.
- Sweet Relief is taking applications for its COVID-19 Fund. The fund is intended for musicians and music industry workers affected by the coronavirus. Money raised will go towards medical expenses, lodging, clothing, food and other vital living expenses to those impacted due to sickness or loss of work.