'Every Song Counts!': APRA AMCOS Head Backs Calls For More Aussie Music On Radio

APRA AMCOS is calling on radio stations across the country to play more local music as a means of supporting Australian artists amid the COVID-19 crisis.

Speaking with The Music, APRA AMCOS Chief Executive Dean Ormston said the organisation backed artists such as Kira Puru, Nicole Millar, L-FRESH The LION and more who were calling on broadcasters around the country to play more Australian music.

“Radio airplay is an important revenue source for many of our members and a vital way for their music to be heard,” Ormston told The Music.

“Increased playlisting on music streaming services and inclusion in commercial and community radio programming is critical during this tumultuous time and will directly support Australian music creators RIGHT NOW!

“It’ll mean money directly flows into the pockets of Australian songwriters and composers, and that’s good for all of us! It’s effectively the ‘Buy Local’ campaign for the Australian music industry. 

“Call on your local stations to play more great Australian music - irrespective of genre and decade of release. Every song counts!”

In 2019, radio revenue of $45.7m was around 12% of APRA AMCOS’ domestic revenue.

To put in perspective just how important radio play is for artists, the average rate per play on commercial radio is approximately $2.30 (but can vary considerably depending on the station), while the average rate per play in larger metro markets can be upwards of $8.

Shadow Minister for the Arts Tony Burke has also encouraged Australian radio stations and streaming services to support local artists more, writing directly to Spotify, Apple Music, Stan, various commercial radio stations and more last week.

For more information about how COVID-19 is impacting the music industry, follow the link here.

Kira Puru

Nicole Millar

L-FRESH The LION