Canada’s Live Music Industry supports 100,000 jobs

A new study by the Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) reveals that Canada’s live music industry contributes C$10.92bn (€7.25bn) annually to the country’s GDP and supports over 100,000 jobs. Titled Here and Now: Understanding the Economic Power and Potential of Canada’s Live Music Industry, the report was commissioned by CLMA and led by economic analysis firm Nordicity. CLMA president Erin Benjamin (pictured) highlighted that these figures were achieved without dedicated fiscal policies aimed at industry growth. The study also found that live music events attracted 16.69 million visitors in 2023, generating C$9.9bn in tourism spending. Additionally, the industry contributed C$3.73bn in taxes and C$5.84bn in labour income through live music operations and tourism impact. CLMA board chair Tarun Nayar emphasized the broader benefits of a strong live music sector, from boosting local economies and tourism to enhancing social cohesion and mental health. The findings reinforce the importance of protecting and expanding Canada’s live music infrastructure to drive further economic and cultural growth.