UK Music CEO Jamie Njoku-Goodwin has hailed the government’s decision to allow professional recording studios to remain open during the latest lockdown as “an important vote of confidence”.

As of today, the UK has entered a new lockdown period to last until December 2, with all non-essential retail and hospitality venues to stay closed during this time. However, professional recording studios and music video productions have been given the green light to continue doing business.

“This is extremely welcome news and an important vote of confidence by the Government in the UK music industry and our world-leading recording studios,” said Njoku-Goodwin. “I am delighted that ministers have recognised the huge amount of work that has gone into stringent measures to ensure that our studios are Covid-safe environments where work can and should continue.

“Studios are a key part of the ecosystem of the UK music industry that contributes £5.2 billion a year to the economy and employs 190,000 people.

“We are determined to continue to work with the Government to keep as much of the music industry open as possible as we strive to get the whole industry back on its feet.”

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Minister of State for Digital and Culture, Caroline Dinenage, added: “Our world renowned recording studios form the backbone of the recorded music sector, provide vital employment for musicians, engineers and producers, and make important contributions to our economy.

“As well as allowing artists to continue making albums, studios such as AIR Studios and Abbey Road produce soundtracks for blockbuster movies and our favourite TV series that have kept us entertained throughout the challenges of the pandemic.

“The Prime Minister has been clear that workplaces should stay open where people cannot work from home. This includes professional music recording studios, where work activity can continue in line with Covid-secure guidance.” 

Olga Fitzroy, executive director of the Music Producers Guild, also commented: “Many of our members are right in the middle of big productions, including one studio which is recording music for a weekly topical TV show throughout November and December.

“They were understandably concerned about the potential impact of this new lockdown. There was also the real risk that much of the brilliant work done in studios here would disappear abroad. Members will be reassured that they can stay open for business and help play their part in working towards getting the whole industry reopened.”