A study released this month shows that the music industry in Fulton County is among the top 10 in the country.
Through a collaboration between Fulton County, Georgia Music Partners and Sound Diplomacy – a global expert in music industry development, the study confirms the economic impact of music in the county and what it means to the state and region.
“Fulton County’s rich musical history crosses many genres, from the first country hit ever recorded in 1923 by Fiddlin’ John Carson to today’s record-breaking hits from hip-hop artists like Lil Baby,” said Fulton County Commission Chair Robb Pitts. “Fulton County recording artists, producers, and record labels continue to be recognized across the globe, but many here at home may not realize how music contributes to the Fulton County brand.”
Sound Diplomacy has been working since the summer of 2019, mapping music-related businesses and organizations across the county and their impact. Fulton County ranks sixth in the country with registered sound recording establishments, representing some one-third of the music industry in a state ripe with musical history, from Ray Charles to the Allman Brothers to Outkast.
“The Fulton County Sound Diplomacy report clearly highlights that Fulton County is an epicenter for music production. This is not only a tremendous asset in and of itself, but an opportunity to build upon a music ecosystem that can drive job growth, innovation, and educational investment opportunities,” said Tammy Hurt, Co-Founder of Georgia Music Partners.
Hip-hop and R&B are the most popular genres in the county these days but world-renowned artists in nearly every musical genre call the area home. Music industry jobs within the county have grown by 110% since 2001, six times the rate of the economy as a whole. In addition to private studios, there are also key community and public assets including The Recording Academy, Atlanta Chapter; the Georgia Tech Center for Music Technology; the Trap Music Museum; the Georgia Music Investment Act; the Creative Industries Loan Fund, and the Creative Industries Exchange Program.
“This strategy is just the first step to accomplish more for the music industry in Fulton County. Its implementation will lay the foundation to keep and attract music businesses and talent to Fulton County year over year, making us the best place in the U.S. to start a music business,” said Pitts.
The study notes the significant disruption that Covid-19 has had on the industry, with economic hits from a lack of live performances impacting musicians and venues, besides the community itself. The study will also provide policymakers at city, county and state levels more information for future decision-making regarding economic development and arts investments.
To see the full study, click here
