Dua Lipa, Taylor Swift and Charli XCX Help Boost UK Music Industry to £8 Billion

The UK music industry delivered a major boost to the national economy in 2024, contributing a massive £8 billion, according to UK Music’s newly released This Is Music 2025 economic report. The figure marks a 5% increase from 2023’s £7.6 billion, driven by global tours, chart-topping albums and soaring international revenues.

Dua Lipa Leads UK Music’s Economic Surge

Pop superstar Dua Lipa was among the year’s biggest contributors. Her latest album, Radical Optimism, debuted at No. 1 on the UK charts, while her sold-out tour stops in Singapore, Japan, and Malaysia helped push UK music export revenues to a record £4.8 billion.

Global Tours From Taylor Swift & Major Acts Drive Growth

High-grossing tours by Taylor Swift, Liam Gallagher, Take That, and Bruce Springsteen also played a significant role in boosting economic output. Meanwhile, Charli XCX added to the momentum with the worldwide success of her critically acclaimed album Brat.

Streaming, Sales & Royalties Hit New Heights

Of the industry’s total £8 billion contribution:

£1.49 billion came from physical sales, downloads, and streaming

£1.02 billion was paid out in songwriting royalties — a new record

Merchandising revenue also saw a notable increase

The sector continues to be a major UK employer, supporting 220,000 jobs across the country.

Warning Signs: Growth Slowing After Post-Pandemic Surge

Despite the positive figures, UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl warned that growth is beginning to slow. After years of double-digit increases, the sector’s rise has now halved.

Kiehl cautioned:

“The levelling-off reflects the end of the post-pandemic boost and highlights deeper challenges facing the industry. Urgent action is needed to ensure future growth.”

Dua Lipa Continues Global Tour

Currently touring in Argentina, Dua Lipa shared a photo with her sister Rina at a River Plate vs. Boca Juniors match following two sold-out shows at Buenos Aires’ iconic stadium.