In the ever-evolving world of music streaming, DiMA (Digital Media Association) has made a significant move by appointing Graham Davies as its new CEO. Davies, former CEO of the Ivors Academy, a UK trade body for songwriters, is set to take the reins later this fall, complete with plans to relocate to the United States.
This appointment has stirred considerable interest, primarily because of DiMA’s recent history. Some may recall that not too long ago, DiMA was actively lobbying for lower royalty rates for songwriters in the United States.
In January 2018, songwriters celebrated a major victory when the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) ruled for a substantial increase in songwriter/publisher royalty rates, especially for streaming and other mechanical uses in the US. This ruling centred on boosting the overall percentage of streaming services’ US revenues legally payable to songwriters, elevating it from 10.5% to 15.1% over five years, marking the most significant rate increase in CRB history.
However, several companies, including Spotify, Amazon, Sirius/Pandora, and Google/Alphabet (but notably excluding Apple), subsequently launched legal appeals against these new rates, claiming they were unjustified.
During this crucial period, DiMA acted as the US trade organisation representing each of these music streaming services, advocating against the CRB’s rate decision for 2018-2022.
Fortunately, for US songwriters, the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) upheld its decision to increase headline rates paid to songwriters from on-demand streaming services in the United States for the period between 2018 and 2022, following a legal battle.
Graham Davies, in his capacity as CEO of the Ivors Academy, spearheaded the ‘Fix Streaming’ campaign in the UK and even provided evidence to the Culture, Media, and Sport Select Committee inquiry, calling for a “complete reset” of streaming.
Now, Davies finds himself transitioning from the role of a songwriter champion to that of a leader in services that were recently involved in lobbying for reduced payments to songwriters.
In a recent press release, Davies stated, “DiMA has taken a forward-leaning approach to initiatives that benefit the entire music industry, and the brightest future for music is one where key players work together.” He emphasised the importance of industry dialogue that rewards creativity while ensuring fans have legal access to music worldwide, especially in a world where streaming services have rejuvenated the music industry.
DiMA’s Board of Directors lauded Davies for his track record of constructive collaboration across diverse stakeholders in the music industry, resonating with their vision. They expressed pride in naming him DiMA’s next President & CEO, aiming to continue and expand the positive work DiMA has undertaken to champion the beneficial impact of streaming for fans, artists, and songwriters.
Why Should YOU Care?
Davies’ past advocacy for songwriters and the “Fix Streaming” campaign in the UK indicates a focus on fairness and creativity in the music industry. His leadership at DiMA, representing major streaming platforms, could shape future policies and royalties. This directly impacts your label’s artists and revenue. His commitment to collaboration and innovation aligns with the industry’s values. By championing the beneficial impact of streaming for artists and songwriters, Davies may open new opportunities for your label’s artists and enhance the music industry as a whole. Stay informed about these developments as their effects continue to reveal themselves.