Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. From ragtime to rap, from the early phonograph to today's digital recordings, the AFM has been there for its members. And now there are more benefits available to AFM members than ever before, including a multi-million dollar pension fund, excellent contract protection, instrument and travelers insurance, work referral programs and access to licensed booking agents to keep you working.
As an AFM member, you are part of a membership of more than 80,000 musicians. Experience has proven that collective activity on behalf of individuals with similar interests is the most effective way to achieve a goal. The AFM can negotiate agreements and administer contracts, procure valuable benefits and achieve legislative goals. A single musician has no such power.
The AFM has a proud history of managing change rather than being victimized by it. We find strength in adversity, and when the going gets tough, we get creative - all on your behalf.
Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.
As we enter Black History Month, I’m filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the immeasurable contributions of Black musicians to the vibrant tapestry of American music and for the contributions and sacrifices of Black labor and civil rights leaders. But Black History Month is more than just a retrospective. It’s an opportunity for […]
Read MoreSince January 20 of this year, the relentless 24-hour news cycle drumbeat has forced me to reflect upon just what makes a nation great. I’ve read Project 2025, and it does not chart a pathway to national greatness. “A great nation is one that can feed the people.” That’s what a wise old Lakota elder […]
Read MoreThe trade relationship between the US and Canada is the largest in the world. According to statistics on Wikipedia, the goods and services traded between our two countries totalled $923 billion in 2023. US exports were $441 billion, while imports were $482 billion, for a US $41 billion trade deficit with Canada. Canada historically held […]
Read MoreAs I sit down to write my February column, wildfires in Los Angeles are still burning, Donald Trump is on the eve of commencing his second four-year term, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has resigned as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. The wildfires are certain to have a negative impact on the economy […]
Read MoreI frequently receive questions about music streaming policy and streaming platforms’ inequitable payment systems. The conversation typically begins with musicians asking whether the streaming proposals in Congress have any chance of becoming law, and of course, what actions the AFM is taking in response. There is a popular misunderstanding among many in the public that, […]
Read MoreRecently, Local 77 (Philadelphia, PA) announced an initiative to recognize the charter of former Local 274, which was founded by Black jazz musicians in 1935. The local thrived in Philadelphia until 1971, when it lost its charter for refusing to merge with Local 77. Aside from its work of ensuring all musicians are treated equally […]
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