Building Toward the Spring

September 1, 2026

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by Allen Fogle, International President, Recording Musicians Association and member of Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA)

This coming spring we return to the bargaining table with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) for the film and television contract, and I want you to hear directly from me about where things stand.

Reflecting on our last round, one thing is clear: the streaming residual we won didn’t happen through some clever move in a side room. It happened because so many of you showed up at home meetings, had conversations with colleagues on sessions, and packed the bargaining room at the Sherman Oaks Galleria at 3 a.m. Your participation was our leverage, and we need that same spirit again.

Here’s what’s underway. Our Steering Committee has met throughout the summer with members from across the continent helping shape our campaign. I’m glad Susan Davis, our outside counsel from last round, is back in our corner.

Right after Labor Day, we’ll send a survey to the bargaining unit, so please take a few minutes to fill it out. We will also be hosting an education summit day at Local 47 in Los Angeles, with opportunities to learn about our contracts, the structure of the AFM, and how members can help build a successful campaign. This fall we’re expanding our home meetings, reaching members both geographically and by role, including sessions focused on specific instrument families and music preparation. The Electronic Media Services Division will keep hosting “Office Hours” every first and third Thursday. They’re open to anyone, and are a great place to bring any work-related questions. As we approach negotiations, these will build into larger town halls and actions.

Start thinking now about your priorities. One I want to flag: we’re seriously pursuing a grievance and arbitration process in several of our recording contracts, which don’t currently have one. Winning good contract language means little without a real way to enforce it. The still-unpaid streaming residuals from last round are proof that there’s a gap, and closing it is a top priority this time.

Watch for the survey after Labor Day, look for a home meeting near you this fall, and reach out if you’d like to host one.

A note on the Sound Recording Labor Agreement (SRLA): These negotiations are also ongoing and we will be launching a significant campaign for that contract. Watch for separate updates on that front. Both campaigns matter, and both need your voice.

None of this works without you. Thank you for everything you do for this union and for each other.

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