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.
July 1, 2015
Finally, Sirius XM’s two-year legal battle with the music industry has been resolved. Sirius must now pay for recordings created before 1972, and will do so to the tune of $210 million to five record companies, which is a tremendous step for the industry. Sirius will now have to pay for the songs of music’s […]
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
by Mary Beth Blakey, AFM EMSD Contract Administrator As we so frequently get caught up in the day-to-day grind of business, and the pursuit of agreements and payments for our members, it can be difficult to make time to get to know each other. With that in mind, I’ve assembled the following “Who’s Who” for […]
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
The AFM wishes to congratulate all of its members who were honored at the SOCAN Music Awards. Among those receiving SOCAN Awards were:
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
Compilations, for Electronic Media Services Division (EMSD) purposes, are programs that use excerpts from multiple outside sources such as films, TV shows, and records as a substantial part of their content.
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
In summary, and with apologies to David Letterman, the EMSD staff have compiled the Top 10 most important reasons why you should record under AFM agreements:
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
I am excited to present the first special EMSD issue of the IM as director of the Electronic Media Services Division (EMSD), which represents and protects the interests of the AFM’s great recording musicians. The of articles CDs Have Taken On a Life of Their Own and Top 10
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
In an essay published by Billboard, Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) member Melissa Etheridge shared her thoughts on the Supreme Court ruling that made gay marriage legal in all 50 states. To read more about Etheridge’s career in the International Musician article.
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
The Recording Musicians Association (RMA) is proud to help ensure retirement security, and we work tirelessly with our union to maximize employment opportunities for musicians
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
What is of consequence is the “times” we live in are moving forward at breakneck speed, with little consideration to the effect of disruptive technologies.
Read MoreJune 30, 2015
“The membership of Local 161-710 boasts so much intellect and activism, I believe the biggest source of success is the long-standing culture of advocacy and awareness here,” says Douglas Rosenthal who is Local 161-710 TEMPO Coordinator
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