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.
December 1, 2019
IM -Marty Stuart, of Local 257 (Nashville, TN), has released a special deluxe edition of his celebrated record, The Pilgrim. This 20th anniversary release is issued on double vinyl and includes a bonus CD with 10 never-before-released tracks, available only with the purchase of The Pilgrim vinyl. These newly unearthed songs include features by country music legends including Ralph Stanley, Connie Smith, Emmylou Harris, Earl Scruggs, and more.
“This recording changed the course of my musical life,” Stuart says. “Year after year, since its original release in 1999, I’ve heard stories from people all around the world about how The Pilgrim made its way into their lives and touched their hearts. Going into my archives to search out Pilgrim-related material for this release was like reaching into a dusty old treasure chest.”