WASHINGTON STATE MUSIC CENSUS

For a state that’s given us grunge, garage rock, yacht rock, and countless indie anthems, it’s wild that Washington’s music industry has never been fully measured. Especially when you consider the massive value of Washington’s world-famous music scene, both culturally and economically. Venues across the state—from cozy clubs in Tacoma to summer festivals in the San Juan Islands—fuel the creative energy that keeps this state vibrant. But for far too long, policymakers and investors haven’t had the data to truly see it, let alone back it up with the resources it deserves.

Luckily, that’s about to change: The Washington State Music Census is officially here, and it’s the first comprehensive look at what our state’s music economy really looks like.

The Washington Nightlife & Music Association (WANMA), the Washington Department of Commerce, the City of Seattle Office of Economic Development, and King County Creative are joining forces to make music visible in ways that go beyond playlists and concert flyers. This historic survey will show just how many people make their living in music, what those jobs look like—and where the industry needs support.

Why Your Participation Matters

If you’ve ever earned a paycheck from music in Washington—whether you’re gigging on weekends, teaching kids to shred on guitar, or running a recording studio—this census needs you. Your voice, your work, and your challenges are part of the larger story of Washington music, and it’s critical to paint the full picture.

This quick, anonymous survey (it’ll take less than 15 minutes—easier than soundcheck!) will help answer big questions: Who makes up Washington’s music industry? What jobs and businesses are thriving, and which need more support? How much income is really being generated across all the creative nooks and crannies of this state?

In short, it’s a chance to show policymakers and investors that our music economy isn’t just a vibe. It’s a vital part of the state’s economy that deserves real backing.

Who Should Take The Survey?

If you work in any corner of the music industry, you should participate in the census. This includes:

• Musicians and Artists: Composers, session players, touring bands, and recording artists.

• Music Educators: Everyone from school music teachers to private instructors and summer camp organizers.

• Live Music Hosts: Venue owners, bookers, and bar/restaurant operators who keep live music alive.

• Music Business Owners: Record labels, studios, gear shops, repair pros, agencies—anyone keeping the wheels turning.

• Music Industry Professionals: Managers, agents, lawyers, marketers, designers, photographers, videographers. You know who you are.

How To Take The Survey

The survey is open now and closes January 31st, 2025. Completing it is easy, anonymous, and incredibly impactful. After you’ve hit submit, spread the word! Share the link with your bandmates, students, venue colleagues, and peers across social media. The more voices represented, the stronger the case for funding, resources, and visibility.

Why This Census Is A Game-Changer

Let’s be clear: This isn’t just a survey for survey’s sake. The insights gathered will drive action. 

Here’s what it will do:

Advocate for More Funding: Hard data gives policymakers a reason to invest in the music economy, helping musicians, businesses, and venues thrive.

Inform Policy: The numbers will help policymakers understand the industry’s needs and opportunities for growth.

Build a Sustainable Future: This census will lay the foundation for a stronger, more equitable music sector—one that works for the people making the music, not just profiting off it.

Washington Music Can’t Wait - Take the Survey today!

The Washington State Music Census is a long-overdue recognition of the creative community that drives this state. It’s a call to the drummers, the sound engineers, the music teachers, and the stage managers. To everyone who works tirelessly behind the scenes and on stage to keep music alive in Washington: this is your moment to be seen, heard, and counted.

Take the survey. Share it. And help make sure Washington music gets the love—and the investment—it deserves.