In an effort to strengthen America’s music tourism sector, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Marsha Blackburn introduced the bipartisan American Music Tourism Act this week. Aimed to support and expand the number of tourists who seek to travel to see their favorite performers live, the bill would require the Department of Commerce to implement comprehensive measures to attract more domestic and foreign tourists to music venues across the United States. The government is requesting the government to formulate a comprehensive plan.
“Music venues are stewards of our cultural heritage,” Sen. Hickenlooper said when announcing the bill. “From the iconic Red Rocks to the historic Grand Ole Opry to countless smaller venues across the country, people flock to our state to enjoy world-class music and connect with each other. Our Bill will support these venues by fostering growth in the music tourism sector.”
Senator Blackburn emphasized the significant cultural and economic impact of music tourism, especially in his home state of Tennessee. “From Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville and beyond, Tennessee is home to numerous musical landmarks. music lovers will enjoy and celebrate our rich musical heritage for years to come.”
The proposed bill would require the Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism to develop and implement a strategy to enhance music tourism nationwide. Additionally, it requires detailed reports to Congress outlining the progress and results of these promotional activities.
The American Music and Tourism Act has support from a wide range of stakeholders, including Live Nation Entertainment, Colorado Creative Industries, Denver Arts & Venues, the Recording Academy, and other prominent organizations in the music industry.
Josh Blanchard, director of Colorado Creative Industries, emphasized the important role of music in enhancing the state’s economic and cultural landscape. “The music industry is critical to the thriving creative economy and overall well-being of Colorado. This legislation will encourage investment in our music scene and support not only musicians, but our musical culture. It will also support the venues and promoters who bring it to life.”
Gretchen Holler, executive director of Denver Arts & Venues, is also a supporter: Expanding this area is certainly a worthwhile endeavor. ”
Todd Dupler, chief advocacy and public policy officer at the Recording Academy, praised the senators’ dedication. “This bill expands the economic and cultural contributions of the music community and deepens our understanding of the impact of music both nationally and globally.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mitch Glazier, president and CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America, praised the law’s potential to enrich the experience of music fans across the country. “From the historic Grand Ole Opry to the legendary Telluride Bluegrass Festival, this activity allows more visitors to experience the vibrant heritage of American music firsthand.”
Stephen Parker, executive director of the National Independent Venue Association, highlighted the broader economic benefits. “Independent stages attract investment and tourism, benefiting not only the artists but also the businesses around them. This law recognizes music tourism as a major economic driver and makes its growth a national priority. Masu.”
The American Music Tourism Act is touted by supporters as a significant step forward in recognizing and supporting the music industry’s role in the U.S. economy. Music tourism is predicted to generate more than $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032, and officials are optimistic about the sector’s potential for continued growth and innovation.
