song economy
Music business in figures: GEMA revenues over the years
What is the state of the music industry in Germany? Which revenue areas are growing, which are declining? Where is the most revenue generated with music copyrights? Our 10-year analysis of GEMA's business figures sheds light on the economic development of the sector.
Income from music copyrights in Germany 2015-2024
The income areas in detail
Public musical performance
Record high: royalties from live and background music reach the EUR 500 million mark for the first time in 2024
Broadcasting
Moderate decline: Royalties from radio and television have been falling slightly for several years.
Online
Stabilisation: After years of strong growth, online royalties are stabilising at around EUR 300 million per year.
Physical carriers
Downward trend stopped: After years of sharp decline in the physical sound carriers segment, revenues are levelling off at around EUR 50 million per year.
Remuneration rights
One-off effects: Income from statutory remuneration rights (e.g. for private copies) has been characterised by one-off effects in recent years.
International income
World hits made in Germany: Royalties from songs by GEMA members that are played abroad have recently recorded a slight increase.
GEMA members: The 100,000 mark in sight
Last year we welcomed our 95,000th member, this year we are expected to reach the 100,000 mark. We warmly welcome all new artists and creatives!
GEMA cost rate: On the right track
The GEMA cost rate, which ist the ratio of expenses to income, has been around 15 per cent for years - and the trend is downwards. In the coming years, it is to be gradually reduced through further automation of processes.
Note: All figures are taken from the GEMA Annual Reports 2015 to 2024.