Quebec Culture and Communications Minister Nathalie Roy announced on Sunday, June 20, 2021, that only made-in-Québec music will be used from now on in the buildings of Quebec government ministries and public bodies. The Québec government’s decision is designed to officially promote the use of Québec music, in harmony with its aims to increase the value of Québec culture, and promote local economic activity.
The Culture and Communications Ministry had already established a policy to play Québec music only on its communications platforms, but the government wanted to see other ministries and organizations follow suit. Besides increasing the influence of Québec music through government agencies and communications channels, the new policy is intended to help Québec music makers earn increased performance royalties.
SOCAN worked to ensure that background music suppliers used are legally licensed to play, so that copyright holders receive what they have rightfully earned for the use of their work.
“We love the idea of using regional music anywhere music is being played,” said SOCAN’s Interim CEO Jennifer Brown. “With this initiative, the Québec Culture and Communications department is supporting Québec music creators in a practical way, setting an example for all those committed to the development and good health of our music ecosystem.”
The Minister also announced that a $1,115,000 grant will be provided to ADISQ (The Quebec Recording, Concert and Video Industry Association) as part of a cultural sector economic stimulus plan, “Écoute mon album” (“Listen to My Album”).
Thanks to this financial support, 80 short TV and web videos bill be produced by ADISQ to further promote albums and EPs released during the pandemic, as well as the artists who worked on them. These videos will be watched on TV and online, starting in the Winter of 2022, thanks to major partnerships between ADISQ and a variety of broadcasters.
By supporting both initiatives, the Québec government has expressed its willingness to take part in an economic stimulus program for the music sector, and provide Québec talent with a broader platform. “Québec is a true incubator of musical artists who are finding their inspiration in our society, our roots, our land, and our dreams,” said Culture and Communications Minister Nathalie Roy. “Québec music is not only unique and rich, but Québecois people themselves listen to it, love it, and share it. I’m proud to see our government initiate practices that are going to make even more room for our music in our daily lives, thanks to its help.”