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Music lovers, pack your bags-music tourism might just be getting a major boost in the U.S. On July 31, the American Music Tourism Act passed the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation unanimously by voice vote. This crucial milestone brings the bill one step closer to its potential passage, paving the way for a significant boost to the music industry across the United States.

Introduced in April 2024 by Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO), the American Music Tourism Act, endorsed by the Recording Academy, aims to rejuvenate the music industry by directing the Department of Commerce to develop a comprehensive plan to expand music tourism nationwide. The House companion to this bill was introduced in June by Rep. Diane Harshbarger (R-TN) and Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA).

Music tourism, defined as traveling to another state or locality to visit music-related attractions like museums, studios, festivals, and concert venues, is a burgeoning industry. In 2022, it was valued at $5.5 billion and is projected to more than double by 2030. The American Music Tourism Act seeks to amend the Visit America Act of 2022 to include music tourism, addressing the declining percentage of international visitors to the United States while bolstering domestic travel.

Further, the American Music Tourism Act requires the Assistant Secretary of the Department of Commerce to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism by identifying key music tourism locations and live music events across the country and promoting travel to those places.

As the music industry and concerts continue to recover and grow post-pandemic, the American Music Tourism Act represents a significant step towards revitalizing this vital sector. By promoting music tourism, the bill not only enhances economic growth but also celebrates and preserves the rich musical heritage that defines many communities across the United States.

Senator Blackburnhighlighted the significant impact of music tourism on the economy and culture of her state: "Tennesseans know a thing or two about the positive impact that music tourism has on the economy and culture. The Volunteer State is proud to be home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to enjoy - from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol. This bipartisan legislation promotes music tourism's fast-growing industry and ensures fans from all over the world can celebrate the rich history of music for generations to come."

Senator Hickenlooperemphasized the cultural significance of music venues: "Music venues are keepers of our culture. From Red Rocks to the Grand Ole Opry, and hundreds of small venues across our country, millions visit Colorado and all our states to hear world-class musicians and connect with each other. Our bipartisan American Music Tourism Act will support these venues by helping our music tourism industry grow and expand."

Rep. Harshbargerechoed the sentiment, while noting Tennessee's deep musical roots. "From renowned entertainment attractions like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol to legendary recording studios, Tennessee is at the heart of America's music scene which attracts millions of domestic visitors and international tourists. The American Music Tourism Act ensures the many parts of our music industry remain pillars of American culture and tourism all while bolstering economic growth."

Rep. Barragánadded, "Music is the heart and soul of so many of our communities in the Los Angeles area. From iconic spots like the Hollywood Bowl and the Greek Theatre, the venues on Sunset where so many artists have been catapulted to stardom, to the many local stages in Southern California, millions travel to Los Angeles to witness live performances and experience our vibrant music scene. The bipartisan American Music Tourism Act will help grow our music tourism sector, expand cultural activities to communities across our country, and emphasize music as a critical component to American culture and economy."

The Recording Academy's Chief Advocacy Officer, Todd Dupler,expressed strong support for the bill: "The Recording Academy is pleased to support the American Music Tourism Act and applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their continued dedication to lifting up the music community. Music has long played an important role in our economy and culture. This bill will amplify the music community's contributions to economic growth and increase understanding of music's impact on the U.S. and the world."

The potential passage of the American Music Tourism Act marks a significant step towards revitalizing the music industry and strengthening the cultural and economic impact of music tourism in the United States.

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