Music Fans in Quebec Reject Plan For French-Language Streaming Quotas

The Digital Media Association (DiMA), which represents Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music, has commissioned a poll of Quebec citizens in response to the government’s plans to introduce Bill 109. The bill would set quotas on the “quantity or proportion” of French-language content on streaming services.

The results:

• 66% of Quebecers don’t want the government to influence which music is available on streaming services.

• That number jumps to 75% among 18-34-year-olds.

• 61% say French-language music is already easy to find on streaming services.

The survey:

• Was conducted independently by Quebec independent research firm Leger.

At risk:

• In representing its streaming clients, DiMA has previously said that the bill could reduce listener engagement with the services, which would negatively impact revenue for Quebecois artists.

• It also cast doubt on whether it would be technically possible to prioritize Quebecois recordings due to metadata issues.

What they said:

• Graham Davies, President and CEO of DiMA: “Streaming has become one of the strongest engines for Québec’s music ecosystem, helping turn piracy into prosperity, returning 70% of revenues to rightsholders and artists, and connecting Québec’s artists to millions of listeners at home and globally. This success is possible because consumers have choice, and because streaming services can invest meaningfully in supporting and showcasing Francophone and Québec talent on the world stage."

• He adds: “We believe there is a real opportunity to work with the Government of Québec to ensure that any legislative or regulatory approach continues to advance the province’s cultural objectives while protecting the experience consumers value and the model that has helped generate global success stories for Québec artists. Our members are committed to collaborating constructively so that Québec creators can continue to thrive in a system that is already delivering unparalleled reach and momentum for Quebec talent.”