Hundreds of music festivals are being held across Indonesia throughout 2025 and 2026. Tickets are sold out in a matter of minutes. The euphoria is everywhere. But a crucial question remains: are the musicians and songwriters behind the scenes actually joining the party?
 

The live music ecosystem is currently at its absolute peak. Post pandemic, music festivals have thrived and transformed into a giant business field. However, we must ensure that the stage euphoria also flows directly to the original creators behind the hit songs.

Behind the magnificent stages and the screaming crowds, there is a strict legal obligation. Event organizers and promoters are legally required to pay Performing Rights for every single song performed on stage. This is not an option. It is the law.

Unfortunately, this is where the system often breaks down. Because of poor setlist reporting or intentional avoidance by certain promoters, this revenue often fails to reach the original songwriters. When promoters neglect to submit the setlist or pay the royalty taxes, the creators are left with nothing.

Live music is the ultimate catalyst of the industry. At Massive Music (MME), we stand firmly for absolute transparency. We constantly educate performing musicians to strictly submit their setlists. We also coordinate closely with the Collective Management Organizations to push for aggressive and transparent billing from promoters.

The success of a massive festival stage must align perfectly with the welfare of the tone creators. We demand strict setlist reporting discipline so the hard work of the creators is fully paid in cash.

What is your take on the compliance of music promoters in Indonesia when it comes to paying performing rights? Is the ecosystem fair enough for the people behind the scenes? Let us know in the comments!