IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MONEY
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC
A better creative world
Young creatives around the world face a significant challenge: understanding how to manage their finances while pursuing their art. The lack of financial literacy leaves many struggling to fund their passions and build careers that last.
Bills and Beats bridges the gap between creativity and financial knowledge, offering inspiring stories, practical advice, and resources to help young artists succeed.
What do artists say?
We asked artists about their biggest financial struggles. Here’s what they told us:
“Budgeting feels impossible.”
“I want to focus on my music, not invoices.”
“No one teaches you how to make a living from your art.”
We believe the creative world can be better — and together, we can help make it happen.
The stories behind the struggles
Take a closer look at the stories of young musicians as they confront financial challenges head-on. These personal journeys reveal the delicate balance between creativity, ambition, and the need for financial stability.
The challenges for Gen Z musicians
Bills and Beats is the UK’s first documentary series addressing financial literacy for young creatives. It follows three young musicians in England as they confront the financial realities of pursuing their dreams. Over one pivotal year, they balance their passion for music with the practical need to make a living, highlighting the importance of financial literacy.
Through three half-hour films featuring candid footage, personal stories, animations, and original music, the series explores different stages of a creative career and their financial challenges.
Film 1
Tiger’s story
Torn between medicine and music, a financially anxious medical student sets herself a bold challenge: to release an album on Spotify within a year. As she navigates the pressures of balancing her studies and her artistic ambitions, she hopes the experience will help clarify her next steps.
Film 2
LUCY-ANNE’s story
A jazz songstress finds herself at a crossroads, worrying that her singular focus on live performances leaves her financial future uncertain. As a rising star, she begins to confront longer-term goals and explore financial strategies to secure her career in the ever-changing music industry.
Film 3
YOUR story
Are you aged 16-25 and working in the arts? We want to hear about the financial challenges you face and what support would help most. Have you found a community that truly supports and encourages your growth? Share your experience and help us shape the future.
Find out more.