We are helping the Estonian streaming platform Fairmus to make the payment model of music streaming services more transparent and to create an opportunity for musicians to earn a fair fee for their work.
Fairtrade music
Founded by Tõnis Kivisild, Juko-Mart Kõlar, Kristjan Ulst, and Reigo Ahven, the company is a fair trade system of its own according to the latter – “It’s fair trade, only in music,” explains Ahven.
The idea to start a company arose at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic when concert and record sales revenues fell sharply. Until now, the existing streaming platforms were primarily international marketing channels for Estonian musicians. “Musicians made money from concerts, but the pandemic cut through that instantly. We want musicians to also receive a fair fee through Fairmus for the music they play online,” explains Ahven.
Transparent revenue base
A monthly subscription to the Fairmus streaming platform costs 2 euros and 99 cents, half of which goes to musicians. On other streaming platforms, the musician is paid by the number of songs listened to, while a song is considered to be listened to only if it has been played for at least 30 seconds. Fairmus, however, pays for the seconds listened. Participation for musicians is free.
At present, there are 2,000 pieces of Estonian music in Fairmus, but the list is updated every day. In addition to contemporary music, Fairmus provides access to the Estonian National Broadcasting Music Archive.
Our services and client team
We advise Fairmus on various legal matters, including intellectual property matters.
Our client team is led by senior associate Mirell Prosa, supported by partner Toomas Prangli, senior associate Olivia Kranich, associate Vladislav Leiri and assistant lawyer Jürgen Adamson.
