Introduction to a New Partnership
The Songwriter of North America has introduced a new partnership with Amazon Music and Amazon One Medical. This partnership aims to bring the advantages of Amazon One Medical to their members, a remarkable step in the long-term efforts of the songwriter community to access healthcare.
The Problem of Healthcare for Songwriters
Songwriters are mostly freelancers who do not receive any benefits in the workplace, such as a healthcare system. This has been a historical problem, making it difficult for songwriters to access affordable healthcare. The new partnership will provide Sona members with a year-long Amazon One Medical subscription, a significant step towards bridging this gap.
Benefits of the Partnership
Sona and Amazon One Medical are offering a total of 300 subscriptions. These subscriptions include personal or distant appointments with a provider and free virtual care. Sona members can apply for these subscriptions, which will provide them with access to trustworthy health service providers.
Reaction from Sona and Amazon Music
Michelle Lewis, CEO of Sona, stated that the organization has committed to remedying the systemic gaps that leave songwriters without access to basic healthcare. Tom Winkler, head of publisher, songwriter, and society relations for Amazon Music, called songwriters "the heartbeat of the music industry" but added that too many of them lack access to affordable healthcare. The partnership aims to change this by supporting the health and well-being of songwriters.
Future Events and Celebrations
The announcement of the partnership comes as Amazon and Sona have organized several events in recent months, including songwriting camps in New York and Los Angeles. Sona is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and will culminate the year with its fifth annual Sona Warrior Awards this autumn. The award winners will include Chappell Roan and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
Conclusion
The partnership between Sona, Amazon Music, and Amazon One Medical is a significant step towards providing songwriters with access to affordable healthcare. With this partnership, Sona continues to demonstrate its commitment to the collective power of songwriters to create change. As Sona’s Executive Director Erin McAnall stated, "Every event, board member, partnership, and progress increases Sona’s faith in the collective power of songwriters to create changes."
