Local Entertainers Argue Over Performance Rights

By Tankboy in Arts & Entertainment on Mar 19, 2009 7:50PM

Radio stations have been fighting with Congress over H.R. 848, the Performance Rights Act. It is a bill that would require radio stations to pay a performance royalty fee for every song played. Radio stations have paid copyright owners a licensing fee for decades through ASCAP, BMI and SESAC. The recording industry wants a new fee, payable to performers and labels.

Lead Pumpkin Smasher Billy Corgan spoke to Congress last week on behalf of performers [Ed. note: And "big media."]. Corgan argued that a law made 80 years ago for reasons long past needs to be changed.

Tom Joyner speaks today on behalf of minority broadcasters and takes an opposing view to Corgan. Joyner believes minority broadcasters are more threatened by an additional fee for playing music than the average American broadcaster.

Radio in general is threatened by this new fee.

BY: Pattie Lee

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