NARAS P&E Wing -- Feingold's Bill: "Competition in Radio and Concert Industries Act"

[dave-G]

Just got this from my local NARAS chapter. Have a look, and if this is something you'd like to support, please call, write or email your senators, whether you're an academy member or not!

-dave

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From: Recording Academy Chairman Garth Fundis and President Neil Portnow
To: Recording Academy Florida Chapter Members

Dear Florida Chapter Member:

An important bill was introduced this session in the U.S. Senate by Senator Russell Feingold. If passed, the "Competition in Radio and Concert Industries Act," will address serious concerns including:

* ownership consolidation in the radio industry;
* the perception that payola exists and is alive and well;
* business practices by companies who own multiple interests such as concert venues and radio stations.

Throughout the country, Academy members have been telling us their concerns about radio today. Many complain that the consolidation of numerous radio stations by just a few conglomerates has caused a reduction in some formats and playlists. Others note that the independent radio promoter system may circumvent the existing payola laws, leading independent artists and venues to compete for radio promotion on an uneven playing field. All of this has created new and significant challenges to artists who seek exposure on our public airwaves.

With Senator Feingold's bill, this could all change.

Representatives of the Recording Academy in Washington, D.C. and in our chapter cities have been advocating on behalf of this bill. But we need you, our members, to weigh in if you are in support of this initiative. If so, please email your Senator (list attached), and in your own words:

* Explain your role in the music industry (musician, concert promoter, etc.);
* Describe your own concerns with radio, and particularly any encounters you have had with reduced playlists, elimination of local music programming, or pay-for-play situations;
* Ask the Senator to co-sponsor or support the Competition in Radio and Concert Industries Act of 2003.
* Send your email to our Washington, D.C., office (advocacy@grammy.com), so we can personally deliver it to your Senator.

In a recent hearing on this subject, Senators stated that they do not hear from recording artists. With the help of our nearly 20,000 Recording Academy membership, we can send a strong message to Washington on this important issue.

Sincerely,
Garth and Neil