U.S. Music Industry Seeks Federal “Payola” inquiry

The recording industry from artists to major labels joined on Thursday in a rare show of unity to demand tougher laws barring what they called “payola“-like promotion of music played on the radio. They also called for a sweeping government review of radio industry consolidation. Deregulation of the radio business and rampant practices that skirt 40-year-old anti-payola laws stifle competition, drive up music promotional costs and make it harder for new artists to gain attention, the artists and record labels said in a joint statement addressed to the federal regulators and Congress.”

What a freakin’ public relations move! Click here for the full story posted at Yahoo this past Friday.

For related info:

1) ABC News coverage of this story

2) Industry Joint Statement on Current Issues in Radio (.pdf)