Key Takeaways
- Gene Simmons urged lawmakers to pass the Music Fairness Act during a Senate hearing.
- He condemned a radio loophole that denies artists royalties on AM/FM plays.
- Simmons said opposing the Music Fairness Act is un-American.
- He highlighted how past stars like Bing Crosby and Elvis suffered the same fate.
Gene Simmons, the iconic bassist for Kiss, spoke before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Intellectual Property. He argued for the Music Fairness Act. This bill would force AM/FM radio stations to pay royalties on sound recordings. Simmons called the current system unfair. He blamed a decades-old loophole for hurting generations of U.S. artists.
Why the Music Fairness Act Matters
The Music Fairness Act aims to close a gap in federal law. Today, singers and musicians earn nothing when radio plays their recordings. Yet songwriters still get paid. Therefore, many performers miss out on crucial income. Simmons called this “an injustice that has been going on for many decades.” He believes the gap must end now.
A Loophole That Lasts Decades
Since the dawn of radio, broadcasters have not paid performers for sound recordings. As a result, artists from the big band era to modern pop stars lost billions. Moreover, this loophole does not exist in most other countries. Even nations with strict governments pay artists for airplay. Simmons used this contrast to shame U.S. lawmakers.
Lessons From Music History
Simmons reminded senators how Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley never earned radio royalties for their hits. Crosby’s smooth voice shaped an era, yet he got no payments for radio spins. Likewise, Presley’s legendary records filled airwaves worldwide without a dime back. These examples highlight why the Music Fairness Act must pass.
A Call to Protect Tomorrow’s Stars
“Our children are tomorrow’s stars,” Simmons told the committee. He warned that without fair pay, new talent may not rise. Young musicians need income to invest in their art. Therefore, paying performers for radio plays can spark the next wave of hits. Simmons believes this change will strengthen American music.
Opposing the Music Fairness Act Is Un-American
Simmons delivered a sharp warning: “If you work hard and get to the top, you shouldn’t get nothing. That’s not the American way. If you are against this bill, you are un-American.” He used strong words to push lawmakers to act. His message echoed beyond rock fans to all music lovers.
Building on Past Success
This push follows the bipartisan success of the 2018 Music Modernization Act. That law updated copyright rules for streaming services. It showed Congress can work across party lines to help artists. Now, Simmons and other advocates hope lawmakers will unite again to update radio rules.
What the Music Fairness Act Would Do
If passed, the Music Fairness Act would require radio stations to pay a small royalty for each play of a sound recording. Payments would flow to performers, session musicians, and rightsholders. Unlike streaming, radio still avoids this cost. The new law would level the playing field and reward artists fairly.
Industry Pushback and Debate
Radio broadcasters argue that paying royalties hurts local stations and can raise listener costs. They say AM/FM radio already promotes artists and labels benefit from free exposure. However, supporters counter that this exposure cannot replace fair compensation. They stress that artists deserve paid airplay just like songwriters.
Why Fair Pay Matters
Music drives culture and commerce. When artists receive fair pay, they reinvest in new projects. Consequently, fans gain better music, and the economy benefits. Moreover, fair royalties help smaller acts grow. Thus, the Music Fairness Act can boost both creativity and business in the industry.
Impact on Emerging Artists
Independent musicians often struggle to afford studio time and touring. Therefore, any radio play income can be vital. By mandating royalties, the Music Fairness Act can nurture new voices. In turn, listeners will discover fresh talent on a broader scale.
Next Steps for Congress
Now, the subcommittee must draft a final version of the Music Fairness Act. Then, the full Judiciary Committee will review it. Finally, both houses of Congress must vote. If approved, the President can sign it into law. Simmons urged lawmakers not to delay this process.
Supporters and Momentum
Major music groups, artist unions, and Grammy winners back the Music Fairness Act. They have launched campaigns to educate the public and lawmakers. Meanwhile, social media buzz and fan letters increase pressure on Congress. Momentum appears to be on the side of fair play.
Looking Ahead
Passing the Music Fairness Act would correct a decades-long imbalance. It would reward both legends and newcomers every time their recordings reach listeners. As Simmons declared, fair pay for artists is simply the American way. Now, lawmakers hold the power to make history for music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Music Fairness Act?
The Music Fairness Act is proposed legislation that would require AM/FM radio stations to pay royalties to performers and rights holders for each play of a sound recording. It aims to close a gap in current copyright law.
Who supports the Music Fairness Act?
Musicians, artist unions, major record labels, and many lawmakers back the Music Fairness Act. High-profile supporters include Gene Simmons and Grammy-winning artists who believe performers deserve fair compensation.
How would the Music Fairness Act change radio royalties?
Under this act, radio stations would pay a small fee per play directly to performers and rights holders. This fee would be in addition to existing payments to songwriters and publishers, ensuring all creators earn from airplay.
When could the Music Fairness Act become law?
The timeline depends on congressional action. After subcommittee approval, the bill moves to the full Judiciary Committee, then to both houses for votes. If passed by Congress, it goes to the President for signing into law.