FCC Investigates iHeartRadio Over Alleged Payola and Artist Payment Practices
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched an investigation into iHeartMedia over potential payola violations, specifically regarding their live music events practices.
iHeartRadio headquarters building
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr issued a letter to iHeartMedia CEO Robert Pittman expressing concerns about the company potentially pressuring artists to perform without proper compensation at events, which could violate federal payola laws.
Key Points of Investigation:
- Whether iHeart is forcing musicians to choose between fair compensation and radio airplay
- Examination of the upcoming iHeartCountry Festival arrangements
- Review of artist compensation and typical performance fees
- Analysis of correlation between event participation and radio airplay
The investigation follows a February 6 FCC advisory prompted by concerns raised by Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN). iHeartMedia has been given 10 days to provide detailed information about:
- Scheduled artist appearances
- Compensation arrangements
- Standard performance fees
- Relationship between event participation and airplay decisions
iHeartMedia responded stating they "look forward to demonstrating... that performing at the iHeartCountry Festival — or declining to do so — has no bearing on our stations' airplay."
The FCC's investigation extends beyond iHeartMedia, with Chairman Carr also ordering investigations into NPR and PBS regarding their on-air acknowledgment of financial sponsors.
Graceland mansion at night view
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