NABOB opposes performance royalties

The National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters doesn’t think paying performance fees to musicians for songs played over the air has anything to do with fairness for the musicians in question – rather its purpose is “to replace lost revenues due to the decline in album sales.” The organization is standing with other broadcasters in opposing the imposition of the proposed fee.

In other news, NABOB continues to find problems with Arbitron’s PPM system, and is seeking both a congressional investigation, and has been in discussions with Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus to that end. NABOB is also supporting an FCC inquiry, along with Spanish Radio Association, the Minority Media Telecommunications Council and other organizations.

NABOB applauded the FCC’s leading role in the attempt to bring an end to “no urban dictates.”

The organization is gearing up for its 25th Annual Communications Awards Dinner will be held March 19, 2009, at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington DC. 

RBR/TVBR observation: NABOB hit the nail on the head – broadcast airplay was such considered such a boon by record companies that not only did they not request royalties, they were often inclined to bend or break the law with all sorts of consideration in order to get some spins for their latest releases. Now, after allowing their business model to deteriorate, they suddenly require replacement income, and choose to try to strongarm it from broadcasters while hiding behind a façade of musicians who will, nonetheless, probably find themselves once again bringing up the rear of the payout line, where the recording companies have traditionally kept them. Have an opinion on this article? Post your comment below.