Radio Is Indie Friendly Without Payola

Today, the FCC ruled that the four leading radio companies, Clear Channel, CBS Radio, Entercom and Citadel will pay the government $12.5 million for payola offenses. On top of that, the four companies will also offer 8,400 half-hour segments of free airtime to indie record labels and local artists.

Via Hits Daily Double:

The free airtime would be given to companies not owned or controlled by Sony BMG, Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group or EMI.

“It’s absolutely the most historic agreement that the independent community has had with radio,” said Thirsty Ear Recordings President Peter Gordon, who has been leading the negotiations for A2IM [American Association of Independent Music]. “Without a doubt, nothing else comes close.”

FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein commented: “I love music, and I want radio to sound fresh, dynamic and real. But payola gets in the way of authenticity because money drives the music, not its quality. Taking payola out of the system will lead to more interesting programming. I especially look forward to hearing Bayside on my local station.”

This is good news, right guys? At least now when we turn on the radio we won't be assaulted by songs like "This Is Why I'm Hot" every 5 seconds!

[Pic via salon.com]