As it stands right now, it is impossible for an independent unsigned artist or band to get their music heard on local radio stations. This petition is to ask the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) to implement some changes in the laws or rules that will allow a small and fair percentage of radio air time be allocated to help promote deserving local artists. It would benefit the public, independent artists and local music venues by increasing fans for the artists, increasing ticket sales for the local music venues and exposing the public to new entertainment opportunities in their area.

The FCC does not play a role in the type of content or programming a radio station plays over its air waves so, let it be noted that individual stations will still have control over their programming but, should have to chose some content from local unsigned artists or bands in their listening area to fill that percentage of airtime.

Its no secret that record labels pay promoters or indies to get songs played they want heard on the radio. The radio stations do get paid money to play the songs you are hearing on your local stations. Whether this is right or wrong is a different discussion but, its one of the main reasons local artists are not getting any radio exposure whatsoever. (more info)

In exchange for obtaining a valuable license to operate a broadcast station using the public airwaves, each radio and television licensee is required by law to operate its station in the “public interest, convenience and necessity.” This means that it must air programming that is responsive to the needs and problems of its local community of license.
To do so, each station licensee must affirmatively identify those needs and problems and then specifically treat those local matters that it deems to be significant in the news, public affairs, political and other programming that it airs.

It’s time to level the playing field, and give undiscovered musicians a chance to be heard by the public. If you are an independent artist or a music venue owner please sign this petition and pass it along to colleagues, other fellow musicians and artists. It will benefit you in the long run with your career in music.
There are enough independent artists and musicians to get millions of signatures on this petition. Let’s make it happen!

Sincerely,
One Starving Artist

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