UPDATE: Music icon Gene Simmons has launched a fierce attack on Congress, demanding immediate action to ensure AM/FM radio stations pay royalties to artists. During a pivotal testimony before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Intellectual Property on October 24, 2023, Simmons advocated for the American Music Fairness Act, highlighting a long-standing loophole that has denied countless musicians fair compensation for their work.
Simmons, the legendary frontman of KISS, called the current situation “an injustice that has been going on for many decades.” He emphasized that artists like Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley have suffered due to outdated laws, and he urged lawmakers to act swiftly. “Our children are tomorrow’s stars,” he stated passionately. “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.”
This urgent call to action comes as Congress faces pressure to modernize music compensation laws. Simmons’ testimony echoes past bipartisan initiatives, including the Music Modernization Act signed by former President Donald Trump in 2018, which updated copyright regulations for the digital age.
The implications of Simmons’ push are significant for thousands of artists who rely on fair compensation for their creative output. As radio plays a crucial role in promoting music, many musicians feel the current system is unfairly skewed against them. The proposed law could reshape the landscape of music royalties in the U.S., aligning it more closely with international standards.
With pressures mounting, the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee is expected to discuss the bill further in the coming weeks. Artists and advocates are watching closely as this legislation could mark a turning point for fair compensation in the music industry.
As this story develops, it highlights the ongoing struggle for artists’ rights and the urgent need for reform. Simmons’ passionate advocacy not only resonates with musicians but also raises critical questions about fairness and equity in the industry.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story.