FCC Investigates iHeartRadio Over Alleged Payola Scheme Amid Industry Crackdown
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched an investigation into iHeartMedia over potential payola violations, particularly focusing on their live music events practices.
iHeartRadio headquarters building
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has formally requested information from iHeartMedia CEO Robert Pittman regarding concerns that the company may be pressuring artists to perform without compensation at events in exchange for radio airplay. The investigation specifically targets the upcoming iHeartCountry Festival, featuring artists like Brooks & Dunn, Rascal Flatts, and Thomas Rhett.
Key Points of the Investigation:
- iHeartMedia must provide details about artist compensation
- The company needs to disclose if event participation affects airplay
- Information must be submitted within 10 days
- The probe follows a February 6 FCC advisory on payola violations
iHeartMedia responded by 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 investigation extends beyond iHeartMedia, with the FCC also examining NPR and PBS for potential violations related to their on-air acknowledgment of financial sponsors.
Graceland mansion at night view
This enforcement action represents a broader crackdown on payola practices in the radio industry, following concerns raised by Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) about undisclosed compensation arrangements between broadcasters and artists.
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