The FCC has issued an enforcement advisory targeting payola practices involving free artist performances at radio stations, following concerns raised by Senator Marsha Blackburn about stations compelling artists to perform without compensation in exchange for airplay.

The advisory explicitly states that broadcast licensees and their personnel cannot demand unreported free or reduced-fee performances from musicians in exchange for favorable airplay. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr confirmed that some stations appear to be violating these regulations by forcing artists to choose between free performances and radio exposure.

Key points from the enforcement advisory:

• Radio stations must ensure individual employees aren't selling airtime perks
• Stations reporting to chart services face higher compliance standards
• Employee anti-payola affidavits alone may not satisfy "reasonable diligence" requirements
• All station events featuring artists must comply with payola regulations

The FCC has established a dedicated email ([email protected]) for reporting potential violations and will investigate substantive allegations.

Meanwhile, Congress is addressing broader radio royalty issues:

• The American Music Fairness Act has been reintroduced with bipartisan support
• The bill would require terrestrial radio stations to pay royalties for recordings
• The Local Radio Freedom Act, opposing new performance fees, has gained support from 114 representatives
• The National Association of Broadcasters backs the Local Radio Freedom Act

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