Russ Feingold: “I am very troubled by these allegations. If true, they mean that artists that can't, or don't, pay these independent…”

“I am very troubled by these allegations. If true, they mean that artists that can't, or don't, pay these independent promoters will not be able to get access to the airwaves. Artists should not be required to pay for access to the airwaves. I am continuing to investigate these allegations of a new shakedown, but if they are true, this practice should be prohibited. Finally, I am deeply disturbed about concerns that have been voiced by individuals and local businesses--promoters, radio station owners, and artists--that have been forced out of the business or have been put on an unfair playing field as a result of the concentration of market power caused by the deregulation of the 1996 act. Radio is a public medium and we must ensure that it serves the public good. The concentration of ownership, both in radio and the other facets of the concert industry, has caused great harm to people and businesses that have been involved and concerned about the radio and concert industry for generations.”