RIATT's Recommendations re: Awesome Music, Highway Records Issue.

In light of the recent debate between Awesome music and certain radio stations, concerning payment of royalties to more than one collection agency, RIATT wishes to offer recommendations to help with this impasse. Please note both are not short term solutions.

This impasse reinforces need for legislation for local content quotas.
RIATT does not expect social responsibility from Radio Stations and DJs with respect to playing local content; legislation will assist with balancing the amounts of locally produced music and foreign music played and implementing good practices.

Secondly, it has perhaps come to the point where there is need for an independent agency responsible for:
a) The issuance of licenses. This agency will issue blanket licenses to all existing radio stations, bars etc and will be the authority to go to for all music licenses to be issued for parties etc.
b) Collection of royalties. Royalties will then be collected by this agency, to be pooled into one account and then re distributed to the appropriate collection agencies based on membership.

This now places the onus on the collection agencies to properly monitor airplay of their members to ensure they receive the correct funds for distribution. It also aids the artiste as there will be double checks by the independent agency ensuring they are paid their rightful dues.

For the radio station/ business owner it makes it a lot easier as there will still be only one fee they will pay as opposed to having to pay separate agencies.

For further information contact:
Fabien Alfonso
Email: info@riatt.org
1-868- 707-0400