Said Spitzer in a statement that appeared on the attorney general’s official site Monday morning in conjunction with the press conference, "Our investigation shows that contrary to listener expectations that songs are selected for airplay based on artistic merit and popularity, air time is often determined by undisclosed payments to radio stations and their employees. This agreement is a model for breaking the pervasive influence of bribes in the industry… Aggressive promotion of products is one of the hallmarks of our economy. We expect it and respect it when done creatively and legally. But the efforts outlined in the Assurance clearly crossed the line and must be curtailed.”
Spitzer’s revelations were followed immediately thereafter by a brief statement from Sony
According to the statement from Spitzer’s office, Sony
"Outright bribes to radio programmers, including expensive vacation packages, electronics and other valuable items;
"Contest giveaways for stations' listening audiences;
"Payments to radio stations to cover operational expenses;
"Retention of middlemen, known as independent promoters, as conduits for illegal payments to radio stations;
"Payments for 'spin programs,' airplay under the guise of advertising."
The entire 43-page assurance is attached to Spitzer’s online release, as are 59 pages of incriminating Sony emails and memos with names blacked out.
More from the release:
“Under the Assurance, SONY
“Spitzer said Sony
“Spitzer also noted that his office continues its broad investigation of pay-for-play practices in the recorded music industry.”
It remains to be seen where Spitzer’s shoe will drop next, or whether SBMG chief Andy Lack will take any further action in the wake of these revelations.
THE COUNT: COLDPLAY IS HOT, COUNTRY'S COOKIN' IN THE U.K.
The latest tidbits from the bustling live sector (3/28a)
SONG REVENUE:
A STYLISTIC STEW MC, divas and singer-songwriters rub elbows. (3/28a)
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THE NEW UMG
Gosh, we hope there are more press releases.
TIKTOK BANNED!
Unless the Senate manages to make this whole thing go away, that is.
THE NEW HUGE COUNTRY ACT
No, not that one.
TRUMP'S CAMPAIGN PLAYLIST
Now 100% unlicensed!
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