American Association of Independent Music to Celebrate 3rd Anniversary.

Experiences from Dragonforce and Ani DiFranco, tracks from Atmosphere, Devendra Banhart, and more added.

The Payola Education Guide briefly looks at the history of payola, the development of the "indie promoter" system, the investigations by the New York State Attorney General and the FCC from 2003-2007, the contents of the "Rules of Engagement" signed by the four largest radio companies to provide context of what it means for musicians and independent labels, and how artists are interacting with radio in the 21st century.

A2IM is releasing for the first time details of its events celebrating Independents Day, an international celebration of independent music occuring around Fourth of July weekend, 2008.

Click here for Kid Rock's interesting take on illegal downloading. 

Merlin's position is now equal to that of EMI Music and represents the largest bundle of rights outside of the four major labels.

Rich Bengloff, President of A2IM, authors the op-ed article entitled "A Fifth Voice: Indies Are Well-Positioned in Today's Business" in the June 28, 2008 issue of Billboard Magazine.

The songwriter mechanical royalty rates that were set 10 years ago covered the period through 12/31/07 with the latest rate set at $0.091 per song. The judges of the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) are in the process of holding hearings to decide what the new mechanical rates will be for 1/1/08 and beyond.

A2IM understands the concerns of the non-terrestrial broadcasting community especially the
small webcasters regarding the current issue of royalties for airplay.

There is a problem on the horizon. As part of legislation on licensing of digital delivery of musical works introduced in 2006, but not yet enacted, the Orphan Works Act would limit remedies in cases where the copyright owner cannot be located.

A2IM staff and members are working together with Future of Music Coalition ("FMC") as we continue our long battle to achieve fair treatment for Independents at traditional, commercial radio and improve overall business conditions for Independents.

Pat Berry of A2IM label member Six Degrees recently wrote an Op-Ed that was published in Billboard Magazine that stresses the importance of Independent Labels remaining vigilant about their costs and methods.