New US bill would help independent artists negotiate with streaming platforms

nme.com:

Protect Working Musicians Act, which was introduced by Representative Deborah Ross of North Carolina, may allow independent musicians to negotiate with both streaming services and AI developers.As reported by Billboard, the new version of the bill will grant musicians the opportunity to discuss “fairer rates and terms for the use of their music” with the creators behind AI-generated music.

This is in addition to Rep. Ted Deutch’s original bill which aimed to give independent artists the space to “collectively bargain for royalty rates” with major streaming services without the risk of antitrust laws obstructing their actions.Many artists, both independent or major label singed, remain unprotected from streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.

Compensation to the artists from these platform tends to be unfair with independent artists having to accept the rates given without being able to collectively negotiate for better terms.Currently, independent musicians who may want to discuss higher payouts and safeguards for their work run the risk of violating antitrust laws due to them being classified as “independent contractors.” Because of this classification, they are not granted the same legal protections as workers classified as employees.Today, I introduced the Protect Working Musicians Act to allow small artists & music creators to negotiate with streaming platforms & AI developers for fair compensation.

This bill will protect NC's outstanding artists who play a vital role in our state's culture & economy. pic.twitter.com/CiQTBHtl3q— Congresswoman Deborah Ross (@RepDeborahRoss) September 19, 2023The bill’s strong emphasis on protection against AI due to viral tracks such as ‘Heart On My Sleeve’ which.