How to Fight the CRB

Some internet radio stations say they cannot afford an increase in royalties.

In 2006, the Library of Congress created the Copyright Royalty Board, or CRB, consisting of three judges tasked to review and address issues of royalties specifically pertaining to multiple-use licenses. The CRB's recommended rate hike angered many individuals with ties to small radio stations and internet music providers, who believe the increase would effectively force them out of business, says Fred Wilhelms, a lawyer for musicians and songwriters.

Things You'll Need

• Contact information for your U.S. senators and representative

Instructions

1. Draft a letter explaining why you disagree with the CRB's rulings. Include your connection to the topic, such as if you are a musician, or an Internet music provider or aficionado. Use clear, concise language to make your points. Ask a friend to read it and provide feedback.

2. Send your letter to your senator, representative, and the CRB. You can e-mail the CRB using the contact form on the board's website (loc.gov/crb/contact/), or send a hard copy of the letter to P.O. Box 70977, Washington, D.C. 20024-0977.

3. Share your opinion in a respectful way with your friends and acquaintances, especially if they have connections to the music industry. Help those who agree to send letters as well.

4. Submit a petition to the CRB, if applicable. A list of current petitions is available at their website (loc.gov/crb/rate). If you're an artist, contact the Alliance of Artists and Recording Companies, or AARC, for information about any royalties that might be due to you, and for news and legal updates (aarcroyalties.com/2008/home.php?nav=contactgeneral).

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be discouraged if you don't see results right away - changing legislation is a long process. Stay up to date on recent developments and celebrate small successes.

• A clear and respectful tone with facts to back up your statements, whether in writing or in person, will get you much further than anger and accusations.

References

• Library of Congress; Copyright Royalty Board; Final Determination Rates
• Counter Punch; Why The New Royalty Rates Hurt Artists; Fred Wilhelms; April 10, 2007
• Library of Congress; Copyright Royalty Board; Contact
• Library of Congress; Copyright Royalty Board; Rate Proceedings
• Alliance of Artists and Recording Companies: Contact Us

Resources

• Alliance of Artists and Recording Companies
• United States Senate: Senators Home
• United States House of Representatives: Write Your Representative