Gene Simmons Claims Musicians Are ‘Treated Worse Than Slaves’ Because Radio Doesn’t Pay Them

Gene Simmons, the iconic KISS bassist, made a powerful statement before Congress, claiming that artists are being “treated worse than slaves” as radio stations do not pay them for their music. This plea was made during a Senate subcommittee hearing on the American Music Fairness Act on December 9. The proposed act aims to ensure that artists receive fair compensation when their songs are played on the radio, a practice that is currently not standard in the music industry.

Simmons highlighted the glaring disparity in the music industry, pointing out that while songwriters do receive royalties for their work, the artists who perform these songs do not. He emphasised this injustice by recounting how legendary artists like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Elvis Presley never received payment for the millions of times their music was played on the radio. Simmons also shared a personal anecdote involving country star George Strait, who was shocked to learn that he had never been compensated for the airplay of his hit song “Amarillo by Morning.”

During his impassioned speech, Simmons urged Congress to support the American Music Fairness Act, stating, “If you are against this bill, you are un-American.” He drew attention to the significance of treating artists fairly and with respect, comparing the lack of compensation for their work to being “worse than slaves” as even slaves were provided with basic necessities like food and water. Simmons implored lawmakers to rectify this issue for the current generation of artists and those to come.

In his address to Congress, Simmons also highlighted the disparity between the United States and other countries in terms of radio royalty payments. He praised nations like Russia and China for ensuring that both songwriters and performers receive compensation for radio airplay. Simmons questioned why the U.S. lags behind these countries in supporting its artists, especially when foreign nations prioritise paying tribute to American music icons such as the “King of Rock & Roll.”

Accompanying Simmons at the subcommittee panel were industry experts, including Michael Huppe, the president and CEO of SoundExchange, and Henry Hinton, a radio station owner. While Huppe advocated for fair compensation for artists, Hinton expressed concerns about the financial implications for local broadcasters. He argued that imposing new fees could jeopardise the ability of local radio stations to support community endeavours and sustain operations effectively.

Simmons’ testimony came shortly after his recognition at the Kennedy Center Honours, where he and his KISS bandmates were honoured alongside other distinguished artists. His impassioned plea for fair treatment of musicians underscores the ongoing debate surrounding artist compensation in the digital age. As the music industry continues to evolve, the push for equitable pay for artists remains a critical issue that requires attention and legislative action to protect the rights and livelihoods of musical creators worldwide.