AFTRA causing some to quit internet radio

Jack Stoner · Post by **Jack Stoner** » 13 Apr 2001 5:30 am

There was an article in today's St Petersburg (Fl)Times about Clear Channel Communications has ceased all internet audio streaming. They own a lot of radio stations around the country, including eight in the Tampa Bay area.

The reason given, "The shutout stems from the American Fedration of Television and Radio Artists, and entertainment union, demanding additional fees from radio stations that simulcast AFTRA recorded commercials".

I had noticed one of my favorite internet radio stations, WDAF-AM in Kansas City, Mo, had ceased streaming audio and this must be the reason.

I can see someone wanting to make sure they got whatever revenue from the commercial running, but I don't see any difference when it is simultaneously broadcast over the "free" airways and internet at the same time. If they get away with that, I see the same thing coming for any recordings (songs) that are simulcast and the end of free simulcast radio on the internet.

Donny Hinson · Post by **Donny Hinson** » 13 Apr 2001 2:29 pm

Jack, I hate to be a pessimist (I'm really quite good at it

) but if we enjoy something...and it's free...the powers that be will either eliminate it...or find a way to charge us for it.

<i>"Restrictions are the price we pay for freedom."

Jonathan Cullifer · Post by **Jonathan Cullifer** » 13 Apr 2001 5:24 pm

WSB Radio here in Atlanta almost got in the same situation. However, they poured a good sum of $ into Internet-only commercials and promos instead of the radio commercials.

Personally, I think that they are crazy to do that. What differentiates a radio user from an Internet user? Is the Internet not free advertising for these folks? I guess not.

Jonathan

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www.cullifer.com

Janice Brooks · Post by **Janice Brooks** » 13 Apr 2001 6:36 pm

I'm not sure how many are Clear channel but a buddy says a number of stations he has bookmarked are down

Jack Stoner · Post by **Jack Stoner** » 14 Apr 2001 1:53 am

I don't think it's the advertisers, they are probably happy that it's getting internet exposure too. It's the AFTRA union that represents the people that make the commercials that want extra royalties for a commerical that is "aired" on the internet, even tho it is simulcast with what is aired on "free" radio.

There was another article on the same subject and it said a small number of stations are testing S/W that will block AFTRA commercials from the internet, and will continue simulcasting. The unions help their members and work to protect them but it looks like they are biting the hand that feeds them in this case. During the AFTRA strike, many commercials were still being made but made in Canada or places other than the US. That should have sent a signal to them.