Research

The goal of FMC’s research program is to execute statistically sound research that provides musicians, policymakers, the public and the media with a clear analysis of issues at the intersection of music, law, technology, and policy. Since 2001, FMC has published research on media ownership, the effects of the 1996 Telecommunications Act on musicians and the public, payola, musicians’ opinions about changes in the digital landscape, and musicians’ access to health insurance.

Reports & Surveys

Same Old Song: New York State Edition

An Analysis of Radio Playlists in a Post FCC-Consent Decree World
By Kristin Thomson, Education Director, Future of Music Coalition
Jun 30 2009

In April 2007, the Federal Communications Commission and the nation’s four largest radio station group owners – Clear Channel, CBS Radio, Citadel and Entercom – signed a voluntary agreement as a response to collected evidence and widespread allegations about payola influencing what gets played on the radio. read more

Same Old Song

An Analysis of Radio Playlists in a Post FCC-Consent Decree World
By Kristin Thomson, Education Director, Future of Music Coalition
Apr 29 2009

In April 2007, the Federal Communications Commission and the nation’s four largest radio station group owners – Clear Channel, CBS Radio, Citadel and Entercom – signed a voluntary agreement as a response to collected evidence and widespread allegations about payola influencing what gets played on the radio. read more

More Static

Independent Labels and Commercial Airplay 18 Months After the FCC Consent Decree and the "Rules of Engagement"
By Justin Jouvenal for FMC and A2IM
Oct 20 2008
This survey of A2IM label members conducted by investigative journalist Justin Jouvenal finds that indie labels are still having difficulty getting airplay on commercial radio. The report reveals near-unanimous sentiment among label owners: little has changed over the last year and a half, with 92 percent of label respondents describing their relationship to commercial radio as “the same” as before the Consent Decree and Voluntary Agreements. read more

More Research

Fact Sheets

Confused about an issue? Start with our fact sheets.

FMC in the News

Recent press stories that mention FMC’s work

  • Future of Music Coalition's Brian Zisk: The Do's of Streaming Music
    November 17, 2010
  • End the Need for Benefit Concerts
    November 15, 2009
  • Power to the People: Legislation Backing More Low-Power FMs Clears Key Hurdle
    November 10, 2009
  • Artists need to take the HINT and get insurance coverage
    November 4, 2009
  • New Income Streams for the Digital DIY Musician
    November 3, 2009