In recent years, terrestrial radio has seen its fair share of challenges: competing technologies, shifting demographics, and a stuttering economy. But radio is still a vital technology that draws huge audiences and serves an essential purpose, acting as a conduit for community news and information and potentially supporting local culture and music.

With the new administration in place, panelists will discuss the status of some of the key radio-related issues facing the FCC and Congress: media ownership rules, ongoing efforts to improve localism, the expansion of low power licenses, public performance royalties, indie label market share and the effect of the 2007 payola settlement on airplay. What would radio look like in a perfect world, and how could it best serve musicians, record labels, arts organizations and the public?

Bryan Calhoun Vice President, New Media & External Affairs, SoundExchange
Parul Desai Associate Director, Media Access Project
Peter Gordon President, Thirsty Ear Recordings
Randy Hawke Operations Manager, Mid-West Family Broadcasting
Frannie Wellings Legislative Assistant, Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND)
Brian Austin Whitney Founder, Just Plain Folks
Michael Bracy Policy Director, Future of Music Coalition (moderator)

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