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CIRPA RESPONDS TO CRTC STUDY ON EMERGING ARTISTS CIRPA Release The Canadian Independent Record Production Association (CIRPA) notes that the CRTC has released its study of New and Emerging radio play, “Emerging Canadian Artists on Commercial Radio.” Despite the fact that the various claims made by CIRPA and other bodies about N&E artist play on English commercial radio have been vindicated, we find this is cold comfort given the reality reflected in this report.
The report makes it very clear that English commercial radio did not play substantial numbers of Canadian acts, particularly in prime periods, during the study period last year. We have no reason to believe this is atypical and likely persists to this day.
In order for Canadian music to survive, it must find an audience. Small recording companies and individual artists often do not have the marketing funds to widely promote their works. Radio play can be an important part of creating a following for new acts who otherwise may go unnoticed by the public. As the sale of physical recordings declines, live performance revenues have become a more important source of earnings, and the sound recording becomes the calling card for the artist. Radio stations can be a partner in introducing new and extremely talented Canadian performers to audiences across the country by playing this music.
In our view, given the current situation in the music industry, radio has an important role to play in helping independent companies and artists succeed as we transition to new business models. Canadian companies, without the capital base of the major players, are at risk of disappearing altogether if we don't succeed in making this shift.
Given the numbers released by the CRTC on Wednesday even the broadcasters themselves must realize that they can do better, immediately, and have a responsibility to do so. Hopefully, they will not require further regulation to meet the well-documented expectation of the Canadian public that they showcase Canadian talent.
CIRPA will be issuing a formal response to this research in the upcoming months. |
