Billy Joel, Rihanna Fight for Compensation From Pandora
Over 100 artists, including Billy Joel and Rihanna, have taken action against Pandora in order to seek compensation this week.
The open letter to Congress has been signed by some of today's leading artists and asks lawmakers to oppose a Pandora-backed bill that they claim cuts their royalties up to 85 percent.
Pandora Media recently pushed Congress to pass the "Internet Radio Fairness Act," which would change how artists are compensated.
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"Why is the company asking Congress once again to step in and gut the royalties that thousands of musicians rely upon," the open letter argues. "That's not fair and that's not how partners work together."
Missy Elliott has also signed the open letter, which is expected to run in the music industry magazine Billboard this weekend, according to Reuters.
The issue of paying artists whose music they stream on the Internet has been a problem in the past. The advertising-supported online music company defended its request to Congress on their website.
"We are asking for our listeners' support to help end the discrimination against Internet radio," Pandora said. "It's time for Congress to stop picking winners, level the playing field and establish a technology-neutral standard."
Moreover, Pandora said that the current structure puts a "disproportionate royalty burden" on online radio providers.
Founded over a decade ago, Pandora has seen great success. The site provides users with unlimited streaming music where they can create up to 100 "stations" custom-made to their liking.
The Internet Radio Fairness Act is a bipartisan bill sponsored by U.S. representatives Jason Chaffetz, Jared Polis, and Sen. Ron Wyden.
Meanwhile, Rihanna maintains a busy schedule ahead of the launch of her new album, "Unapologetic."
The singer's highly anticipated 7th album and will include features by Chris Brown, Eminem, and more, according to MTV News. It will hit stores Nov. 19.
On Wednesday, the Barbadian 24-year-old commenced her 777 Tour- a seven-country, seven-day tour where she will travel on a 777 Boeing jet with several fans and journalists from around the world.
