Are You Free to Sing?

As musicians and writers we like to create freely without walking on eggshells to make sure our lyrics are politically correct. Well this wouldn’t be possible without organizations like the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The RIAA is a trade organization that supports and promotes the creative and financial vitality of major music companies (RIAA, 2011).  In addition to supporting and promoting these major music companies, “the RIAA works to protect the intellectual property and First Amendment rights of artists and music labels; conduct consumer, industry and technical research; and monitor and review state and federal laws, regulations and policies (RIAA, 2011).” 

The state and federal law that gives us our creative say is the right for freedom of speech. Which hasn’t been tampered with like it was around ten years ago. Now that the RIAA watch these laws closely the federal legislators try to be slick and redefine the ratings of what is harmful for minors.  So the RIAA works with the state legislators in all 50 states to make sure artist right to make music for the enjoyment of everyone is preserved. RIAA also works diligently to make sure those policy makers see the efforts the industry makes to provide information about the music that these minors are listening to be displayed for the parents understanding. Although RIAA takes these precautions there are still major issues that surface.  The issues that are frequently brought up are concert ratings, sales to minors, community standards, and divestiture.

 Minors are the target demographic for music because of their open mind and love for the art of sound. The RIAA understands and know this fact. The work they do is important for the music industry as a whole, from the C.E.O. of the record labels to the sound engineer in the studio.  Without the dedication that the RIAA brings forth the music we listen to would be watered down melodies with no meaning. So the next time you as a musician and songwriter go to create thank the RIAA for your freedom being protected.

Go check out other services the RIAA provides the music industry with!