Canadian Content rules not changed to support indie artists

Canada, which uses special laws to encourage the play of domestic artists on radio on television, have recently rejected some new changes designed to encourage more independent artist play. The proposed changes would have encouraged radio and television to play independent and "emerging" artists rather than simply playing music from the handful of already well-represented Canadian superstars.

Despite having support from radio broadcasters, the Canadian Independent Recording Artists Association and record companies, the laws have not been changed, and there will be no incentives for independent artists and radio stations will likely continue to simply play Celine Dion, Avril Lavigne and other Canadian stars.

CRTC Commissioner Stuart Langford offered a harshly worded criticism for those unwilling to change the rules:

The majority has bowed to industry pressures and done nothing.

The majority has identified another problem but done nothing about it. I refer to the sad fact that though broadcasters have adhered to the letter of the law requiring 35% or more, many have openly defied the spirit underlying it. They meet the 35% level but they do so by playing just a few marquee artists over and over again.