TORONTO – Six important Canadian independent record labels resigned from the Canadian Recording Industry Association last week over the organization’s submission to the CRTC’s Radio Policy Review.
"It is with regret that we have arrived at this juncture, but it has become increasingly clear over the past few months that CRIA’s position on several important music industry issues are not aligned with our best interests as independent recording artists," says the letter.
It was signed by Pegi Cecconi of Anthem Records, Donald Tarleton (Donald K Donald) of Aquarius Records, Michelle Henderson of The Children’s Group, Geoff Kulawick of Linus Entertainment, Ric Arboit of Nettwerk Records and Bernie Finkelstein of True North Records.
The letter was copied to a number of folks, including all CRTC commissioners and to Heritage Minister Bev Oda.
"Having had the opportunity to review CRIA’s filing for the CRTC’s Review of Commercial Radio Policy, we do not feel that we can remain members given CRIA’s decision to advocate solely on behalf of the four major foreign multi-national labels for restrictions to CTD funding to FACTOR, changes to the MAPL designation to benefit Canadian artists that record and co-write outside of Canada, and the so-called ‘Smart 35’ proposal on Canadian content, any of which we believe if implemented would have a material negative effect on the future growth of Canadian independent music," continues the letter.
The authors also asked that CRIA make sure to clarify with the Commission which artists it now reflects going forward.
