Congressman Doyle (D-PA) Proposes Government Support for Musicians
At the Music and Intellectual Property Policy Day co-sponsored by ACS and the Future of Music Coalition earlier this month, Congressman Mike Doyle (D-PA) proposed an innovative program to "encourage the creation of new and different music" by "find[ing] some way to make a career in music more viable economically."
Noting that "even small amounts of money could allow many artists to . . . build[] a fan base, spreading new music across the country and entertaining more people," he cited the NEA as offering attractive examples of similar programs. Rep. Doyle also discussed a Canadian program "to promote and develop modern music" that has "created a vibrant cultural renaissance in Montreal," as well as "a cultural center that's driving new investment and new jobs." Finally, he specifically welcomed feedback from listeners.
An excerpt of his comments appears below. Further video from Music and IP Policy Day is also available.
Written By:Jeremiah On May 15, 2007 11:55 PM Written By:Jessica On May 17, 2007 2:24 PM
That is awesome to see. Inspiring! Our culture needs more chances to survive under the oppressing weight of capitalism.
The reason there are so many "starving artists" is because most artists have no talent.
This is a difficult concept only to (a) starving artists who have no talent, and (b) people who think capitalism is somehow "oppressive."
We already have government support for musicians. There's Unemployment Insurance, AFDC (for musicians with kids), HUD loans, and many other forms of assistance already available. This is just more raw pork for special interests.
/snark