Wed Feb 26 12:00:00 UTC 2025: ## FCC Investigates iHeartMedia Over Potential Payola Violations at iHeartCountry Festival
**Washington, D.C.** – The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is investigating iHeartMedia for potential payola violations related to its upcoming iHeartCountry Festival 2025. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr sent a letter to iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman demanding detailed information about artist compensation and airplay policies for the festival.
The inquiry follows a recent FCC Enforcement Advisory warning radio broadcasters against demanding free or reduced-rate performances from artists in exchange for favorable airplay. Carr’s letter requests a complete list of performers, their compensation, and standard performance fees, as well as clarification on whether festival participation influences airplay decisions. iHeartMedia must also detail its internal policies and training programs regarding sponsorship disclosures and payola compliance.
The FCC is scrutinizing whether iHeartMedia’s practices violate federal payola regulations, which carry penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and potential jail time. iHeartMedia has been given 10 days to respond to the FCC’s requests.
While some argue that payola is a largely irrelevant issue in the age of streaming music, the FCC maintains its commitment to enforcing these regulations. The investigation highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the relationship between radio airplay and artist compensation, and its implications in the evolving media landscape.
First Piper 