NMPA / David Lowery / Chris Castle

Episode #50: Think the music industry is confusing? Here’s where things get really hairy for songwriters. The Department of Justice recently issued a statement upholding consent decrees that regulate performing rights organizations BMI and ASCAP. These decrees were originally intended as an antitrust measure, but many feel they are outdated and come with many costs. David Israelite, CEO of the NMPA, says this decision will devalue songs, implicate the property rights of songwriters and limit their creative process. We asked musician and industry critic David Lowery (Cracker, Camper Van Beethoven) and lawyer Chris Castle to help us further understand the ramifications of the DOJ’s stance.