Kiss bassist Gene Simmons spoke before a U.S. Senate subcommittee to support the American Music Fairness Act, which aims to compensate performers for radio airplay. He highlighted historical injustices faced by icons like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, who received no payments despite massive radio exposure. The bill faces opposition from some broadcasters concerned about added costs.
Event Overview
On December 9, 2025, Gene Simmons of Kiss testified at a Senate subcommittee hearing in support of the American Music Fairness Act. This proposed legislation would mandate that radio stations pay performers and recording artists royalties for playing their music, a right currently reserved only for songwriters in the U.S.
Simmons delivered a passionate address, emphasizing the inequities in the existing system. He pointed out that legendary figures such as Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Elvis Presley earned nothing from countless radio spins of their performances. 'They never got a penny for all the millions of times' their music aired, Simmons stated, underscoring the urgency for change.
Key Testimony Moments
During the hearing, Simmons shared an anecdote from the recent Kennedy Center Honors, where he informed country star George Strait that the artist had never been compensated for radio plays of his hit 'Amarillo by Morning.' Strait reportedly was unaware and confirmed it with his team.
Simmons grew emotional, declaring opponents of the bill 'un-American' and likening the treatment of artists to conditions 'worse than slaves,' noting that even enslaved people received basic provisions. He criticized the U.S. for lagging behind countries like Russia and China, which compensate both songwriters and performers, while aligning with nations such as Cuba, Iran, and North Korea in withholding performer royalties.
'How do we dare come in second to Russia?' Simmons questioned, advocating for fair treatment of American music icons who represent the nation globally.
Panel Discussion and Opposition
Joining Simmons were Michael Huppe, president and CEO of SoundExchange, who echoed support for the act, and Henry Hinton, a North Carolina radio station owner who opposed it. Hinton argued that new fees could strain local broadcasters, forcing cuts to community coverage like high school sports or staff payrolls, especially amid the recording industry's profits.
Simmons directly challenged Hinton, dismissing concerns over minimal fees—around $500 for some stations—as insignificant compared to the bill's benefits.
Broader Support
The American Music Fairness Act has garnered endorsements from artists including David Byrne, Randy Travis, Boyz II Men, and Master P, who have lobbied Congress and written in favor of performer rights.