BPI Takes Save 6 Music Campaign Online
April 28, 2010 - Global
By Andre Paine, London
U.K. labels body the BPI has followed its lobbying efforts to save under-threat digital radio station BBC 6 Music with a new Web site, showing British artists' support for the modern rock and alternative station.
The BBC Trust is holding a public consultation until May 25 on management proposals to close 6 Music and the Asian Network. The publicly funded broadcaster wants to re-focus its national popular music services with just national top 40 station Radio 1 and AC network Radio 2, and ensure the commercial sector is not being hindered.
However, the music industry has expressed outrage at the proposal to give 6 Music the chop and insisted that commercial radio would not emulate its playlist of breaking acts or eclectic music policy.
The Joy of 6 Web site features video messages of support from Katie Melua, Brett Anderson, Friendly Fires and Editors. Written messages of support have come in from the Courteneers, Kaiser Chiefs, the Cure, Athlete, the Ting Tings, Snow Patrol, Elbow and Duran Duran.
"Our aim is to add to the chorus of voices calling for the BBC Trust not to approve the BBC's proposal to close a wonderfully unique and eclectic station that contributes so much to British music culture and the diversity of the U.K. music industry," said BPI chairman Tony Wadsworth in a blog post.
"We've asked artists and songwriters from labels both big and small to come forward with strong messages and pleas. It's extremely encouraging to see how artists whose careers have been shaped or who are influenced by the station have stepped up to the plate, calling for 6 Music to stay on the air."
The Joy of 6 won't duplicate the campaign Web sites such as the Save 6 Music Facebook group - currently at 176,000 members - but will keep adding musicians' messages of support and update followers via Twitter.
The Web site also has a survey for listeners, which will used to help shape the music industry's response to the consultation.
Courtesy BPI
