Pioneering Music Policy, 2001–2007
Between 2001 and 2007, Georgetown University facilitated organized events that shaped music policy during a transformative era marked by digital innovation and industry disruption. Through annual policy summits and influential forums, the university hosted the Future of Music Coalition for key discussions on digital rights, artist compensation, and media consolidation. These efforts not only contributed to significant policy changes and industry standards, but also reinforced Georgetown’s commitment to fostering equitable practices within the global music industry.
2007 Future of Music Policy Summit
The 2007 summit focused on net neutrality and the impacts of media ownership consolidation, bringing together technology experts, policymakers, and musicians to advocate for equitable music distribution and the preservation of net neutrality. The discussions and collaborations influenced broader movements against media consolidation and for net neutrality, thus protecting diverse voices and innovation in the music industry.
2006 Future of Music Policy Summit
Held in Montreal, the 2006 Future of Music Policy Summit expanded its focus to include global challenges in the music industry. Keynote speaker David Byrne provided critical examinations of the evolving role of record companies in an era of digital disruptions. The summit fostered international dialogue and understanding of digital transformation challenges, influencing global strategies for digital preservation and fair treatment of artists.
2005 Future of Music Policy Summit
Marking its fifth anniversary, the 2005 summit reviewed the progress and shifts in music policy advocacy, highlighting the transformative role of digital technology in music creation and distribution. Contributions from Microsoft executives explored support for independent musicians. The summit produced actionable insights on digital rights and sustainable practices, influencing ongoing discussions about industry standards and the protection of artists’ rights in digital environments.
2004 Future of Music Coalition Policy Summit
The 2004 summit continued to address digital rights and artist compensation amidst the rise of online music services. Discussions revolved around the potential disruptions new technology platforms posed to traditional business models, with insights from technologists, music industry executives, and artist representatives. This event facilitated valuable networking opportunities, leading to new initiatives and technological collaborations that aimed to harness emerging platforms for artists’ benefit.
2003 Future of Music Coalition Policy Summit
The largest event series at this point in the Future of Music Coalition’s history, the 2003 Summit featured
2003 “Tell Us the Truth Tour”
The 2003 “Tell Us the Truth Tour,” featuring artists like Billy Bragg and Steve Earle, advocated for fair media and trade policies across multiple U.S. cities. This campaign significantly raised public awareness and engagement, leading to enhanced dialogue among policymakers on the need for media reform, specifically targeting the issues of consolidation and its impact on diversity in media.
2002 Future of Music Coalition Policy Summit
Highlighted by a performance from Lester Chambers, the 2002 summit focused on the legal landscape post-Napster, including copyright litigation and digital rights. Legal experts and representatives from ASCAP, BMI, NMPA, and HFA deepened the understanding of digital rights management. This year’s summit catalyzed ongoing advocacy for musicians’ rights online and fostered greater industry collaboration in tackling the challenges of digital copyright management.
2001 Coalition for the Future of Music Policy Conference
In January 2001, Georgetown University hosted the Coalition for the Future of Music Policy Conference at Gaston Hall. This landmark two-day event convened leading voices such as Senator Orrin Hatch, Napster’s Hank Barry, RIAA President Hilary Rosen, and notable musicians like Herbie Hancock, Chuck D, and Steve Albini. The conference focused on pivotal topics in the wake of digital disruptions in the music industry. Critical discussions covered the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), the Secure Digital Music Initiative (SDMI), Fair Use, Work for Hire, digital royalties, emerging business models, and the impact of telecommunications and regulation on the music industry. These deliberations imagined a future where legislative and technological environments support fair compensation and creative freedom in the developing digital landscape.