Musicians and Writers Urge FCC to Protect the Open Internet

Some of the biggest names in music have joined the Writers Guild of America, East in urging the White House and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to act immediately to preserve the open Internet for the benefit of musicians and other creative entrepreneurs.

The diverse list of musicians include Jackson Browne, R.E.M. the Roots, Rosanne Cash, OK Go, Moby, Bonnie Raitt and Jamie Kitman, (manager, OK Go, They Might Be Giants, Mike Doughty and Mike Viola). Net neutrality — the principle that preserves an open Internet — lets musicians and independent labels compete in a legitimate digital music marketplace alongside the biggest companies. These musicians and writers support clear rules to preserve the Internet as a platform for creativity, commerce and free expression. "That's why we support efforts to preserve Net Neutrality for the benefit of innovation and free expression — and urge the FCC to act immediately to ensure that the Internet is kept free and open," the letter states. With the FCC set to meet tomorrow in Washington, the musicians and writers have aligned to send a message to the Commission: "The future of the Internet depends on decisions made today, as does the future of music. We believe that Net Neutrality is the best and only way to ensure that both futures remain bright."