Pandora internet radio wins nod to buy South Dakota station

Pandora Media won approval to buy a South Dakota radio station, a step toward paying lower music royalties. The purchase of KXMZ-FM in Rapid City was approved the Federal Communications Commission in a June 2 letter. Owning the station qualifies Pandora for prices enjoyed by over-the-air competitors, the company said as it announced the purchase in 2013. ASCAP asked the FCC to block Pandora's purchase, in part because it would result in lower licensing payments. The FCC in its June 2 letter said it doesn't examine business motivations for buying stations and presumes an applicant will serve its local community.