Performers and Writers Move for Net Neutrality
Many of the biggest names in music have joined with the Writers Guild of America East to urge the White House and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to act immediately to secure Net Neutrality and protect the future of music. The diverse list of musicians include; Jackson Browne, R.E.M. the Roots, Rosanne Cash, OK Go, Moby, Bonnie Raitt and Jamie Kitman, the manager of OK Go, They Might Be Giants, Mike Doughty, and Mike Viola.
The artists are joining together because of the threat of a corporate takeover of the Internet by big telecoms like Verizon and Google. Critics contend that a potential takeover could have severe adverse ramifications for the artistic and creative atmosphere that the Internet has always provided. “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,” states the letter.