Sad story about an old friend of mine, Artie Wayne, who was responsible for millions of record sales (and dollars) as a writer, producer, song plugger and was my old boss at A&M’s publishing company, Almo Irving, back in the 70s.
Sadder still is that he’s had two songs recorded by Michael Jackson that have been re-released a number of times and his last BMI statement was $0! A number of folks have come to his aid and are starting a class action law suit against Motown and Universal Music Group.
Moral of the story? Don’t count on anyone to have your back. Especially in the music business!
Artie is a great guy and has had an amazing life. Read the full story here: http://www.examiner.com/classic-rock-music-in-national/artie-wayne-vs-the-music-industry-can-a-nice-guy-finish-first#ixzz1bME2zPo7
How exactly did this situation happen? From my understanding, writers get paid for royalties directly through their PRO. The publisher gets paid through the PRO for publishing royalties. The record label gets paid through mechanical royalties by Harry Fox agency.
How can Artie and others file a class action lawsuit against Motown Records and Universal Music? I hope Artie gets paid for his work but I do not see how he has a case. Perhaps we will get more facts. It’s an interesting read none the less.
Art, it’s most uplifting to see your support of your friend, Artie. If enough people stand with him, and continue to share that the time is now for action in his today, great things will come. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Dawn, Artie needs all the help he can get.
A friend of mine just reminded me of this quote:
“The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There’s also a negative side.”
Hunter S. Thompson
A classic quote I have used many times!