Louisiana Artists Trace Adkins, Jordan Davis and Kenny Wayne Shepherd Applaud Passage Of Sen. John Kennedy's CLASSICS Act

Press Release

Louisiana artists Trace Adkins, Jordan Davis and Kenny Wayne Shepherd applauded the passage of U.S. Sen. John Kennedy's (R-La.) legislation that fixes a loophole in federal copyright laws for sound recordings made before Feb. 15, 1972.

The Compensating Legacy Artists for their Songs, Service, and Important Contributions to Society Act, also known as the CLASSICS Act, will help close a flawed loophole that leaves some of our most cherished artists out of the federal copyright system.

Currently, federal copyright law does not adequately protect all sound recordings. This has resulted in confusion, litigation and an unfair playing field for iconic artists in Louisiana and across the U.S. The CLASSICS Act would acknowledge these artists' contributions by compensating them when digital radio services use their recordings. The act would bring federal law up to speed with the modern age of music platforms.

"Artists who made music, and performed, before February 15, 1972, continue to play a significant role in our country's culture," said Sen. Kennedy. "My generation grew up listening to these artists' work, and generations of musicians have been inspired by their talent. I am proud that the CLASSICS Act passed with broad bipartisan support. These talented musicians deserve recognition and compensation for their immeasurable contributions."

"This is a momentous day for recording artists and songwriters and makes the laws much fairer for all of us, including the classic artists who have influenced those of us working today, as well as new songwriters and artists who deserve a future. We appreciate the work of the Senators who helped get this bill passed unanimously in the Senate," said Sarepta native Trace Adkins.

"Passage of this legislation will make a real difference in the lives of songwriters and recording artists," said Shreveport native Jordan Davis. "It creates a more fair environment for music creators who have been struggling under outdated laws for the digital era. We are thankful to all of the Senators and members of Congress who have listened to our struggles over the past few years and championed our cause. The unanimous passage of this bill in the Senate shows what the unifying power of music can do!"

"As a recording artist for the last 25 years, I feel strongly that all Artists should be fairly compensated regardless of the year of their copyrights. Revenue from all digital audio transmissions should be paid to artists and not exclude those who wrote the music before 1972 that built the foundation of rock and roll," said Shreveport native Kenny Wayne Shepherd.

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