Radio group seeks record label probe

The National Assn. of Broadcasters, seeking to prevent legislation requiring payment of new music royalties by radio stations, asked Congress to investigate the relationship between artists and labels.

Association President David Rehr said in a letter to Rep. Howard L. Berman (D-Valley Village) that any effort “to improve the circumstances of performers” should also look into the ties between artists and record companies. He wasn’t more specific.

Berman, who is the chairman of a House subcommittee on intellectual property, plans to propose legislation this month requiring broadcasters to pay their first-ever royalties to performers and labels for airplay.