Gene Simmons Heads to Senate to Fight for Radio Royalties

Gene Simmons, the legendary bassist and co-lead vocalist of KISS, is set to testify before a Senate panel on December 9, 2025, advocating for legislation that would require radio broadcasters to pay artists for airplay. The hearing comes in support of the American Music Fairness Act, a bill designed to address long-standing concerns over artist compensation in the radio industry.

“Having spent my career in the music and entertainment industry, I understand the vital importance of this issue,” Simmons said. “The American Music Fairness Act represents sound public policy. Artists must be properly compensated for their creative work. I look forward to meeting with both Republican and Democratic Senators to discuss why this legislation is crucial for thousands of present and future American recording artists.”

Simmons’ participation signals a major moment for the music industry, marking the first significant legislative push on radio royalties in more than a decade. According to the musicFIRST coalition, this is the first Senate hearing on radio royalty legislation since 2009, highlighting the urgency of closing what advocates call the “radio loophole.” The bipartisan bill, S.326/H.R.861, sponsored by Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA), aims to ensure fair compensation for musicians whose work is broadcast on terrestrial radio.

The Stakes: Billions in Revenue, No Pay for Artists

The financial gap the legislation seeks to close is substantial. Radio broadcasters generated $13.6 billion in advertising revenue last year, yet artists currently receive no payment for airplay. This disparity has frustrated musicians and industry advocates for decades, fueling calls for a system that rewards artists proportionally for their creative contributions.

Simmons is not alone in his advocacy. Earlier this year, more than 300 major artists signed a letter to Congressional leaders urging swift passage of the American Music Fairness Act. Support for the bill also comes from the Recording Academy, the musicFIRST coalition, and community broadcasters, including the Alliance for Community Media, the National Federation of Community Broadcasters, and the Prometheus Radio Project.

A Historic Moment for Music and Advocacy

Simmons will testify alongside Michael Huppe, President and CEO of SoundExchange, the nonprofit responsible for collecting and distributing digital streaming royalties. Together, they plan to make the case for fair compensation and highlight the decades-long inequity in artist payment.

The hearing represents more than just legislative action; it is a symbolic moment for the music industry’s ongoing struggle to secure financial justice. Should the bill pass, it could reshape the relationship between artists and radio corporations, ensuring that performers are properly rewarded for their work. For Simmons and others who have spent their careers advocating for musicians’ rights, the American Music Fairness Act is not just policy—it is a step toward recognizing the true value of creativity in an industry long dominated by corporate interests.

As the Senate listens, the music world watches closely. The outcome could set a precedent for decades of royalties, redefine fairness in the broadcasting industry, and serve as a landmark victory for artists who have long fought to be heard—not just on the airwaves, but at the negotiating table.