Saturday, June 17, 2006

XM Radio needs HELP says CEO Hugh Panero

Hugh Panero, CEO of XM Satellite Radio has written a letter to all XM subscribers but it is just as important that those of you who don't have XM to read it too. The effect of the record companies pressure on Congress could have a very dramatic effect on your ability to Experience Mobility. I think you will find this letter interesting and if you agree, click on the link to contact Congress and learn more about this issue.
Dear XM Subscriber,

I'm emailing you personally because XM Satellite Radio needs your help.

The big record companies are pressuring Congress to pass legislation that would prevent XM listeners like you from having access to more music choices and new technologies. If these powerful special interests get their way, it will be much tougher for satellite radio to keep bringing you the unique and innovative artists you find on XM.

Let me explain: With 69 commercial-free digital music channels, XM provides an outlet for recording artists of virtually every musical style and genre.

XM has been a good friend to the music industry and, more importantly, to artists and songwriters. XM helps listeners discover new artists and rediscover forgotten favorites, stimulating CD and concert ticket sales.

We make sure artists and songwriters are fairly compensated for their music: XM pays a portion of your subscription fee to them and their record labels for the music you hear. Satellite radio has already paid tens of millions of dollars in royalties -- and over the coming years it could pay hundreds of millions more. By contrast, conventional AM and FM radio stations pay nothing to recording artists or their record labels.

In fact, satellite radio, including XM, is now the largest payer of digital performance royalties to artists and record labels in the country.

But the big record labels want more -- a lot more -- and are trying to use Congress to stand in the way of the future. They are pressuring Congress to pass legislation that would prevent XM listeners like you from being able to use our new radios. These radios allow XM subscribers to record music they hear on XM for personal use so you can listen later - in the same way TiVo allows you to record TV shows for later viewing.

This could mean fewer music choices and less new technology for you in years to come. Those who stand in the way of progress never prevail and they won't this time, if you and the other 6.5 million members of the XM Nation act today.

I hope you will click here to contact Congress and learn more about this issue.
(Note to Experience Mobility readers: this link may not work...it appears their server is very busy)

Thank you for being a part of the XM Nation. With your support, XM Satellite Radio will continue to bring you the highest quality music, talk, sports, news and innovation.

Best Wishes,

Hugh Panero
CEO of XM Satellite Radio


Click read more below to READ Hugh Panero's letter

No comments: