Secretary Of Commerce To Address Music Piracy

Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke

United States Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke will visit Nashville next week to hear from the music industry about the impact of rampant music piracy. Locke will conduct a Discussion Forum on Monday, Aug. 30, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM at a location near Music Row. The location will be announced later this week.

“With an estimated one of 20 songs purchased legally, we must focus on this issue,” said 5th District Congressman Jim Cooper, who is hosting the forum, along with Secretary Locke.

Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen and Nashville Mayor Karl Dean are also expected to be on hand to share their perspectives on an issue that is of such great importance to our city and state’s creative industries.

NSAI President/Grammy-nominated songwriter Steve Bogard said, “This is a rare opportunity to directly tell those in charge at the Federal level about the real-life impact of piracy on songwriters and our entire industry.”

Secretary Locke wants to hear from songwriters and other segments of the music industry about how piracy has impacted their income streams and business opportunities.

“Songwriters, we really need a strong showing at this Discussion Forum,” says NSAI Executive Director Bart Herbison. “I personally ask that you change your calendars if necessary to attend.”

More information will be forthcoming this week. To RSVP – or for specific questions – contact Debi Cochran at (615) 256-3354 or debi@nashvillesongwriters.com.