Chris Janson Receives Multi-Platinum Recognition During RIAA Event

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Pictured (L-R): RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier, Chris Janson, RIAA Chief Policy Officer Morna Willens and Musicians On Call President & CEO Pete Griffin. Photo: Dan Swartz

Chris Janson received a plaque celebrating the five-times Platinum certification of his hit “Buy Me a Boat” from the RIAA during a special presentation on Monday (Jan. 20) at the RIAA’s headquarters in Washington, DC.

RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier and Chief Policy Officer Morna Willens joined Janson at the event celebrating the Presidential Inauguration to benefit Musicians On Call. Janson has become a vocal advocate for protecting creators’ rights and his visit to the nation’s capital not only celebrated the enduring success of his first No. 1, but also offered policymakers a taste of why music and those who make it need protection from unethical uses of AI.

Chris Janson performs at RIAA. Photo: Dan Swartz

Janson performed a high-energy set during the event featuring “Fix a Drink,” “All American Guy,” “Good Vibes,” “All I Need is You” and his upcoming single “Stay Rowdy,” along with some covers and a medley of “Courtesy of the Red White and Blue” and “God Bless the USA.”

“We don’t take these moments for granted … to recognize the incredible hard work and creative talent of an artist like Chris Janson. Congratulations on the now five-times Platinum hit ‘Buy Me a Boat!’” Glazier shared. “RIAA is honored to acknowledge not only this single, but his drive to ensure that all musicians can thrive. From the ELVIS Act in Tennessee to the federal NO FAKES Act, which protect the fundamental uniqueness of a person’s voice and likeness from irresponsible AI, we are proud of Chris’s continued advocacy.”

Last March, Janson gave a fiery speech in support as Tennessee Governor Bill Lee officially signed the ELVIS Act into law. The bipartisan legislation updates the state’s existing right of publicity while establishing protections for every person’s unique voice and likeness against unauthorized artificial intelligence (AI) deepfakes and voice clones. He continues to support beyond his home state as the federal bipartisan, bicameral NO FAKES Act fuels momentum for fundamental human protections in the wake of exploitive and irresponsible AI.

“It was an awesome time in the RIAA house and a complete surprise receiving the five-times Platinum award for ‘Buy Me A Boat,'” says Janson. “I’m totally humbled and grateful. The ELVIS Act and NO FAKES Act are near to my heart and something I take very seriously. I’m proud to stand firmly behind each—helping protect artists and songwriters in a big way.”

Lorie Hollabaugh
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