Recording artists in the United States have urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Michael Powell to grant Congress and the public an opportunity to review proposed changes of media laws before they are enacted. Under the FCC review, announced in 2002, rules which currently protect against media conglomeration in broadcast markets could be relaxed. Included in the review is the National Television Ownership Rule, which prohibits one media conglomerate from owning stations which could reach more than 35 per cent of the total audience. Also under threat is the Local Radio-Television Cross Ownership Rule, which limits media conglomerate ownership of both TV and radio stations. In a letter signed by more than 30 internationally renowned recording artists, including Tom Waits, Neil Diamond and Joan Osborne, the artists said increased consolidation of the radio industry since the 1996 Telecommunications Act had had negative impact on their ability to make a living. ‘As artists, we recognise the important role that radio and other media play in the vitality of the American culture,’ said recording artist Don Henley. ‘It is outrageous that many citizens are not even aware these changes are being debated. To a large extent, this is because the FCC leadership has not fully engaged the public.’ Recording industry representative Bernie Sanders, an advocate of continued FCC- mandated media regulation said proposed deregulation posed a threat to American culture. ‘It is not just news that will be effected by the deregulation, our culture and what music we will hear will also be drastically altered,’ he said.