British artists form coalition to demand more power

London, Mar 12 (ANI): British artists like Robbie Williams, Blur, Roadiohaed and Pink Floyd have formed a body called 'Featured Artists Coalition' to demand more power.

Through the body the artists hope to attain a say in issues like digital deal and copyright extension.

Before the organisation's first meeting in London, Radiohead guitarist Ed O'Brien said that it is "a defining time for the industry."

"A lot of the rights and revenue streams are being carved up, and we need a voice," the BBC quoted Ed as saying.

"We need to be in there and we need to be discussing it, and I think all the major players want to hear what we have to say," Ed added.

Although Radiohead have been pioneers in the online era after deciding to sell their last album from their own website in a pay-what-you-want offer, before putting it out through a record company, the body aims at demanding a greater voice for the artists.

"The reason we can do all this, is because the internet and digital technology have changed the landscape in the music industry, which basically means people can now release their music without a middle man, without a record company," Ed said.

Singer-songwriter Kate Nash said that artists needed "a seat at this negotiating table".

"There are a lot of deals and decisions being made on our behalf that we have no say in. The digital age has changed the industry so drastically and continues to change the world so drastically," she said.

"That means there are more and more things coming up that decisions are being made on. It's our work, it's our life's commitment that is going to be affected so I think it makes perfect sense that we're there, saying this is what we think," she added.

The FAC consists of artists Blur drummer Dave Rowntree, Soul II Soul's Jazzie B, Billy Bragg, Marillion's Mark Kelly, hip-hop newcomer Master Shortie and pop star Kate Nash alongside Ed O'Brien and Robbie Williams. (ANI)