Clear Channel and Media Control Post-9/11

Clear Channel Memorandum Post-9/11

  • The Clear Channel memorandum outlined the company's response to the events following September 11, 2001.

    • Clear Channel's CEO stated that the company was responding with a degree of hypersensitivity in the aftermath of 9/11.

    • Claimed support for freedom of speech despite suggestions for altering playlists.

    • No songs were officially banned.

    • Stations were advised to consider making changes to their playlists.

  • Criticism and Controversy:

    • Critics accused Clear Channel of censorship and suppression of music.

    • Argued that Clear Channel exercised excessive control over what was broadcast.

    • The implications of this controversy center around the power and control that a media corporation could exert over public discourse.

Telecommunications Act of 1996

  • This Act marked the first significant revision of American telecommunications law since 1934.

  • Title III of the Telecommunications Act focused on cable services.

    • Allowed for media cross-ownership, wherein a single entity may own multiple media outlets.

    • Types of media included broadcast television, cable television, radio, newspapers, and internet sites.

    • A company or individual owning at least two media outlets is deemed a participant in cross ownership.

  • Clear Channel's Media Holdings:

    • By 2001, Clear Channel Communications owned over 1,000 radio stations.

    • Additional holdings included:

    • Outdoor advertising

    • Fox News Radio

    • Over 40 local television stations.

Concerns About Media Cross Ownership

  • Major Concerns Raised About Concentration of Media Power:

    • The potential for excessive control over media outlets by a single corporation can lead to issues regarding diversity of content and viewpoint.

    • Critics contended that Clear Channel's dominance allowed it to dictate the music played on its radio stations.

  • Glenn Robinson's Perspective:

    • Former commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

    • Mentioned that while the list of suggested songs did not necessarily violate broadcasting obligations, it raised concerns about potential news manufacturing.

    • Noted a connection to the idea of limiting diversity in media content.

  • Allegations of Censorship:

    • Critics argued that Clear Channel's actions represented censorship of messages and artists.

    • The company's justification for altering playlists included respecting victims' families who might have been affected by the messages conveyed in certain songs post-September 11.

    • The act of avoiding certain songs was framed as a sensitivity measure in light of societal impact following the tragedy.