More People Want More of iTunes’ Money

Not content to only make money when people download a song though iTunes, several groups in the music industry are seeking revenue from downloads of movies and TV shows in which their songs appear, as well as compensation for iTunes’ 30-second previews. The demands come from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI), and other performing-rights groups, and could result in further price hikes for consumers if the groups get their way. Since no one’s likely to pay these groups just because they asked, they’re taking the case to Congress, lobbying for a law that requires payment of performance fees any time a song is downloaded. Performance fees are paid when you watch a show on TV, so the groups say they’re just as entitled to the money when you buy that same show online. Fair enough, but what Congressman will to explain that to voters if iTunes video prices rise? [via CNet]