Legendary musician Gene Simmons testified before a Senate Judiciary subcommittee today, expressing strong criticism regarding the treatment of musicians by terrestrial radio.

“Let’s call it for what it is — an injustice that has been going on for decades,” the bassist stated, referring to the lack of compensation for artists when their music is played on the airwaves. “When you work hard and you get to the top, what do you got? Zipperooney. That’s not the American way.”

While songwriters receive compensation for their material being played, performers do not. The long-standing argument from the radio industry has been that the promotional benefits of airplay serve as adequate payment for artists; however, as satellite and streaming companies have begun to provide royalties for performers, pressure has increased on terrestrial radio to follow suit.

Gene Simmons Criticizes Radio ‘Injustice’

Simmons’ appearance in Washington, D.C. was in support of the Music Fairness Act, which would mandate radio stations to license artists’ songs for airplay.

“If you are against this bill, you are un-American. You cannot let this injustice continue,” the Kiss rocker asserted. “It may seem like a small issue. There are wars going on and everything. But our emissaries to the world are Elvis and Frank Sinatra, and when they find out that we are not treating our stars right — in other words, worse than slaves. Slaves get food and water. Elvis, Bing Crosby and Sinatra got nothing for their performance. We must change this now for our children and our children’s children.”

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This isn’t the first time new legislation has been proposed to address this issue. For decades, artists have sought a way to receive compensation from radio airplay. Conversely, opponents of the Music Fairness Act argue that it will drive radio stations out of business. The industry has struggled to stay relevant amid the rise of satellite, streaming, and other on-demand listening options. Nonetheless, Simmons believes the issue is clear.

“This is an archaic injustice that’s been around for a long time, and there’s no reason why we shouldn’t get involved,” the bassist urged while encouraging members of both parties to support the bill.