Declaring that the time has come to “prioritize our music”, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet announced this week that the government is hoping to make it mandatory, that 50% of the music played by local radio stations originate from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
“I’ve asked the Ministry of Creative Industries to start dialogue with the entertainers as well as the different radio stations because we would like to pass an act or a law here… for local radio stations; 50% of their music needs to come from the OECS,” Chastanet announced during an appearance on Timothy Poleon’s Newsspin program.
Chastanet is of the view that there is enough product coming out of the OECS, and musicians need to be given a platform. He pointed out that due to COVID-19, there are not many live shows but a huge market still exists for the art form. “Right now we’re encouraging our artists to learn how to copyright your music and how to use Youtube and different platforms to be able to sell their music… More people are spending time at their home because they’re working from home and we think there’s a tremendous opportunity, but it starts here where we must now prioritize our music,” he said.
Chastanet disclosed that Cabinet will be briefed on the matter and then consultation will take place.
