Pay-for-play is alive and well, even the FCC acknowledges, but that doesn't mean it's going to do much about it. On the table right now is a lame "consent decree" that both the FCC and the conglomerates (Clear Channel, Citadel, Entercom, CBS Radio) responsible for the demise of local, independent and diverse programming are set to sign: simply put, it's not enough. The agreement would apparently let broadcasters avoid admission of wrongdoing and doesn't include punishment for future payola abuses.
The Free Press has put out an action alert. Go here — http://action.freepress.net/campaign/payola2 — to sign a letter with the following statement: "I applaud the FCC for recognizing the importance of independent music and for working with the independent labels to increase its airtime. But the FCC must hold broadcasters accountable for past wrongdoing and send a strong message to stations tempted by pay-to-play arrangements in the future."
And check here for there further findings on payola: http://www.freepress.net/payola/
Also, if you work at Clear Channel, perhaps you can stop taking money to play all that stupid music. Just a thought!
Actually, I am kind of relieved to find out that these for shit radio playlists are actually paid for by the corporate beasts.
Otherwise, I would despair the state of our cultural entertainment choices.