When you log onto the internet and surf the web, it takes about the same amount of time to load content no matter what website you go to, but with the repeal of net neutrality, that could change and impact the music business.
"It's kind of scary that three votes on a committee can change the world because if this goes through to its full fruition, it could change the world in a very negative way," Dave Pomeroy, president of the Nashville Musicians Association, said.
The music industry has largely moved into an online world with both music streaming and music videos, and the repeal could allow internet providers to charge more to access certain sites like YouTube, Pandora, or Spotify. The providers could also make certain websites load slower, which could impact all music, but especially new artists who rely on the internet to get their music to new audiences.
"We may not all agree on everything, but almost everybody likes music and wants to support the arts, and I think this is definitely a dangerous development for people on their way up, and those people are the future of the music industry," Pomeroy said.
While all of the possibilities aren't necessarily going to happen, Pomeroy has been hoping for the best and believes the industry should prepare for the worst.
"I'm really hoping that, as a music industry, we can come together in this, and I hope that Nashville can lead the way," Pomeroy said.
No changes to music-related internet sites had been reported immediately following the news, but numerous people within the industry voiced their opposition and hesitation with the possible repeal the moment it was announced.
