IHeartMedia settles FCC probe over artist airtime practices

iHeartMedia, the largest radio station owner in the U.S., has settled an FCC probe concerning its adherence to federal rules. The investigation focused on a specific form of payola known as showola, where stations pressure artists to perform at station-hosted music shows. To resolve the matter, iHeartMedia agreed to a consent decree and will implement new reporting measures to ensure future legal compliance with the agency's regulations regarding artist airtime practices.