SACRAMENTO, CA – AB 702 received broad bipartisan support today in the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism, and Internet Media Committee.  AB 702 would make it unlawful for any person to advertise or conduct a live musical performance through the use of “false, deceptive, or misleading affiliation, connection, or association” between a live performance group and the actual recording group. 

“This legislation is about fairness all around: fairness to the consumer who thinks they’re watching someone they’re not, and fairness to the musicians who can only stand helpless as their artistic integrity is jeopardized,” said Assemblymember Portantino, a former filmmaker with an entertainment background.  “I’m extremely pleased the Committee is supportive of this important protection for everyone involved in live performances.”

Under the legislation proposed under AB 702, individuals would be prohibited from performing live musical performances under the name of a recorded group unless the performers hold a trademark, at least one member of performing members was a member of the original group, the event is advertised as a “tribute” performance or the performing group has prior authorization.

“This is a sophisticated form of identity theft,” said Jon “Bowzer” Bauman formerly of “Sha Na Na” and Chair of the Truth in Music Committee at the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.  “These imposter groups have been duping consumers and stealing the names, the remuneration and the legacy of the pioneers of Rock n’ Roll for way too long.”

Shady promoters have used the music and originality of mostly 1950s African-American musical legends without proper authorization for several decades.  These musical legends such as the Platters, the Drifters, and the Coasters, some of whom are available for performances, don’t work because imposter groups undercut their salaries and assumed their fame.  Meanwhile, consumers are being ripped off by paying for imposter group concerns when they believe they are seeing the real thing. 

Other states such as Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Michigan have enacted similar legislation, while states such as New York, Florida, and Nevada have pending legislation.

AB 702 passed by a vote of X-X.  It will soon be considered by the Assembly Appropriations Committee before it faces a vote on the Assembly Floor.

The testimony of Anthony Portantino.

The testimony of Jon “Bowzer” Bauman.