In the music industry, who has seized and abused their power?

Question

i'm working on a research paper over corruption of power and i was wondering, who in the music industry (singers, ceo of record labels, etc...) has gained power and abused their power (perhaps someone who exploited other bands...) any information is appreciated. thanks.

Answer 1

Simon Cowell? Most people don't know it, but that guy has made at least half a billion dollars to date from American Idol. He exploits every single contestant on that show that he feels is worthy by forcing them to sign with his recording company (19 Ent.) when they agree to appear on American Idol.

This means that every single contestant that has ever been on American Idol and has released a solo CD has done so under 19 Ent. As you can imagine, Simon keeps most of the profits from those sales and gives the artists only a fraction of what they would be making if they were signed to another label. Simon feels that he's justified because in his eyes, those contestants would be nothing without American Idol (which he created).

Fortunately, at least one contestant slithered out of Simon's reach (Mario Vazquez). Mario quit while he was one of the finalists to win the competition so that he wouldn't be forced to sign with Simon and 19 Ent. By that time, Mario had already built up a strong fan base and had production companies sending him offers, so he made out okay.

I can't imagine what it would take for Simon to release Kelly Clarkson from her contract with him any time soon, as she has been the most successful of any of the contestants.

Answer 2

Nashville

Answer 3

Berry Gordy of Motown.