Lawmaker  targets “foreign” music

Foreign music is the new target of Zulay Rodríguez Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD deputy ), who has presented a bill that requires local music programs that disseminate songs by foreign artists must put at least three songs by Panamanian artists or authors.

Like  her previous outbursts against immigrants, her latest move has ignited controversy on social networks.

If the three songs established in the law are not disseminated, they should promote interviews or conversations with Panamanian artists either live, by telephone or prerecorded. There are also new rules for the Government: it will have to manage programs on national musical rhythms in the state media, and it must also promote local artists.

The legislative initiative also proposes that every foreign artist, orchestra, DJ, symphony, band or musical group present in Panama is required to quote 10% of the value of the contract. It will be paid to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development.

It also provides that on November 22 of each year the day of Santa Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians, will be commemorated.