Musicians sound off against impostor bands

BOSTON --Rock 'n rollers on Tuesday asked lawmakers to stop performances by so-called impostor bands that perform their music but have no ties to the artists.

The Truth in Musical Advertising bill would allow the attorney general's office to stop an impostor band from performing and seek civil penalties of up to $15,000 against the bogus bands and those who promote them.

The legislation would not affect tribute bands.

At a hearing on Beacon Hill, Jon "Bowzer" Bauman, a former member of the group Sha Na Na, and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Herb Reed of The Platters said the bill would protect consumers and musicians.

"This business is so spoiled by phony groups," Reed told the Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development as he held an album by a band claiming to be his own.

According to the musicians, there are hundreds of bands touring the country claiming to be oldies groups like the Drifters, the Coasters and others from the '50s and '60s.

To be considered bona fide under the legislation, a band must include at least one member of the original recording group.

"Our goal is to protect the consumer," Bauman said. "They have no idea who they're applauding."

The Vocal Group Hall of Fame in Sharon, Pa., is working across the country to pass this type of legislation. Connecticut, Illinois and Pennsylvania already have passed laws.