In the May 13, 2006 Billboard magazine, Mary Wilson originally of the Supremes, speaks of her advocacy for a national effort to promote the 'Truth in Musical Advertising Act'.The act stipulates that if no member of a performance group was a member of the original recording group then that group is prohibited from booking or performing gigs under that name.Penn. S.C.,and N.D. have already passed the ACT and Conn., Ill., and Mass. are contemplating legislation to do so also. It doesn't really deal with who owns the name, only the people performing under it.
The legislation is primarily designed to halt the obvious transgressors ( the 25 or so groups performing under the names 'Drifters, 'Platters, or the 'Coasters) and to protect the legacy of the original members, but might it have impact on the current Kingston Trio or Limeliters ( if Alex has finally retired)?. The solution may be a required disclosure on every piece of advertising and/or promotional material (even the actual tickets to the event).
My question to all. What have you heard?