The Australian “radio record ban” of 1970 was one of the most unusual and influential disputes in the country’s music history. Often called the “Radio Ban” or “Record Ban”, it began in May 1970 after a major disagreement between commercial radio stations and the large record companies over payment for airplay.
At the centre of the dispute were the major labels, including EMI, Festival, CBS, RCA and Polygram, which wanted commercial radio stations to pay a fee for broadcasting their recordings. Radio broadcasters argued that they were already giving artists and record companies free publicity by playing their songs. When neither side backed down, the record companies stopped supplying new releases to commercial radio stations.
The ban lasted for about six months, from May until November 1970. During that time, many new British and Australian releases disappeared from commercial radio playlists. Interestingly, American recordings were mostly unaffected, so US music suddenly dominated Australian airwaves. Government-owned ABC Radio was not part of the dispute and continued playing the banned music.
Although the ban caused frustration for music fans and established performers, it unexpectedly created opportunities for local independent artists and labels. Melbourne record producer Ron Tudor and his Fable label became major beneficiaries. Independent companies rushed to record Australian-made cover versions of current British hits, which commercial radio stations eagerly played. Songs like In the Summertime by The Mixtures and Yellow River by Jigsaw became huge local successes.
The dispute finally ended in November 1970 when the record companies backed away from their demands and normal programming resumed. Despite the chaos, the ban helped prove that Australian artists and independent labels could compete successfully in the local music industry, leaving a lasting impact on Australian pop and rock culture.
More about Fable records here: Fable: Australia’s little record label that punched above its weight
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