French keyboardist/composer Jean-Michel Jarre has agreed to become European Industry Artist Spokesman, a new role. He will work closely with the music industry over the next two years to promote the interests of artists and record companies in Europe.
"European artists, and most notably those who are established, have to mobilize," Jarre tells Billboard Bulletin. "It is important at this stage for artists to fight for their future and to be present on the European scene, where many of the decisions that will be made at a European level in Brussels can affect the identity and the very existence of creators."

Jarre, who has sold more than 55 million albums worldwide in his two-decade career, will receive a special award for his "exceptional contribution to the European music industry" at the Platinum Europe Awards Dinner July 9 in Brussels. European Commission president Jacques Santer and PolyGram artist and European Parliament member Nana Mouskouri will present the honor. Eleven artists will be present in Brussels to pick up their awards, with Aqua, Pascal Obispo, and the Corrs performing live. Other participating acts are Joe Cocker, Ricky Martin, Zucchero, Nek, M-People, Robbie Williams, Eric Levy, and No Mercy.