A few days after the Copyright Royalty Board rejected appeals to reconsider the new per-song, per-listener fee structure that internet radio stations will have to pay record companies and artists, The Hollywood Reporter writes that webcasters are being given a chance to cut deals now. SoundExchange, the organization that collects royalties for digital audio transmissions, told THR that it has contacted some webcasters in order to get an idea of what they are willing to pay. John Simson, SoundExchange’s executive director: “We recognize that there may be certain needs and expectations, as expressed by webcasters in recent days, that might possibly be addressed through direct discussions.”

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No word on whether any agreements have been struck. The new rule goes into effect on May 15, but it’s likely to face additional legal challenges from webcasters, who have claimed that the new fee structure will force many out of business.