A way to prove airplay would help is this (note just an example). If you have satellite radio find the 70's and 80's stations. Then find America Top 40 with Kasey Kasim. You will artists from many genres and artists making it into the next "decade". Now as I said DJ's had a lot to do with it as they had the ability to play music they liked and even cuts not the single. Even better in the 80's WPLJ's Scott Shannon did a mystery artist. He played this song and people called in for it all week! It was typical 80's pop. Who was it? Donny Osmond Soldier Of Love.
Now just because one MR song gets played doesn't mean this mass explosion of the style but it would do what the industry really needs....new blood and more forms exposed. This will lead to sales and tours.