Final answer:
Payola in the music business refers to the practice of bribing radio stations to play certain songs, often without public disclosure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word payola in the music business refers to the unethical practice of bribing radio stations or other broadcasters to play specific songs to increase their popularity and airplay, without disclosing the payment to audiences. This practice undermines the integrity of music charts and fair competition among artists. Not to be confused with legitimate forms of compensation to musicians, songwriters, or music industry lawyers, payola is illegal and has been the subject of various investigations and scandals throughout the history of the music industry.