Alright. Let me get my two cents in here on the subject of illegal downloading. I am sick to death of hearing from this whiny, "you owe me" generation. If you are a professional artist, then art is a product - period. The fact that you can download it for free because the internet has outpaced our ability to handle its social ramifications, does not diminish the fact that it is stealing. That's not an opinion. U.S. Copyright law says so. If you want to change the law - fine. But until then . . .
Its what I do for a living. And in turn, I employ musicians, lawyers, managers, etc. You can have my songs for free when these people stop charging for their services and moreover, when I can have whatever product you sell for free.
As a writer/performer, I have an alternate way to generate income, but if one is strictly a writer - one LIVES off of royalties. Royalties paid by CD sales, radio play, etc. I have many friends in Nashville who depend on royalties to live. Sadly some have taken second jobs or have given up writing entirely.
But even performers have suffered. Many can't afford to tour because the record companies can't afford to pay for tour support. Consequently, many talented up and coming bands will never be seen and never have a chance to grow their careers out on the road, while the mega-stars, e.g. Britney, Lady Gaga, etc. will do fine.
Having said that, I don't believe there is a way to control, not only the internet, but the digital age in general, (and for that matter - this generation of communist locusts who want consume everything for free and make capitalism a bad word). I'm generalizing of course - not all of the locusts are communists.
This concept of "free art" will take many great artists out of the market and that is truly tragic.
Now if you had a hair on your ass, you would go directly to iTunes and download one of my songs. I'm really quite funny.
Have a nice day!
