Downloaders are far from criminals
I am writing in response to Tim Basilica’s column, “Death to downloading – buy a CD.” I do not consider myself a “criminal” for downloading music.
It’s no surprise that the old men who head the recording industry are filthy rich and greedy. The record labels get most of the money from album sales while the artists make their living from concert sales, merchandise, and endorsements. The RIAA is worried about their money, not the artists’.
What about the artists that aren’t represented by the industry giants? Much of the music we all know is played repeatedly on the radio but as many will agree, radio sucks. If it weren’t for the Internet, many eccentric yet talented bands that do not fit in with the norm would never have a chance.
Getting signed by a record label is incredibly tough and for many musicians, the Internet is an excellent way to get their music out. If people really like the music, they will pay to see the band when they tour.
Around the beginning of 2000, when I learned about Napster, I began downloading songs by a group named Delerium. I immediately loved the songs and went out to buy two of their CDs. This process of discovery has occurred with many different bands for my friends and I. We respect hard working musicians. If they work hard to create music that entertains us, they deserve our money.
Fast forward four years later: I have seven Delerium albums and will soon be traveling to Atlanta to see them live. My downloading of their music has definitely not hurt them. This is why I believe calling me a criminal and pirate is inaccurate. I’m sure I’m not alone.
I believe that music downloading will continue to flourish and the RIAA will have to pursue other means of increasing album sales. Give us more for our money like including extras (like DVDs). Attacking specific downloaders just adds fuel to the fire. The more they lash out, the less people will want to go out and give them money.
Brent Whitehead
Senior
General Studies