[REBOL] Re: REBster
From: ryanc::iesco-dms::com at: 10-May-2001 11:37
I think that its probably not too good for overall record sales (although I have seen
statistics that "prove" me wrong). I also think its probably not to good
for Britney Spears, NSync, or other made up "superstars". I dont believe in copyright
infringement, and I believe an artist should have the right to license
out his work like we do with software, same-same. But there is another issue here as
well. It is about the little guys versus the big guys.
The current system works like this, more or less: 1000s of small time, starving artists,
try to get noticed by record company headhunters who sign up the ones
*they* think have potential, and that are willing sign their life away. Some of these
bands may succeed to become superstars and actually become very rich.
Meanwhile the record company makes even bigger bucks just by picking who they want us
to listen to. They are really the master of puppets.
The new system thats in the process of becoming, works a bit different. Exactly how
it will work is yet to be established, but I think it will work much like
the software shareware/freeware system. 1000's of small time, starving artists, try
to get noticed by distributing thier songs on the internet as freeware or
shareware. If people like thier stuff, they might pay for it--anything more than a few
cents is more than what they are making right now. The band can also
sell promotional items and other songs or albums, appearances, etc.
Some big differences...
- The band makes all the money, not the record company.
- The little guys have a better chance of getting noticed.
- Public gets to pick who they like, not the record company.
- We removed a big leech out of the economy, the record companies!
I am all for helping expose smalltime bands to the marketplace. However, I do think
its important not to distribute unauthorized material.
--Ryan
Jamie wrote:
