I haven't discussed the topic of Intellectual Property yet, but that doesn't mean I have no thoughts on it. The times have definitely changed when it comes to this subject, and especially in the category of music. According to my friends, I am obsessed with music. I am always singing, listening to, talking about, or playing music. Since I am so obsessed with this amazing part of life, it disappoints me to see that these hardworking musicians aren't getting all that they deserve. I would say that one is considered "abnormal" if one actually pays for all of his or her music. People buying albums, and downloading every last song on iTunes just isn't even near the norm anymore. These people that participate in illegally downloading music tend to not take into account the fact that they are inhibiting the artists from reaping the full benefits. This seems strange to me, because I think you would want to support the person(s) that are producing the music you enjoy.
The majority of illegal downloads is done by teenagers and young adults, but even middle-aged adults are hopping on this free train. These parents of kids that download illegally most likely prohibited this illegality initially, but then realized everyone else did it. Since it is so common, they figure that they might as well save some money, and ask their kids to download music for them. Therefore, the population of people disrepecting artists' intellectual property is steadily increasing.
Also, covering songs from previous artists is a fad that is getting extremely common. Major bands receive permission from the band that originally sang the song, and then create their own version of that song. However, there are many artists that enjoy posting videos on Youtube or singing for small crowds. These are the people that are infringing upon artists' intellectual property, most likely without permission. Now I have no idea if the band Bon Jovi would be offended or honored if "Joe Bob" created his own version of the song "Livin' on a Prayer" and posted it on the internet. Regardless, if "Joe Bob" doesn't give credit to Bon Jovi, then this is disrespecting Bon Jovi's intellectual property. If the band name isn't mentioned, then it could lead people to believe that it is his original song, which steals the spotlight from Bon Jovi. Stop stealing others' fame!
This is really interesting, I think you should check out my blog, i'd like to see what you have to say about it. I personally am like you and buy my music from iTunes but I really don't see the problem of getting music from P2P. If it is a true artist then they are not in it for the money, they are in it for the love of music and if thats the case they wouldn't care how their fans get it as long as they do get it.
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