I received an email this morning that asked a lot of questions about downloading music and how it affects the music industry. The questions were really good, and for that reason alone I thought I'd share them, along with my answers:
In your opinion, to what extent should music downloading and file sharing be legal, if at all?Music should be legal for download, provided there is an agreement adhered to by the owner and the downloader -- that could be a fee, or simply a login, or free shareware if the owner deems it OK. It shouldn't be a free-for-all where no one is observing the intellectual property rights of the owner.
Has music downloading/file sharing affected your annual record sales? If so, in what way?Yes, it has -- I believe in a good way. It's a cycle -- the more people who hear my music (even if it's a free download), the more my music is played, the more people hear my music... I think the file sharing creates interest, which also generates CD sales (this model wouldn't work for Britney Spears, but I'm not selling the quantity that she is).
In 1999, when Napster was founded, did you see a decline in annual record sales?There was definitely a decline in the industry, but I was working in film and TV, and didn't have my own CD's out yet...
How has music downloading/file sharing affected the record company with whom you are signed (i.e. CD prices, profit, etc.)? You'd have to ask them -- I don't think they're too fond of it. As an artist, however, it's been great to conjure up more awareness of my work.
Do you support the efforts of the RIAA? Why or why not?Yes, I do. They're looking at protecting my rights as a writer, producer, and music rights owner (publisher). Whether I embrace their current method or not (and I'm not sure what that exactly is), that's another story, but I appreciate the effort!
What percentage of your profits comes from record sales?None, and that's a fairly standard model for most artists. CD's are good for exposure -- I make income from people buying the scores and parts, and appearances/performances.
What benefits do you see from the internet with regards to your ability to make money in the music industry?It levels the playing field -- it allows the grass roots level of this industry to be able to play in the major leagues. It's great for exposure and for reaching an audience.
Some potential solutions to curbing music piracy include lawsuits against users, lawsuits against peer to peer networks, education, better copy-protection technology, easier and more accessible legal music sharing sites. What do you see as the most affective solution to curbing music piracy?Wow... man, I just try to write good tunes... probably more accessible legal music sharing sites. iTunes is a good start. The biggee record companies need to get hip to the fact that PEOPLE ARE DOWNLOADING MUSIC WHETHER THEY LIKE IT OR NOT, so they need to start catering to that market.
