Burning

Burning (downloading music) has become very popular in recent times as technology improves and more people become hooked on the convenience and available scope of music available from the Internet. The past success of Napster’s file-swapping site is a testament to this.

Up until very recently, the traditional music industry, in particular big labels, have been resistant (to put it lightly - many took things so far as to sue individual families whose teenagers downloaded music from such free sites). Much of this resistance was borne out of jealous protection of the label’s own self interest (and monopolies) more so than to protect their represented artists rights and interests. Much was due to the record industry’s failure to recognize the changing desires of its customers and unwillingness to adapt to such.

That aside, sites like Napster (prior to the lawsuits and its reformulation), while applauded by some artists and resented by others, did not really respect the rights of the musicians who make their livelihood off their musical creations. While some artists were happy for the exposure and others were proponents of the freeing the music for the fans, many were concerned - as to some degree the downloads did cut into their profits (i.e., livelihood).

What is needed is an online community based music site, which enables users to download music they want the way they want - one which levels the playing field and gives exposure to less mainstream acts while simultaneously giving fans access to more varied or obscure tracks. Such a site would free fans and artists from the limits to choice often imposed by major labels in their efforts to maintain their profit margins. All this can be done without infringing on the musicians’ rights. Artists who wish to offer their downloads for free can still elect to do so - but it should be their choice.

Recently, sites like iTunes and BurnLounge have sprung up - offering some of the best features possible, while seriously increasing exposure for artists (especially unsigned artists and those outside the mainstream). Macintosh couples the popularity of its iPod with its online site iTunes. BurnLounge offers enhanced range and scope with its community built network of individualized stores, which also serve to let fans have an impact on the success of their beloved artists while customizing their content and interacting within the BurnLounge society.

The record industry, reluctant as it was, has made forays into the online world with sites like Rhapsody and BMG online. Recognizing the inevitability of the new trend, labels now happily license music for sale on sites like iTunes and Rhapsody and BurnLounge.

However, to my knowledge, only BurnLounge shares its success and profits with its users, who help to build its network and drive its success. For that reason, I think it most closely represents the freedom music-lovers are seeking and the support artists need.

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