Don't Know What To Say About This...

[Frank Giaramita]

"Hi, my name is Amy Latten and I recently found out that I'm being sued by the RIAA for uploading music files through a university file-sharing network called i2hub. I was selected at random by the RIAA, out of all the IPs that were given from my school to the RIAA. 25 were selected from my school at random. I know that some people have compassion in their hearts, and have downloaded gigs upon gigs of music in their lives. I'm basically a martyr for many college kids around the country and world. There are only a few of us who were selected at random and being punished. Basically, I'm asking for donations, or asking that people help me out and put my link in your profiles. I really need all the help I can get. I'm a second year architecture student at RPI, and going broke very fast. I cannot afford this alone, and my parents are not willing to help me out. I'm doing this alone. I would take donations anywhere from a cent to...whatever you feel you can donate. I need to fundraise and earn my money through my 2 jobs by August 11, 2005, because of the agreement I have settled with the RIAA. I had 90 days from the day of settlement. I beg you to please help me out, my life has been turned upside down. I can't concentrate, and wake up worried. Please find it in your heart to help out."

Submitted by: Amy Latten, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

[ShmimShmim]

sucks for you.

[Nate_RAWKS]

That sucks... RIAA got you good this time. I wonder how much they're suing her for.

[As Derrick Rust]

HAHAH You stupid bitch. Stop downloading music. Problem solved.

[spokenrope]

put what link in their profiles?

[Comandante]

HAHAH You stupid bitch. Stop downloading music. Problem solved.

That's the epitome of compassion.

[UrOwNdISaStR180]

They'll never catch me

[ParadigM]

No. Stop SHARING music. Problem solved.

[CsManiac]

Its legal to download. You just cant upload/share...that is illegal.

[DaysAway808]

send me money too while you are at it. I swear its for the same reason. ;)

[Armorforsleep05]

how much is she being sued for?

[Bikeage]

HAHAH You stupid bitch. Stop downloading music. Problem solved.

haha suck my dick.... DOWNLOAD FOR LIFE

[djUbilla]

Ridiculous.

[Jason Tate]

You do know that labels check this website, and if they see you saying you're downloading their music - it really is simply a call to a lawyer and they'll have your contact information.

Problem solved: buy everything you download.

[inST0RESNOW]

It's somewhat funny to just sit and read the ignorance poured out through most of your fingertips.

[Nate_RAWKS]

Problem solved: buy everything you download.


Yep.

[XpunkXroutineX]

Down with the RIAA, Up with pirating!

[intoyourarms]

You do know that labels check this website, and if they see you saying you're downloading their music - it really is simply a call to a lawyer and they'll have your contact information.

Problem solved: buy everything you download.
like any label is going to waste their legal fees on that shit. maybe a major yeah but no one else would even second glance.

[seans seatbelt]

I'm Canadian.

[LTJ182]

HAHAH You stupid bitch. Stop downloading music. Problem solved.


says the kid who probably hunted the internet for the new fallout boy record

[Sureshot182]

No. Stop SHARING music. Problem solved.

exactly

[Newairrecords]

I'm basically a martyr for many college kids around the country and world.[/I]

a martyr wouldn't get people to die for them.

[Nate_RAWKS]

I'm Canadian.


Yeah and it's going to change soon enough for us as well.

[Jason Tate]

like any label is going to waste their legal fees on that shit. maybe a major yeah but no one else would even second glance.
Wanna bet?

[mediocrgreenday]

Its legal to download. You just cant upload/share...that is illegal.

its still illegal to download, its just the uploading/sharing that will get you caught.

[Craftsy21]

Wanna bet?

yes! ;)

[TiMe tO wAsTe]

hahahahahahaha stupid bitch

[SomethingBrian]

Since everyone knows that the RIAA has been out for people for more than 2 years, I have no sympathy for her. Especially, with all the legal sites you can get music from instead of screwing the artist that barely receives any royalties for their hard work.

Too bad!!! Suck it up. No one forced you or asked you to download or share music. You are no martyr to me.

:headshake

[RockVocalPower]

I'm in a band and we're about to put out an EP, and if people want to buy it and support us then they can. If not, they can download all the songs off our site. It's all about people hearing the music.

The Starting Line took the high road once their album got leaked and put it up for streaming on purevolume. Other bands, like Copeland took a really bad attitude towards it. I remember a post on their site about Anberlin's new record which said "You shouldn't HAVE to hear any songs before you go out and buy it, but if you REALLY need to, then you can go to their purevolume and stream a song." Bands need to realize who they're alienating and targeting -- the very people who put food in their bellies. Yes, downloading is wrong. But it's not going to stop, no matter what the RIAA does. Sad but true.

Support the bands you like,

[still]

yes! ;)

who wants to start betting on how much he'll get sued for? i'm saying $15,000

[CT-Tim]

Its legal to download. You just cant upload/share...that is illegal.

No, both are illegal. See, the reason the RIAA goes after uploaders instead of downloaders is simple... They can charge you compensatory damages each time you upload a song (or they'll just make up a number).

On the download side, they can charge you compensatory damages each time you download a song, but obviously you only download a song once, and thus they can only hit you with lower amounts of compensatory damages. They can still hit you with punitive damages, but I'd doubt that a jury would hit a college student with many punitive damages.

Example:

Downloader pirates 200 albums @ $10 each. Compensatory damages - $2000.

Uploader shares 200 albums @ $10 each, RIAA claims 1000 people downloaded them. Compensatory damages - $200,000.


See, an uploader is much more likely to settle with the RIAA when facing $200,000 in damages. A downloader that sees "give me $5,000 or I'll sue you for $2,000" is less likely to settle, and honestly, the RIAA does not wish to go to court.

[poppa Q]

Did she just call herself a martyr?

[LPMagic]

Hi, my name is Amy Latten and I recently found out that I'm being sued by the RIAA for uploading music files through a university file-sharing network called i2hub.

I did something illegal.

I was selected at random by the RIAA, out of all the IPs that were given from my school to the RIAA. 25 were selected from my school at random.

I got caught.

I know that some people have compassion in their hearts, and have downloaded gigs upon gigs of music in their lives. I'm basically a martyr for many college kids around the country and world. There are only a few of us who were selected at random and being punished.

Pity me...

Basically, I'm asking for donations, or asking that people help me out and put my link in your profiles. I really need all the help I can get. I'm a second year architecture student at RPI, and going broke very fast. I cannot afford this alone, and my parents are not willing to help me out. I'm doing this alone. I would take donations anywhere from a cent to...whatever you feel you can donate. I need to fundraise and earn my money through my 2 jobs by August 11, 2005, because of the agreement I have settled with the RIAA. I had 90 days from the day of settlement. I beg you to please help me out, my life has been turned upside down. I can't concentrate, and wake up worried. Please find it in your heart to help out.

... oh and send all the cash you could use to buy music to me.

There's 24 other people in her situation right now JUST AT HER SCHOOL. I'm sure at least half are poor students with no help from mommy and daddy. Add on the fact that she didn't mention the amount she needs or this mysterious link we're supposed to add in our signatures, and all I feel like doing is saying "sorry, you're out of luck." You did the crime, now do the time. Oh, and no matryrs actually call themselves one, so don't say that.

- Jeff

[Mitch]

I download music, and if I like the album I buy it when it is released. Why spend $9.99 + for something you don't like? For example.....

I downloaded The Forecast's Late Night Conversations, and bought it a few weeks later. I also downloaded the new Motion City Soundtrack album almost 2 months before it's official release, but ended up buying it on the exact day it came out. And, today I bought the new Foo Fighters cd which came out even though I already had it downloaded since over a week ago.

[DroppedUrPocket]

I dunno what everyone's talking about. She got completely fucked over because the RIAA decided to be bitches and try to scare the shit out of people by picking 25 out of the thousands of people on that network. That's just fucked up.

I hate the fucking RIAA.

[konfusion]

Yeah, don't share, that's how you don't get caught. Secondly, no inde record company is gonna waste money on legal fees suing some kid that downloaded a couple of songs, thirdly there's a real mixed message going out to everyone: the amount of bands i've heard at shows asking people to download their songs "illegally" definitely contradicts any other messages we're being told. And it's not just the small bands either.
I think it's petty targetting kids for a downloading some songs, but then i'm sure others have different opinions.

[FrancesdaMute]

You do know that labels check this website, and if they see you saying you're downloading their music - it really is simply a call to a lawyer and they'll have your contact information.

Problem solved: buy everything you download.

thats the reason i buy cds. that and for my car. and also cause i hate tagging all the downloaded songs when theyre incorrect.

this happened at my school too...i2hub is insane...its a second internet between college campuses...and since each college/university has (for the most part) exceptional internet connections...the download speeds are ridiculous. great tool being used incorrectly. anyway...a kid 3 rooms down got sued in my dorm. sucks the fat one.

[nachoabalaffa]

i love how if this post said "the junior vasity got sued this weekend " you would all be writing "omg!! ill send 20$ is that enough?" but instead you are saying some of the most inappropriate things in response o this girl who has only been caught and punished for doing what about 96% of people who comment on this website do on a regular basis to get leaked albums.

heres another question for anyone with an answer;
if people hate downloading and all that because it 'hurts the artist' then why dont people also ever talk about how used cd stores hurt the artist since those literally never send profits or count as sold cds for the band. the only people that profit there are the employees. in reality, buying a used cd is more hurtful to the band than downloading it because when you download theres still a chance you will buy it for the artwork or to support the band; whereas if you buy the cd used you will never say to yourself "man, i think im going to go to best buy and get a new copy of this cd just for the principle of it"

[bostonHxC]

fuck the fuckin RIAA. fuck everything.

[RockVocalPower]

heres another question for anyone with an answer;
if people hate downloading and all that because it 'hurts the artist' then why dont people also ever talk about how used cd stores hurt the artist since those literally never send profits or count as sold cds for the band. the only people that profit there are the employees. in reality, buying a used cd is more hurtful to the band than downloading it because when you download theres still a chance you will buy it for the artwork or to support the band; whereas if you buy the cd used you will never say to yourself "man, i think im going to go to best buy and get a new copy of this cd just for the principle of it"

Because, at one time or another, the album was purchased, and therefore the artist received a part of the purchase price. The only exception to this is promo copies, which regularly end up in used CD stores, which the artist sees nothing from.

[CT-Tim]

i love how if this post said "the junior vasity got sued this weekend " you would all be writing "omg!! ill send 20$ is that enough?"

Haha... I wish I had scene points to give you. That's the funniest thing I've read on here in a while.

I remember last time I made a tongue-in-cheek joke about TJV I got mod-bombed, haha. Apparently the TJV crowd is quite touchy.

[KarmaWorks]

you're not a martyr... martyrs choose to sacrifice themselves for a belief.. you are just the unlucky scapegoat... there is a biiiiiig difference.

[LeftWideOpen]

Bands should consider it an honor that people want to seek out their music. When bands become more concerned with business than their music, it makes me wonder there intentions when they're actually putting the music together.

Music is meant to be shared. Support the bands you enjoy and the rest will take care of itself.

[InMotion]

fuck the fuckin RIAA. fuck everything.
I bet this guy would make a great poet.

[Dr Balls]

Hi my name is Dr. Balls and I recently some Big Brother policemen pulled me over on the highway because I was going too fast! There were like 10 other people but they decided to pull ME over! I got a ticket and I can't afford to pay it so I don't know what I'm going to do so please have compassion and send me your money!
- Dr. Balls

[Cottage Cheese]

Because, at one time or another, the album was purchased, and therefore the artist received a part of the purchase price. The only exception to this is promo copies, which regularly end up in used CD stores, which the artist sees nothing from.

but see in this case the record store is benefiting twice. say you buy a cd for $12, the artist gets about $1 and the store probably gets $1 or $2 (that's a total guess)... you sell back the CD and the store buys it for $2 and sells it for $8. The artist still only received a dollar while the store got $7 all on one CD. Trust me, I've sold a ton of my old CDs for little money only to see the store sell it used 3 or 4 times how much they paid me for it.

[VinnyVegas]

Even if you wanted to give money, there is no contact information. Maybe I'm just missing it?

Also, this could be a made up story to try and stop kids from sharing music. Since this site is pretty much owned by major labels, it wouldn't surprise me.

[seans seatbelt]

Yeah and it's going to change soon enough for us as well.

You're scaring me, man.

[sidewalks]

right. like its so simple to just say "OMG JUST STOP D/L MUSIC PROBLEM SOLVED !!@!@!@"
if something is FREE and they want to charge $13.99 or something, it better at least appear to be worth it.
anyway, everyone knows, the artist is the last person to get paid...
but hey, let the rich get richer

[EmoTorture]

I dunno what everyone's talking about. She got completely fucked over because the RIAA decided to be bitches and try to scare the shit out of people by picking 25 out of the thousands of people on that network. That's just fucked up.

I hate the fucking RIAA.

How did she get completely fucked over??! That's like saying thousands of people shoplift every year, but only a few get caught and go to jail because of it, and thats not fair. The bottom line is, it is an ILLEGAL activity.

Yeah, its lame of the RIAA to sue kids over downloading, but it is still ILLEGAL. The girl knew this and still continued. There isn't much to argue about. What's even more pathetic is the girl asking for funds from message boards and complete strangers.

[Jason Tate]

Even if you wanted to give money, there is no contact information. Maybe I'm just missing it?

Also, this could be a made up story to try and stop kids from sharing music. Since this site is pretty much owned by major labels, it wouldn't surprise me.
Yah, we're owned by major labels...

Count how many bands here are major label bands .. asshole.

[rayychill]

yikes

[maledixtion]

This is why I refuse to even install download software on my computer (IRC, bearshare, Kazaa, soulseek). That, and I like having artwork, liner notes, and CD's that don't all look the same in a stack as burned CD's do.

Stop downloading, I have no sympathy for you.

[dekdog11]

wait...so i can download anything i want as long as i dont share with people im good?

[thewk]

if you really want to support a band, go to their shows and buy a t-shirt. they get way more money from that shit than they do from one cd.

[Melissa Johnson]

i love how if this post said "the junior vasity got sued this weekend " you would all be writing "omg!! ill send 20$ is that enough?"
The "TJV has bad luck jokes" never get old, do they?

[LewistonSpecial]

Im pretty sure jason tate actually "owns" me. I mean, i've been visiting the site he started several times a day for the last few years...he could probably ask me to kill someone, and i'd consider it. Okay maybe not kill, but definitely push someone over if they were walking towards me.

[RockVocalPower]

but see in this case the record store is benefiting twice. say you buy a cd for $12, the artist gets about $1 and the store probably gets $1 or $2 (that's a total guess)... you sell back the CD and the store buys it for $2 and sells it for $8. The artist still only received a dollar while the store got $7 all on one CD. Trust me, I've sold a ton of my old CDs for little money only to see the store sell it used 3 or 4 times how much they paid me for it.

I understand what you're saying, but all I was doing was telling him why downloading and used CD stores aren't the same type of problem. The artist is still getting paid, albeit very poorly.

[allelish]

Problem solved: buy everything you download.
Word, but you'd still get assfucked whether you bought it or not as the RIAA wouldn't know/care if you bought it right?

[Jason Tate]

No, if you own the CD - you can have a digital copy of it. Which is why going through my harddrive and my CD collection would suck for the RIAA ... because I own WAY more albums than I have on my computer and matching/mixing would be a bitch and a 1/2.

if you really want to support a band, go to their shows and buy a t-shirt. they get way more money from that shit than they do from one cd.

However, if the band wants to stay on their record label and continue touring ie. get tour support money: they need to sell albums.

[DroppedUrPocket]

How did she get completely fucked over??! That's like saying thousands of people shoplift every year, but only a few get caught and go to jail because of it, and thats not fair. The bottom line is, it is an ILLEGAL activity.

Yeah, its lame of the RIAA to sue kids over downloading, but it is still ILLEGAL. The girl knew this and still continued. There isn't much to argue about. What's even more pathetic is the girl asking for funds from message boards and complete strangers.

Duh, it's fucking illegal. That's not what I'm arguing against. Downloading copywritten material is wrong. But it's also completely fucking wrong that this girl, although not innocent, is getting stomped on by the big scary organization because her name was picked out of a fucking hat. She's being used as a fucking example to scare the shit out of people. If they're going to hit people for doing illegal shit, they should hit everyone who was on that fucking network. It's bullshit.

[hellosir]

indie companies would be more likely to spend the legal fees if they have a viable case, because they can include those fees in said case, and indie companies really need you to support them on a level that major labels dont.

i am in a band and don't mind seeing my music on filesharing networks and bittorrent, because at the level we are at, and the amount of money most bands get per cd (shockingly low) it doesn't really take food out of my stomach, it puts more in.

the more people download and like the music, the more kids that show up at my shows. i get more money from the door per person.

the more people who like my band at the show im playing, the more money i make on merch. instead of making 1.00 on a 10 dollar cd, i will make 6 on a 10 dollar t-shirt.

it works out well for indie bands, and it takes money away from larger bands, where the little royalties really add up.

[Jared Kaufman]

Also, this could be a made up story to try and stop kids from sharing music. Since this site is pretty much owned by major labels, it wouldn't surprise me.
I'm not sure who it is, but Warner, Maverick, Geffen, Universal, Epic, etc.; somebody owes me a paycheck.

[drumlife04]

Its legal to download. You just cant upload/share...that is illegal.

JOY! :animateds haha...just kidding, buying cheap CDs at bestbuy is the way to go

[VinnyVegas]

Yah, we're owned by major labels...

Count how many bands here are major label bands .. asshole.

Would you feel better if I called them "minor" labels? Oh, and fuck you too.

[Jared Kaufman]

Would you feel better if I called them "minor" labels? Oh, and fuck you too.
The only one owning anything here is me ...

'cause I got your mom on LOCKDOWN! Oh snap!

[MidniteVulture]

Huh, that sucks... I guess you've learned your lesson about stealing.

If I didn't owe my dad a ton of money, though, I probably would throw a few bones your way.

[As Derrick Rust]

says the kid who probably hunted the internet for the new fallout boy record


omg dewd how did you kno?

[VinnyVegas]

The only one owning anything here is me ...

'cause I got your mom on LOCKDOWN! Oh snap!

Nice

[Jared Kaufman]

Nice
Haha. Thanks. I try. :takes bow:

[TitoThePoolBoy]

if the riaa came to my door i'd throw my comp out the window.

[Cottage Cheese]

No, if you own the CD - you can have a digital copy of it. Which is why going through my harddrive and my CD collection would suck for the RIAA ... because I own WAY more albums than I have on my computer and matching/mixing would be a bitch and a 1/2.

Jason, I know you've boasted about your massive CD collection in the past, but where do you get the money to pay for all of them, and in the past few years how much have you received for free as promos from the label. Not trying to rag on you, just interested.

[Jared Kaufman]

Jason, I know you've boasted about your massive CD collection in the past, but where do you get the money to pay for all of them, and in the past few years how much have you received for free as promos from the label. Not trying to rag on you, just interested.
Slade's mom's ass looks like your username.

[DroppedUrPocket]

Slade's mom's ass looks like your username.

Hahaha.

[radiofriendly]

That's not what I'm arguing against. Downloading copywritten material is wrong. But it's also completely fucking wrong that this girl, although not innocent, is getting stomped on by the big scary organization because her name was picked out of a fucking hat. She's being used as a fucking example to scare the shit out of people. If they're going to hit people for doing illegal shit, they should hit everyone who was on that fucking network. It's bullshit.

she was picked out of a hat full of people that were breaking laws. we've all been warned that if we take our chances we can have action taken against us. it's totally stupid to cry and say it's not fair. we all know the second we download music, that not everyone is going to get caught, and that's why people think they can get away with it. i think it's a tragedy, but to think that setting an example for a group by prosecuting somebody whose broken the law is wrong, is incomprehensible. i wish her the best, but its the nature of the beast.

[allelish]

So if you stop sharing your files over whatever p2p service you use are you safe?

[Jason Tate]

Jason, I know you've boasted about your massive CD collection in the past, but where do you get the money to pay for all of them, and in the past few years how much have you received for free as promos from the label. Not trying to rag on you, just interested.
A lot are promos .. but a lot are things I buy .. I buy most of my CDs at shows though, better prices and I know the money goes to the band. Acceptance, Over It, Days Away, The Starting Line were the last I went to the store to buy ...

I don't buy everything, but I do buy alot of Cds to help bands, and I buy cds I have the promos of on some occasions as well.

As for $ - that part sucks, but I don't believe you should really own something you didn't pay for ... maybe download it, listen a few times, know you love it - and then delete it. Then go get a job, or put your lunch money in a bank account, and save up to buy it. I just have an issue with the kids I see driving around in lowered Civics, dropping dimes on a new cellphone cover or a dimebag of weed - yet have a Cd case just FILLED to the brim with burned-blanks. That's not right. If you didn't buy it - and the band didn't give it to you and say you can have it for no money, you don't have a right to think you own the band's music.

[I.O]

Its like walking outside and getting struck by lightning or something, its a one and a million change...but this girl wasnt lucky.

[skaught]

Haha. Thanks. I try. :takes bow:
:reveals jason tate mysteriously standing naked behind him with hands on hips:

[CaughtInAMoment]

"Hi, my name is Amy Latten and I recently found out that I'm being sued by the RIAA for uploading music files through a university file-sharing network called i2hub. I was selected at random by the RIAA, out of all the IPs that were given from my school to the RIAA. 25 were selected from my school at random. I know that some people have compassion in their hearts, and have downloaded gigs upon gigs of music in their lives. I'm basically a martyr for many college kids around the country and world. There are only a few of us who were selected at random and being punished. Basically, I'm asking for donations, or asking that people help me out and put my link in your profiles. I really need all the help I can get. I'm a second year architecture student at RPI, and going broke very fast. I cannot afford this alone, and my parents are not willing to help me out. I'm doing this alone. I would take donations anywhere from a cent to...whatever you feel you can donate. I need to fundraise and earn my money through my 2 jobs by August 11, 2005, because of the agreement I have settled with the RIAA. I had 90 days from the day of settlement. I beg you to please help me out, my life has been turned upside down. I can't concentrate, and wake up worried. Please find it in your heart to help out."

Submitted by: Amy Latten, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute


i'm sorry all i heard was blah blah blah i'm a dirty tramp.

[KnoWs My NaMe]

I myself burn all the cds i buy onto blanks and those are the ones i leave in my car cause the only music stealing im concerned with are those mother fuckers who break into your car and steal your shit...

[RockVocalPower]

I myself burn all the cds i buy onto blanks and those are the ones i leave in my car cause the only music stealing im concerned with are those mother fuckers who break into your car and steal your shit...

iPod.

[skaught]

lol, there go my scene points off the deep end hahahaha

[KnoWs My NaMe]

ehhh maybe when i have the money

[EmoTorture]

Duh, it's fucking illegal. That's not what I'm arguing against. Downloading copywritten material is wrong. But it's also completely fucking wrong that this girl, although not innocent, is getting stomped on by the big scary organization because her name was picked out of a fucking hat. She's being used as a fucking example to scare the shit out of people. If they're going to hit people for doing illegal shit, they should hit everyone who was on that fucking network. It's bullshit.

It's called life dude. Bad things happen to people....duh!

[theusedcap]

Wanna bet?

in actuality, i think that what that kid said makes sense. i mean, if a major label wants to come down hard on kids because therye a bunch of pricks and all they care about is money, thats one thing. but i also think its another to just assume that all labels would do that. i mean, getting their music heard is whats important. everybody needs money, its a fact. but people hearing/sharing/getting the files, thats what gets their music heard.
if its a good album, buy it.
dont be a dick and jsut illegally download something, put it on your ipod, then foreget about the band. the bands need money, thats their primary jobs, thats how they get by and eat. they write this music for the passion yes and all that, but if they didnt need money, they wouldnt sell the records.

but in reality, noone is ever going to be able to stop file sharing and all of that. its almost impossible. as long as people can connect to each other, like they do today, theyres no real way anyone can actually stop the sharing.
im not saying that its right, but thats just how it is.

[EmoTorture]

A lot are promos .. but a lot are things I buy .. I buy most of my CDs at shows though, better prices and I know the money goes to the band. Acceptance, Over It, Days Away, The Starting Line were the last I went to the store to buy ...

I don't buy everything, but I do buy alot of Cds to help bands, and I buy cds I have the promos of on some occasions as well.

As for $ - that part sucks, but I don't believe you should really own something you didn't pay for ... maybe download it, listen a few times, know you love it - and then delete it. Then go get a job, or put your lunch money in a bank account, and save up to buy it. I just have an issue with the kids I see driving around in lowered Civics, dropping dimes on a new cellphone cover or a dimebag of weed - yet have a Cd case just FILLED to the brim with burned-blanks. That's not right. If you didn't buy it - and the band didn't give it to you and say you can have it for no money, you don't have a right to think you own the band's music.

whoa, I agree with you 100%.

[hype]

i still find magic in opening a brand new cd from the store or a show and reading the lyrics and looking at the artwork. it gives me a warm fuzzy feeling

[floz2323]

"A martyr for college students" hahaha...you aren't a martyr sir, Nathan Hale was a martyr (some CT pride). Hey, everyone downloads but you have to realize the consequences and live with them.

[tedE]

When will the computer illiterate retards learn that anything that becomes popular with the masses is going to get the attention of the RIAA? i2hub was doomed from the start, especially since Universities are not going to stand up for students who are abusing their bandwidth.

[Cottage Cheese]

I wonder if Amy Latten is browsing all the posts and sees how everyone has no sympathy or support for her.

[thescoremag]

get off your ass, get a job and buy a CD of a band you like, that is why there is MySpace Music and PureVolume. so that you can preview a few songs in hopes that you will SUPPORT the artists and go out and buy the CD's that they pour their hearts into. think about it, you work, they work to make the music for you, you buy the CD they get paid dor the work they did and you get enjoyment out of their work....am i repeating myself.

[VOTELP]

Don't steal and your sorry ass won't get sued.

[thescoremag]

I have no support for her by the way

[New]

Why would I give this girl money? Like I'm sorry but this is the biggest load of bullshit. I mean yeah I feel bad and yeah that sucks, but wow quit the begging. Actions have consequences and sometimes you have to own up to that.

[tedE]

thirdly there's a real mixed message going out to everyone: the amount of bands i've heard at shows asking people to download their songs "illegally" definitely contradicts any other messages we're being told. And it's not just the small bands either.

Exactly. Like I was at the Pale Pacific, Circa Survive, Dredg show, and The Pale Pacific told everybody to buy their EP and "burn it for all your friends." They're not big, but a lot of bigger bands also say the same thing. Even if the person you share it with doesn't like it, they may go to their friend and say "hey, you listen to this type of music, maybe you'll like this" and that person will get into them and buy some of their other stuff, go to concerts, etc.

[GAD_guy]

You do know that labels check this website, and if they see you saying you're downloading their music - it really is simply a call to a lawyer and they'll have your contact information.

Problem solved: buy everything you download.

I DOWNLOAD TONS OF MUSIC FROM EVERY SINGLE LABEL THAT IS READING THIS. go ahead and sue me. jason i highly doubt you buy everything you download, you may own a hard copy becuase labels send you free cds and shit but not everyone has that luxury. if i could only listen to what i bought i would have a much much less expansive taste in music. i buy enough to fuel the record industry, and i don't feel guilty downloading other shit becuase i wouldn't have bought it anyways. do you remember when you were 100% against the RIAA suing people, and were advocating those "fuck the RIAA" t-shirts. now that you've become all buddy buddy with some labels, you're all high and mighty. if i was in a band, i would be honored that my album leaked a month before it came out and everyone was desperate to hear it. becuase not only would that mean that i would have a crapload of fans, but also it would tell me that my record sales were going to be pretty damn good when the album actually did come out. record sales are really no smaller than they have ever been, that's just what the RIAA says to make us feel guilty for downloading. i have news for them, you might as well quit fighting it because it already too big to stop and it's only going to get bigger.

i wouldn't send her any money unless i knew exactly how much they were suing her for.

[tragedyco]

if you really want to support a band, go to their shows and buy a t-shirt. they get way more money from that shit than they do from one cd.

yeah but labels dont make anything off of that. No cd sales: the band gets dropped. Merch is great for the band, but cd sales is what keeps them signed.

[aloneatlastnj]

Bands should consider it an honor that people want to seek out their music. When bands become more concerned with business than their music, it makes me wonder there intentions when they're actually putting the music together.

Music is meant to be shared. Support the bands you enjoy and the rest will take care of itself.



well said.

[brorocklive]

Its kinda sick and sad how unfortunate that is. It's a ridiculous suit and it's also pretty dissappointing that the "brilliant" minds who comment on these forums cant even swallow their pride enough to feign a comment of compassion. I feel bad for her because it sucks a lot and I know that it would feel good if I had people rallying around me for something as stupid as this. At least pretend you want to help.

[Cottage Cheese]

yeah but labels dont make anything off of that. No cd sales: the band gets dropped. Merch is great for the band, but cd sales is what keeps them signed.

has an independent label ever dropped a band due to poor record sales?

[Honest2aFault]

If labels read this, suck my fucking cock you whores.

[hometownzero]

So if you stop sharing your files over whatever p2p service you use are you safe?
No, they've got satellites watching your computer screen to see if you're playing illegal music, and a SWAT team waiting around the corner to bust in and pound your ass.

Just buy the CDs, and if you download something there are two options (a) you like it, you buy the CD or (b) you don't like it, you delete it.

And for those of you who say you don't have money, get a job. I worked nine months at a job I hated to buy my guitar.

[littlejohn]

has an independent label ever dropped a band due to poor record sales?
Murder by Death- Eyeball Records


im not sure if thats the reason but when you asked they were the firt to come to mind

[smelltheglove]

awww, sure, i'll help you out, and maybe she can send me a check for my 1999 underage drinking offense because thats about as fair as this cry for help

GUESS FUCKING WHAT??? DOWNLOADING AND FILE SHARING IS FUCKING ILLEGAL AND ANYONE INTELLIGENT ENOUGH TO OPERATE A COMPUTER KNOWS THAT, NOT TO MENTION THE FUCKING WARNINGS ON CD'S PATENTLY STATING THE MATERIAL IS COPYWRITED!!!!!

fuck anyone who gets caught for downloading. fuck you all. i've spent thousands of dollars on cd's because i realize that its wrong. go to purevolume for previews, but downloading full albums is wrong and illegal. its stealing. plain and simple. boo fucking hoo.

[tragedyco]

has an independent label ever dropped a band due to poor record sales?

Not sure...but if a band isn't selling cds, they sure wont get label support (indie or major).

[so typical]

if you really want to support a band, go to their shows and buy a t-shirt. they get way more money from that shit than they do from one cd.


this i do like a lot

[karma2burn]

Hi. You're file sharing on p2p, nonetheless. You deserve to get sued like the moron you are. Have a good day.

[Gator_2727]

If labels and bands are so worried about their music leaking maybe they need to find a better way to protect it because i don't really understand how a bands music can leak without them knowing it, besides maybe somebody stealing a demo from their van

[ACA]

Hello, again kids. Let's sit down with Mr. Anthony and he'll tell you a tale..

Fact: You are NOT allowed to share someone else's copyrighted material. If person A can get a song from you for FREE, but can also BUY IT from iTunes (or insert other online method) -- then when the person chooses FREE, the label/artist is LOSING MONEY.

Fact: The RIAA is NOT a government authority like the FBI. They cannot come into your house, fuck your girlfriend, eat out your dog's ass, and then handcuff you because you have the new 50 Cent CD on your hard drive.

Fact: When you share on a client such as i2hub, Kazaa, etc, you are leaving your computer WIDE OPEN to anyone -- RIAA, hackers, my mother, anyone. You wouldn't stand in the middle of Times Square with a giant poster and blinking lights that says HEROIN FOR SALE. It's far too easy to get caught. If you're going to share music, send it to your friends. If you bought the new 50 Cent CD, rip it to your computer, and then send it to your gangsta friend via AIM, the RIAA won't know--they can't know--they're not a government authority monitoring internet traffic!

Fact: Stealing music IS A CRIME. It's no different than a bootlegged movie, stolen cable/satellite TV, or that new plasma screen you picked up that fell off the back of your cousin's truck. Artists bust their balls making music. If you want the music, buy it. But what about that 1982 demo that The Cure did in Robert Smith's basement that was recording by his neighbor with a shitty tape? News to you, this whole ordeal isn't about someone who downloads the rare demos, strange remixes, and other hard-to-find tracks. No one is coming to knock on your door because you downloaded an AFI song that Jade recorded in his bathroom. But if you're downloading the new Motion City Soundtrack album, you damn well better expect Epitaph to be pissed.

Fact: Whether you think music is overpriced or not does not give you rights over copyrighted material. I think iPods are overpriced, but I don't break into Best Buy and steal them.

Fact: Many artists don't care if you download the CD. I've seen Thursday many times, and Geoff has mentioned that they don't give a shit if you download their CD: showing up to a show is payment enough from them. The Offspring had no intention of selling Conspiracy of One or Greatest Hits -- but their label wasn't willing to give them FUNDING if they didn't SELL it. You see, your favorite band probably isn't rich. They might have more money than you or I (or maybe less in many cases), but they do not have the money needed to do everything. Labels provide the money. CDs sell, and labels get the money back. Then, labels make profit (to support MORE RECORDINGS) and artists make profits (to eat cereal for dinner).


If you're going to download music, then there is nothing I can do to stop you--nor do I care, honestly. I do ASK, however, that if you download a band's CD, and you enjoy the CD and listen to the CD: support the band. Buy a shirt from the band when they're on tour. Buy tickets to see them on tour. Drop their merch guy a few bucks or a sandwich. When I got a chance to meet the Plain White Ts, I picked up a few buttons--I spent like $5 or so on a handful. I knew that the $5 I handed their singer was going into their pocket, and that I was supporting the band. They had the money for gas, or food, that day.

No one expects you to buy 100 albums a month.. but there are always those GREAT albums and GREAT bands that you love, and I hope you support. If you are downloading music, do it wisely, and don't be the idiot with a neon sign selling heroin in the middle of NYC.. you're bound to get busted.

-ACA

[GAD_guy]

Murder by Death- Eyeball Records


im not sure if thats the reason but when you asked they were the firt to come to mind

that is defintely not the reason. for one they were one of the biggest sellers on the label. two geoff rickley was close freinds with the band. and three i know a couple members personally and leaving the label was their choice.

[theusedcap]

Hello, again kids. Let's sit down with Mr. Anthony and he'll tell you a tale..

Fact: You are NOT allowed to share someone else's copyrighted material. If person A can get a song from you for FREE, but can also BUY IT from iTunes (or insert other online method) -- then when the person chooses FREE, the label/artist is LOSING MONEY.

Fact: The RIAA is NOT a government authority like the FBI. They cannot come into your house, fuck your girlfriend, eat out your dog's ass, and then handcuff you because you have the new 50 Cent CD on your hard drive.

Fact: When you share on a client such as i2hub, Kazaa, etc, you are leaving your computer WIDE OPEN to anyone -- RIAA, hackers, my mother, anyone. You wouldn't stand in the middle of Times Square with a giant poster and blinking lights that says HEROIN FOR SALE. It's far too easy to get caught. If you're going to share music, send it to your friends. If you bought the new 50 Cent CD, rip it to your computer, and then send it to your gangsta friend via AIM, the RIAA won't know--they can't know--they're not a government authority monitoring internet traffic!

Fact: Stealing music IS A CRIME. It's no different than a bootlegged movie, stolen cable/satellite TV, or that new plasma screen you picked up that fell off the back of your cousin's truck. Artists bust their balls making music. If you want the music, buy it. But what about that 1982 demo that The Cure did in Robert Smith's basement that was recording by his neighbor with a shitty tape? News to you, this whole ordeal isn't about someone who downloads the rare demos, strange remixes, and other hard-to-find tracks. No one is coming to knock on your door because you downloaded an AFI song that Jade recorded in his bathroom. But if you're downloading the new Motion City Soundtrack album, you damn well better expect Epitaph to be pissed.

Fact: Whether you think music is overpriced or not does not give you rights over copyrighted material. I think iPods are overpriced, but I don't break into Best Buy and steal them.

Fact: Many artists don't care if you download the CD. I've seen Thursday many times, and Geoff has mentioned that they don't give a shit if you download their CD: showing up to a show is payment enough from them. The Offspring had no intention of selling Conspiracy of One or Greatest Hits -- but their label wasn't willing to give them FUNDING if they didn't SELL it. You see, your favorite band probably isn't rich. They might have more money than you or I (or maybe less in many cases), but they do not have the money needed to do everything. Labels provide the money. CDs sell, and labels get the money back. Then, labels make profit (to support MORE RECORDINGS) and artists make profits (to eat cereal for dinner).


If you're going to download music, then there is nothing I can do to stop you--nor do I care, honestly. I do ASK, however, that if you download a band's CD, and you enjoy the CD and listen to the CD: support the band. Buy a shirt from the band when they're on tour. Buy tickets to see them on tour. Drop their merch guy a few bucks or a sandwich. When I got a chance to meet the Plain White Ts, I picked up a few buttons--I spent like $5 or so on a handful. I knew that the $5 I handed their singer was going into their pocket, and that I was supporting the band. They had the money for gas, or food, that day.

No one expects you to buy 100 albums a month.. but there are always those GREAT albums and GREAT bands that you love, and I hope you support. If you are downloading music, do it wisely, and don't be the idiot with a neon sign selling heroin in the middle of NYC.. you're bound to get busted.

-ACA


very, very well said.

[littlejohn]

You wouldn't stand in the middle of Times Square with a giant poster and blinking lights that says HEROIN FOR SALE.


so thats why i got caught!!!

[StillPickedLast]

anyone want to shoot up with me?

[Cocky Caucasion]

She should've known better. It was written in the bible.

"Thou who downloadeth music on thy Internet is a sinner sayeth God!"- John- 3:15

She's a sinner and God uses the RIAA to punish those who go against his will.

[littlejohn]

that is defintely not the reason. for one they were one of the biggest sellers on the label. two geoff rickley was close freinds with the band. and three i know a couple members personally and leaving the label was their choice.

really? ok i personnaly thought the my chemical romance were the biggest sellers with their debut, and when eyeball made a statement about it they sounded like they dropped them, well, to me anyway




NEWS for 12.13.2004: All

Good Things Come To An End
You may have read that Murder By Death is no longer with Eyeball Records. There has been all sorts of speculation as to what's going on, but the real story is much less interesting. Murder By Death has been with Eyeball for over three years. During that time we've laughed, we've cried, we've become dear friends and celebrated partners. This past year, with all of your support, Murder By Death has grown immensely... and so has Eyeball. In keeping with the spirit of family that the label has always had, we felt it was best to give the band our blessing to entertain other opportunities. This isn't the end of our relationship, nor is it the concrete beginning of a new one for Murder By Death. Put simply, this indie rock world is a large one, and it can be an amazing experience to sample as much of it as possible. Eyeball is a small corner of a large community, and we wish Murder By Death the best of luck exploring the rest of it. .

[Craftsy21]

Here's the thing... How do you justify making people buy something they don't even get to hear? 15 dollars to buy something you know 1/15th of? That's hardly fair. Some of these artists/companies expect you to buy cd's like fucking lotto tickets... and you know what, you have about the same odds anymore of getting a good cd - A cd that's actually worthy of paying for each individual track.

Yes - itunes is helping this with individual track purchasing, but you still only get to hear 30 seconds of the song legally before you have to decide to spend that money on it.

What the music industry knows but refuses to acknowledge is this: The current system is not working. There are too many people besides the bands getting paid, and they refuse to eliminate these people by making a new system of music distribution... I don't have the plan thought out myself, but it would not be that difficult -- put the fans more in touch with the artists in as many ways as possible. Rather than trying to stay ahead of the curve, they are sticking their heads up their asses, and like so many others have said here, they are alienating their customers. There is not going to be a law passed to stop file sharing - it will not happen.. it violates too many basic rights. The RIAA should be taking notes from this and seeing the future of music instead of continuing to stare back at the past. So fuck you RIAA, you did this yourselves.

[GAD_guy]

really? ok i personnaly thought the my chemical romance were the biggest sellers with their debut, and when eyeball made a statement about it they sounded like they dropped them, well, to me anyway

i didn't say they were #1 biggest, i said they were one of the biggest. plus mcr isn't even on that label anymore.
that statement sounds more to me like muder by death is moving on to a bigger label and eyeball is giving them their blessing. and that (i am fairly sure) is what is happening. they probably won't announce anything until they have at least a release date for a new record though.

[Total Silence]

I actually find this hillarious. I buy my music thru itunes or a record store. stop downloading music and you wouldnt have these problems

[littlejohn]

i didn't say they were #1 biggest, i said they were one of the biggest. plus mcr isn't even on that label anymore.
that statement sounds more to me like muder by death is moving on to a bigger label and eyeball is giving them their blessing. and that (i am fairly sure) is what is happening. they probably won't announce anything until they have at least a release date for a new record though.
at first i thought they were going on to a bigger label as well, but its been a while since i have heard anything where they may have gone now.i know mcr isnt on the label anymore i said with their debut, im sure that three cheers. . . has made more people go out and buy the debut from eyeball, same with thursday and waiting. but i was just trying to figure out where they went

[thewebguy]

You do know that labels check this website, and if they see you saying you're downloading their music - it really is simply a call to a lawyer and they'll have your contact information.

Problem solved: buy everything you download.

actually, that's not true. you can talk all the download talk you want on these forums, and unless you start posting links that you're hosting yourself or attaching files, there's nothign they can really do. the riaa cannot subpoena your contact information unless you have already been essentially convicted in court, based on network data and your ip address. they have to prove you did it before they can find out who you are.

[SonEric84]

Slade's mom's ass looks like your username.


hahahahahaha That was fucking great.

[smelltheglove]

very, very well said.

that was arguably the best read i've ever seen on here. sadly, dumb kids still think they are somehow justified in stealing music, like the stupid bitch the RIAA busted who has the nerve to ask for money. the RIAA aren't soem evil organization, they are trying to protect the rights of music labels and artists.

i guaranfuckingtee you alkaline trio would have sold more than 40K their first week if it wasnt for downloading. this IS hurting sales, which hurts the label, which hurts the artist. its fucking wrong, but since you aren't seeing it, all you are seeing is a little progress of download bar going accross your pc screen in the comfort of your home or dormroom is NO FUCKING DIFFERENT than walking into Boarders and jacking a few paperbacks.

[littlejohn]

Slade's mom's ass looks like your username.

leave my woman alone dammiT!!!!!!

that was arguably the best read i've ever seen on here. sadly, dumb kids still think they are somehow justified in stealing music, like the stupid bitch the RIAA busted who has the nerve to ask for money. the RIAA aren't soem evil organization, they are trying to protect the rights of music labels and artists.

i guaranfuckingtee you alkaline trio would have sold more than 40K their first week if it wasnt for downloading. this IS hurting sales, which hurts the label, which hurts the artist. its fucking wrong, but since you aren't seeing it, all you are seeing is a little progress of download bar going accross your pc screen in the comfort of your home or dormroom is NO FUCKING DIFFERENT than walking into Boarders and jacking a few paperbacks.
would it be better if we just stole from Hot Topic or is that still hurting the artist, i think that just hurts the store, but im not sure

[smelltheglove]

Here's the thing... How do you justify making people buy something they don't even get to hear? 15 dollars to buy something you know 1/15th of? That's hardly fair. Some of these artists/companies expect you to buy cd's like fucking lotto tickets... and you know what, you have about the same odds anymore of getting a good cd - A cd that's actually worthy of paying for each individual track.

.

your logic is fucked. so should I be able to go to the movies and see it for free since it might not be good? should i be able to stand in boarders and read a book cover to cover to make sure it has a good ending?

yes, buying cd's can be a crapshoot. i regret getting the new goldfinger. tough fucking shit. its the nature of art. its no different than movies. you win some you lose some. its disposable income. its not like paying your gas bill...that guarantees you service. there is no guarantee you are going to like art.

try to think fucking straight.

[overoverme]

My friend GOES to RPI, and KNOWS this girl.
His other friend also got sued, but this girl flipped shits about getting sued, he said she got REAL upset.
There is no link in the message, so she is clearly spamming the internet with that message.

My friend also says that all RPI students were FORWARNED to stop sharing stuff by the school, because of the RIAA. After this warning was given, this girl was caught.

[smelltheglove]

leave my woman alone dammiT!!!!!!


would it be better if we just stole from Hot Topic or is that still hurting the artist, i think that just hurts the store, but im not sure

it hurts both, its one less sale for the artist and label, and a lost product for the store. christ someday you kids will wakeup when you have to work to put food on your tabel instead of mommy and daddy paying for everything and maybe you'll run your own company like myself and understand how fucked and selfish you are

My friend GOES to RPI, and KNOWS this girl.
His other friend also got sued, but this girl flipped shits about getting sued, he said she got REAL upset.
There is no link in the message, so she is clearly spamming the internet with that message.

My friend also says that all RPI students were FORWARNED to stop sharing stuff by the school, because of the RIAA. After this warning was given, this girl was caught.

yea thats the other thing. fucking EVERY college campus around the country has been warning students of this risk. i've been outta school for a few years, so i missed it, but my friend who still goes to Pitt has had several memo's and shit posted aroudn the dorms warning the students about illlegal file sharing. tough shit.

[XxLoserDanxX]

I do download music, I buy the CD, delete the old files and then just rip the CD quality songs onto my computer and fill up my iPod. But, for those whom spend nights downloading music, i suggest you download porn. you can get a good work out sitting in your basement with the door closed masturbating, just make sure your parents went to bed first ...

[rescuejeremy]

ITunes music store isn't too expensive, I use it the majority of the time. However most of the time it won't let you burn the tracks onto a CD-R but you can throw them on your IPod.

[littlejohn]

it hurts both, its one less sale for the artist and label, and a lost product for the store. christ someday you kids will wakeup when you have to work to put food on your tabel instead of mommy and daddy paying for everything and maybe you'll run your own company like myself and understand how fucked and selfish you are



yea thats the other thing. fucking EVERY college campus around the country has been warning students of this risk. i've been outta school for a few years, so i missed it, but my friend who still goes to Pitt has had several memo's and shit posted aroudn the dorms warning the students about illlegal file sharing. tough shit.
i hope thats not aimed towards me, i know exactly how it is to support your self and a family ok?

www.talkingpinatas.com

if you want to help me support my family and put food in my kids mouths order a pinata or two!

[Isolated]

I am young, ripe and full of custard. Who wants some??

[HalfwayJames]

It's only illegal if you get caught, and sadly, she did.

[smelltheglove]

i hope thats not aimed towards me, i know exactly how it is to support your self and a family ok?

www.talkingpinatas.com

if you want to help me support my family and put food in my kids mouths order a pinata or two!

if only you told me this in late april. we had a cinco de mayo party. we needed pinatas. dammit.

[littlejohn]

if only you told me this in late april. we had a cinco de mayo party. we needed pinatas. dammit.
haha sorry i should put the link in my sig, maybe it will get me some more business

[atticusfinch]

man, that sucks bigtime.

Anyone starting to think this is a bunch of conspiracy bullshit, all this shit the RIAA is pulling?

I dunno man.

But yeah, just don't share anything you download. Keep it for personal use.

[Craftsy21]

your logic is fucked. so should I be able to go to the movies and see it for free since it might not be good? should i be able to stand in boarders and read a book cover to cover to make sure it has a good ending?

yes, buying cd's can be a crapshoot. i regret getting the new goldfinger. tough fucking shit. its the nature of art. its no different than movies. you win some you lose some. its disposable income. its not like paying your gas bill...that guarantees you service. there is no guarantee you are going to like art.

try to think fucking straight.


I am thinking fucking straight. If i pay 15 dollars for something, i better get my 15 dollars out of it. What's so bad about allowing people to stream the entire album like many artists are doing right now? You don't think this has improved the music world both for artists and consumers? Who do you have to thank for this change... is it.. the RIAA? No dumbass, it's downloaders everywhere. You see how change comes about now you little fuck? You don't just sit around on your fucking hands and say, "that's how they tell me it should be, so it must be right". "It's a crapshoot". Fuck you asshole, quit selling yourself out, have some self respect... stand up for yourself you pussy. And don't come challenging my logic b/c you can't read between the lines.

[ACA]

I like pinatas.

-ACA

[Isolated]

Some people get killed by buses. Some people lose their dog Chester McJelly Balls to a house fire. Some people enjoy having sex with men. Some people get fined money by the RIAA.
Three out of four things listed happened to that girl.
Donate. Now.

[littlejohn]

I like pinatas.

-ACA
i like it when i have something to do at work

[radiofriendly]

Here's the thing... How do you justify making people buy something they don't even get to hear? 15 dollars to buy something you know 1/15th of? That's hardly fair. Some of these artists/companies expect you to buy cd's like fucking lotto tickets... and you know what, you have about the same odds anymore of getting a good cd - A cd that's actually worthy of paying for each individual track.

Yes - itunes is helping this with individual track purchasing, but you still only get to hear 30 seconds of the song legally before you have to decide to spend that money on it.

What the music industry knows but refuses to acknowledge is this: The current system is not working. There are too many people besides the bands getting paid, and they refuse to eliminate these people by making a new system of music distribution... I don't have the plan thought out myself, but it would not be that difficult -- put the fans more in touch with the artists in as many ways as possible. Rather than trying to stay ahead of the curve, they are sticking their heads up their asses, and like so many others have said here, they are alienating their customers. There is not going to be a law passed to stop file sharing - it will not happen.. it violates too many basic rights. The RIAA should be taking notes from this and seeing the future of music instead of continuing to stare back at the past. So fuck you RIAA, you did this yourselves.

i just think there's too many outlets to justify your purchase these days. there's purevolume, websites, magazines,there's music reviews(most of them are pretty informative about what you might like about it) there's track previews. what more do you need. how much more in touch with fans does it get? by the time your satisfied, whole albums will be up for preview, leaving artists and record labels vulnerable for these same people they're trying to prosecute. it just comes full circle. would you use this kind of philosophy and protest the distribution of film. i'm going to pay $11.00 tomorrow to go see Batman Begins(imax). i've seen and read enough about the film to make a decision, having only seen a minute and a half of footage. same with the foo fighters album. i heard 4 great songs, and it's gotten a lot of buzz, so im going to make an investment. i just don't think your expectations can create a feasible solution.

[CalamityRecords]

If labels and bands are so worried about their music leaking maybe they need to find a better way to protect it because i don't really understand how a bands music can leak without them knowing it, besides maybe somebody stealing a demo from their van

promos get sent out a month or more beforehand and this is how they usually leak.

[ForeverInADay]

Problem solved: buy everything you download.
As I do...I need a job though so I can catch up.

[girl like that]

This is going to sound retarded as fuck, but will downloading music via AIM Filesharing get you caught by the RIAA?

[atticusfinch]

This is going to sound retarded as fuck, but will downloading music via AIM Filesharing get you caught by the RIAA?
As far as I know, that's a negatory confirmation.

Anyone wanna back me up on that?

[littlejohn]

This is going to sound retarded as fuck, but will downloading music via AIM Filesharing get you caught by the RIAA?
im pretty sure it wont there is no way to track the file tranfers over that, i believe when you are on aim its a Direct Connection so there is no middlemen therefore no one can watch if you are only on aim, spyware is a different story, if there is spyware on your computer, anyone can see what you are doing

[Craftsy21]

i just think there's too many outlets to justify your purchase these days. there's purevolume, websites, magazines,there's music reviews(most of them are pretty informative about what you might like about it) there's track previews. what more do you need. how much more in touch with fans does it get? by the time your satisfied, whole albums will be up for preview, leaving artists and record labels vulnerable for these same people they're trying to prosecute. it just comes full circle. would you use this kind of philosophy and protest the distribution of film. i'm going to pay $11.00 tomorrow to go see Batman Begins(imax). i've seen and read enough about the film to make a decision, having only seen a minute and a half of footage. same with the foo fighters album. i heard 4 great songs, and it's gotten a lot of buzz, so im going to make an investment. i just don't think your expectations can create a feasible solution.


Wait what was this.. an actual thought out opinion on what i said??? Oh my god, my heart just skipped a beat... First of all thanks for the response consisting of more than just insults questioning my intelligence.

I've always thought of movies and music as much different entities -- A song is on average, a 3-4 minute experience that you simply listen to.. A movie is for the eyes and ears and it takes several hours on average... The movie generally has some sort of surprise or hidden piece that you don't want to know before you get there.. I've seen my favorite movies probably between 10 and 15 times.. I've listened to my favorite songs probably more than 200 times.

I just don't feel they are a really good comparison. They are sold different, made differently, and really don't have the same issues that music does in my opinion. The "theatre experience" is something music just doesn't have anything comparable to right now, and never has.


Anyways... I think the "problem" in my logic is that I don't look at music as a bag of chips. It's not something that runs out after experiencing it -- Once you hear the song, they can't stop you from hearing it in your head over and over again.. so it shouldn't be treated and packaged and sold like everything else that can be consumed and re-bought.

This really just scratches the surface -- and i'm going to confuse myself and pretty much everyone else if I try to continue, but my main point is that, music is not something that gets consumed -- but it's packaged like something that gets consumed. And that's where the problem is. Do with that what you will.. insult me again if you must. I know I sound idiotic on here, but somebody will get me. Lots of artists have said it better than me already...

[ryanbrogz]

As far as I know, that's a negatory confirmation.

Anyone wanna back me up on that?


as far as i know, no...my school doesnt allow anyone to have mp3 search engines on their computer, so me and a decent size group of friends shared our stuff through IM and it was all good, it was nice cause i'm friends with the kids in the campus radio station who get EVERYTHING, so i'd just pick stuff up through there, sometimes early...still i buy a lot of stuff, i just get a chance to listen to it all before i go and drop too much money on a potentially shitty cd.

[Greg Dona]

so... who heres giving money?

[girl like that]

As far as I know, that's a negatory confirmation.

Anyone wanna back me up on that?


Thank you

[wesgemm08]

hey RIAA, sue me for downloading music so i have even less money to buy cd's and support bands through merch and going to their shows

[TyroneShoolaces]

i might think of helping her out if she was fighting the RIAA instead of settling. i dont think anybody has tried to fight it yet.

[atticusfinch]

Thank you
Sure thing.

i might think of helping her out if she was fighting the RIAA instead of settling. i dont think anybody has tried to fight it yet.
Yeah, whatever happened to sticking it to the man?

I guess punk is truly getting the shit kicked out of it right now.

Sad.

[radiofriendly]

Wait what was this.. an actual thought out opinion on what i said??? Oh my god, my heart just skipped a beat... First of all thanks for the response consisting of more than just insults questioning my intelligence.

I've always thought of movies and music as much different entities -- A song is on average, a 3-4 minute experience that you simply listen to.. A movie is for the eyes and ears and it takes several hours on average... The movie generally has some sort of surprise or hidden piece that you don't want to know before you get there.. I've seen my favorite movies probably between 10 and 15 times.. I've listened to my favorite songs probably more than 200 times.

I just don't feel they are a really good comparison. They are sold different, made differently, and really don't have the same issues that music does in my opinion. The "theatre experience" is something music just doesn't have anything comparable to right now, and never has.


Anyways... I think the "problem" in my logic is that I don't look at music as a bag of chips. It's not something that runs out after experiencing it -- Once you hear the song, they can't stop you from hearing it in your head over and over again.. so it shouldn't be treated and packaged and sold like everything else that can be consumed and re-bought.

This really just scratches the surface -- and i'm going to confuse myself and pretty much everyone else if I try to continue, but my main point is that, music is not something that gets consumed -- but it's packaged like something that gets consumed. And that's where the problem is. Do with that what you will.. insult me again if you must. I know I sound idiotic on here, but somebody will get me. Lots of artists have said it better than me already...

nah, point well taken. music also costs more, and i see where you're coming from. i don't want to compare the experience so much as the goal of distributor's which is making money and getting people to spend. i see a lot of logic with your point though. i've made worthless cd purchases, but not nearly as often as i make good ones, and i think that's because i utilize the resources i have. i go to certain websites because i've developed a sense to how they percieve the music i like. it's not foolproof, but i think it's as far as we can go before we really just start to effect the artist. word.

[Gator_2727]

promos get sent out a month or more beforehand and this is how they usually leak.
If thats the case then why don't they put the responsiblity on the people who recieve these promos??

[GAD_guy]

i might think of helping her out if she was fighting the RIAA instead of settling. i dont think anybody has tried to fight it yet.

i have actually been hoping i get sued for quite some time now just so i can fight the RIAA. i know i will probably lose but i really think a good fight could make a huge difference in the way they operate.

[number1alien]

Its kinda sick and sad how unfortunate that is. It's a ridiculous suit and it's also pretty dissappointing that the "brilliant" minds who comment on these forums cant even swallow their pride enough to feign a comment of compassion. I feel bad for her because it sucks a lot and I know that it would feel good if I had people rallying around me for something as stupid as this. At least pretend you want to help.


Afuckingmen.

[EmoTorture]

If thats the case then why don't they put the responsiblity on the people who recieve these promos??

Because labels want their artists in AP, RollingStone, Spin, etc. and its not going to happen when a label points their finger at the precious people who control who gets a feature or cd review. So why not blame the poor kids...lame.

[TyroneShoolaces]

i have actually been hoping i get sued for quite some time now just so i can fight the RIAA. i know i will probably lose but i really think a good fight could make a huge difference in the way they operate.

you stole the words out of my mouth. i was gonna say that.

[boyinastitch]

You do know that labels check this website, and if they see you saying you're downloading their music - it really is simply a call to a lawyer and they'll have your contact information.

Problem solved: buy everything you download.


true. if i was a forty year old gold digger who worked for a label that is looking for artsy,pop,gay ***gish music to profit on id come to absolutepunk.net too.

[updownleftright]

this has probably already been answered but..

has the RIAA started to crack down on soulseek and MIRC yet?

[Gator_2727]

Because labels want their artists in AP, RollingStone, Spin, etc. and its not going to happen when a label points their finger at the precious people who control who gets a feature or cd review. So why not blame the poor kids...lame.
So, your saying that the magazines are controling the lables because if they feel that leaking on the internet is bad for their business than they should point the finger and screw having a review in a magazine.

[cheeruptheEmo]

that sucks

[Craftsy21]

nah, point well taken. music also costs more, and i see where you're coming from. i don't want to compare the experience so much as the goal of distributor's which is making money and getting people to spend. i see a lot of logic with your point though. i've made worthless cd purchases, but not nearly as often as i make good ones, and i think that's because i utilize the resources i have. i go to certain websites because i've developed a sense to how they percieve the music i like. it's not foolproof, but i think it's as far as we can go before we really just start to effect the artist. word.


Oh yeah - i'm not going to sit here and tell you I never buy an album. I do, i definitely do.. But it's when i have the money to do so, and for artists I really respect... I buy band dvd's and merch though, I'm not a complete freeloader.. I am just really morally opposed to putting money in the pockets of these fat-cat CEO's that I feel are hurting music so much. That's all...

[radiofriendly]

Oh yeah - i'm not going to sit here and tell you I never buy an album. I do, i definitely do.. But it's when i have the money to do so, and for artists I really respect... I buy band dvd's and merch though, I'm not a complete freeloader.. I am just really morally opposed to putting money in the pockets of these fat-cat CEO's that I feel are hurting music so much. That's all...

agreed

[IcedOpethBlind]

leave my woman alone dammiT!!!!!!


would it be better if we just stole from Hot Topic or is that still hurting the artist, i think that just hurts the store, but im not sure

i pity the the stupid mall kids who put down like $15 average on cd's at that store. jesus christ. i hate mall music stores.

[Cottage Cheese]

Here's the thing... How do you justify making people buy something they don't even get to hear? 15 dollars to buy something you know 1/15th of? That's hardly fair. Some of these artists/companies expect you to buy cd's like fucking lotto tickets... and you know what, you have about the same odds anymore of getting a good cd - A cd that's actually worthy of paying for each individual track.

I read all your responses after this post but I want to clarify something... you're in college so you must remember a time before the internet. Back when music lovers had no way of previewing albums but went to the record store and bought an album after hearing only 1 or 2 songs, and that's how they've done it for the first 80 some-odd years of widespread distributed commercial music. You're saying that it's unfair to hear the album before you buy it, yet millions of people have been doing that forever. No doubt you will buy an album and not like it... so quite your whining.

[Gator_2727]

How are ceo's destroying music and after you explain that, tell me how bands would last because most bands start with absolutly nothing and don't have the money to spread their music (touring, making albums)

Note: I don't like ceo's but i really don't think they are the main focus for music going in the wrong direction

[radiofriendly]

Its kinda sick and sad how unfortunate that is. It's a ridiculous suit and it's also pretty dissappointing that the "brilliant" minds who comment on these forums cant even swallow their pride enough to feign a comment of compassion. I feel bad for her because it sucks a lot and I know that it would feel good if I had people rallying around me for something as stupid as this. At least pretend you want to help.

yeah so true. i should've said something myself. it's certainly really shallow to go calling her names. she hasn't done anything a lot of us haven't :insert token religious reference: that's why she's asking for help. i don't agree with her, but there's no need to be jerks about it.

[littlejohn]

i pity the the stupid mall kids who put down like $15 average on cd's at that store. jesus christ. i hate mall music stores.
i know man it is such a rip off, i usually just pocket them and the just write it off as a loss, i know someone who works there and she said that it happens alot, i support the artist in lots of ways though i do buy shirts, and dvds, and reissues, and i go to almost all the shows that come to my town el paso, tx(nothing really comes here) the thing that pisses me off the most about hot topic, other than the 15.99 cds, is the fact that it is owned by the same people who own Abercrombie and fitch

[Cocky Caucasion]

The whole point of this argument is:

The RIAA is doing Gods work...punishing sinners who download music illegaly.
whoever downloads music is going to burn in the fiery depths of hell and the RIAA is going to see to it that they get a first class ticket down there.

Do you think people got into arguments back in the 80's when people started recording bands songs off of the radio with a cassette tape?
I can picture it now.
A kid walks into a group of people and he says "Hey guys, guess what I just did, I totally recorded the new Def Leppard song off the radio onto a cassette tape!!"
Then everyong gets angry at the boy and says "Dude, you fucking pirate. You should support the artist instead of recording their music off the radio onto your cassette! Asshole!"

Too bad we can't go back to the stone age where people actually bought their music.

[GAD_guy]

Too bad we can't go back to the stone age where people actually bought their music.

too bad we can't go back to the stone age when people only listened to what they heard on the radio. oh wait no that sucked. downloading has opened so many people's eyes to music that would never be heard on the radio or played on mtv. without it there would be alot more brainwashed drones worshiping all that is trl. look at a band like fall out boy, who would personally attest to the fact that file-sharing is one of the biggest reasons they got anywhere close to where they are now.

[Cocky Caucasion]

i was being sarcastic.
I agree with everything you just said though.

[GAD_guy]

i was being sarcastic.
I agree with everything you just said though.

yeah, right after i wrote it i realized you were kidding. i knew the rest was a joke but i took that last sentance seriously for some reason. my bad.

[TheWordsmith]

it hurts both, its one less sale for the artist and label, and a lost product for the store. christ someday you kids will wakeup when you have to work to put food on your tabel instead of mommy and daddy paying for everything and maybe you'll run your own company like myself and understand how fucked and selfish you are



yea thats the other thing. fucking EVERY college campus around the country has been warning students of this risk. i've been outta school for a few years, so i missed it, but my friend who still goes to Pitt has had several memo's and shit posted aroudn the dorms warning the students about illlegal file sharing. tough shit.


you speak truth. i feel bad for her, but at Pitt i can remember all the darn signs. just buy the music, it's the cool thing to do

[KetchupMan36]

i think the problem here is that people dont understand that we live in a capitalistic society and not communist russia. hence the reason why you have to pay for CDs.

[IcedOpethBlind]

i know man it is such a rip off, i usually just pocket them and the just write it off as a loss, i know someone who works there and she said that it happens alot, i support the artist in lots of ways though i do buy shirts, and dvds, and reissues, and i go to almost all the shows that come to my town el paso, tx(nothing really comes here) the thing that pisses me off the most about hot topic, other than the 15.99 cds, is the fact that it is owned by the same people who own Abercrombie and fitch

wow, no shit. interesting...... (regarding the ownership of the two stores)

[heydrewhi]

if the RIAA came to my door, i'd just put in my other harddrive and boot in ME

so i look like a total idiot

[littlejohn]

wow, no shit. interesting...... (regarding the ownership of the two stores)
yeah, they have the teen market dominated with the "preppies" and then the "rockers" they also own afterthoughts or clairs to cover the "girly girls" (slade)

[GAD_guy]

yeah, they have the teen market dominated with the "preppies" and then the "rockers" they also own afterthoughts or clairs to cover the "girly girls" (slade)

is that really a proven fact that abercrombie owns hot topic or just a rumor? becuase i have also heard that it is owned bv gap by more than one person. it seems logical but i don't knhow how much truth is behind it, unless you know something i don't know.
hot topic is complete shit and a total contradiction of itself either way though.

[jagseroni]

No, if you own the CD - you can have a digital copy of it.

This relates to something that has sparked my curiosity recently....

I recently purchased the new Acceptance album and, as I do with all CDs I buy, I attempted to store it on my computer. I realized they have some protection thing on there that won't allow me to store the songs as MP3s. I can only rip it to my computer as an .WMA file, which won't work with iTunes... My question is, since I have bought the album, and, as previously stated, am allowed to have a digital copy of it, can I download the album in order to store it on my computer as MP3s?
:huh:

[christianP]

wow, no shit. interesting...... (regarding the ownership of the two stores)

You'd be amazed. The same corporation owns Abercrombie, AnF Kids, Hollister, Hot Topic, The Gap, and I think American Eagle...along with a whole bunch of other stores. They actually profit from kids hating each other and sticking to their own trends/lifestyles that are represented by their 'individual' stores, when in reality the profits are all goin to the same people.

I'm not gonna act like I haven't been through that though, I actually used to work at a Hollister 2 years ago and remember seeing the sheer dumb-assness of that store, which is like a new attempt at trying to create scenester cool kids (They reduce the price of what are basically abercrombie clothes slightly, and sell popular alt rock/emo cd's by the registers to essentially create kids who wear Hollister and listen to Taking Back Sunday, Finch, etc. These days they're all about pushing Fall Out Boy. Nothing against these bands I just hate this company, the corporate office literally determines the playlist of what Hollister employees are supposed to like). It's ingenious business-wise, as soulless at it seems. But yeah, look into sometime, you'll be surprised at who owns what. Another real life example: Did you know McDonalds owns Chipotle? An enterprise that markets itself completely on the freshness of quality of its food, controlled by the same people who give you hamburgers cooked under a hot lamp.

Anyway, if you want to support non-major companies, then buy things from independent retailers online or from artists on their online stores or at shows.

[sparksfly]

is that really a proven fact that abercrombie owns hot topic or just a rumor? becuase i have also heard that it is owned bv gap by more than one person. it seems logical but i don't knhow how much truth is behind it, unless you know something i don't know.
hot topic is complete shit and a total contradiction of itself either way though.

according the a&f website:
"Abercrombie & Fitch Co. is a leading specialty retailer encompassing four concepts - Abercrombie & Fitch, abercrombie, Hollister Co., and RUEHL."
(bytheway - abercrombie is a&f kids)

according to the hot topic website:
"Hot Topic, Inc. operates two distinct specialty retail concepts: Hot Topic and Torrid."


by the way, mass media isn't any better. everything is run by one of five companies. GE, viacom, disney, time warner, and newscorp (aka fox). here in philadelphia there are two main papers. the inquirer and the dailynews. they're owned by the same person who also owns newspapers across the country.

[onto le cabaret]

you knew the responsibilities attached, panhandle eslewhere

p.s. saying you download illegally here is very much not enough proof for a lable to sick a lawyer after you

[GAD_guy]

according the a&f website:
"Abercrombie & Fitch Co. is a leading specialty retailer encompassing four concepts - Abercrombie & Fitch, abercrombie, Hollister Co., and RUEHL."
(bytheway - abercrombie is a&f kids)

according to the hot topic website:
"Hot Topic, Inc. operates two distinct specialty retail concepts: Hot Topic and Torrid."

so that means no?

[christianP]

according the a&f website:
"Abercrombie & Fitch Co. is a leading specialty retailer encompassing four concepts - Abercrombie & Fitch, abercrombie, Hollister Co., and RUEHL."
(bytheway - abercrombie is a&f kids)

according to the hot topic website:
"Hot Topic, Inc. operates two distinct specialty retail concepts: Hot Topic and Torrid."

AnF encompasses those concepts, a business of sorts owns them however which owns the other stores. This is at least what the corporate people who would come in told us.

[GAD_guy]

You'd be amazed. The same corporation owns Abercrombie, AnF Kids, Hollister, Hot Topic, The Gap, and I think American Eagle...along with a whole bunch of other stores. They actually profit from kids hating each other and sticking to their own trends/lifestyles that are represented by their 'individual' stores, when in reality the profits are all goin to the same people.

I'm not gonna act like I haven't been through that though, I actually used to work at a Hollister 2 years ago and remember seeing the sheer dumb-assness of that store, which is like a new attempt at trying to create scenester cool kids (They reduce the price of what are basically abercrombie clothes slightly, and sell popular alt rock/emo cd's by the registers to essentially create kids who wear Hollister and listen to Taking Back Sunday, Finch, etc. These days they're all about pushing Fall Out Boy. Nothing against these bands I just hate this company, the corporate office literally determines the playlist of what Hollister employees are supposed to like). It's ingenious business-wise, as soulless at it seems. But yeah, look into sometime, you'll be surprised at who owns what. Another real life example: Did you know McDonalds owns Chipotle? An enterprise that markets itself completely on the freshness of quality of its food, controlled by the same people who give you hamburgers cooked under a hot lamp.

Anyway, if you want to support non-major companies, then buy things from independent retailers online or from artists on their online stores or at shows.


yep. i hate mass-ownership and cinergy. actual conversation i had last night:

friend: "i heard addidas is going to be selling the shoes from life aquatic"
me: "hell yeah that's awesome"
other friend: "yeah that's cinergy for ya, smart idea"
me: "oh god you just totally ruined it for me"

[elemenohpe]

Fact: When you share on a client such as i2hub, Kazaa, etc, you are leaving your computer WIDE OPEN to anyone -- RIAA, hackers, my mother, anyone. You wouldn't stand in the middle of Times Square with a giant poster and blinking lights that says HEROIN FOR SALE. It's far too easy to get caught. If you're going to share music, send it to your friends. If you bought the new 50 Cent CD, rip it to your computer, and then send it to your gangsta friend via AIM, the RIAA won't know--they can't know--they're not a government authority monitoring internet traffic!

AIM is operated by America Online. AOL is now part of Time Warner since their recent merge. Time Warner also owns Warner Bros (suprise suprise). Which has it's own label (Warner Bros. Records) and also owns Reprise Records, Nonesuch Records, WBR Nashville, WB Jazz, Maverick Records, Word Records, and Sire Records.

Of course Warner Bros Records is a member of the RIAA along with all of their companies. If the RIAA really feels that AIM is a threat to the music industry you can bet your ass they will start to monitor and sue people who use it (and it's convenient "Get File" feature).

I used to have a Get File server but realized shortly after the passing of this law (http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d109:s.00167:) which allows me to be sued and charged for each SONG that I make available before release that I was leaving myself open to AOL, Time Warner, and the rest of the RIAA.

I'm not the most educated person and I don't know the "industry" as well as some folks either but I can put 2 and 2 together. And that spells trouble 4 AIM users. (lame puns are awesome).

[sparksfly]

AnF encompasses those concepts, a business of sorts owns them however which owns the other stores. This is at least what the corporate people who would come in told us.

shrug i was just seeing what the websites said. i think we all knew that a&f owned hollister though. haha.

then theres like express, express for men, victoria's secret, and bath n body works are all owned by the same people.

[RockVocalPower]

It is often times a crapshoot, but the result can be very rewarding. I remember picking up a CD called "Audioboxer" by a band I had never heard of, only because I heard someone say their name on the radio...and it was fantastic. Needless to say Something Corporate is still one of my favorites.

So going in blind isn't always a bad thing.

[T92]

www.methlabs.org (http://www.methlabs.org)

Peer Guardian owns but I still don't share ;)

[girl like that]

This relates to something that has sparked my curiosity recently....

I recently purchased the new Acceptance album and, as I do with all CDs I buy, I attempted to store it on my computer. I realized they have some protection thing on there that won't allow me to store the songs as MP3s. I can only rip it to my computer as an .WMA file, which won't work with iTunes... My question is, since I have bought the album, and, as previously stated, am allowed to have a digital copy of it, can I download the album in order to store it on my computer as MP3s?
:huh:


Just download an audio converter that converts .wma's to MP3's.

[bleedingemo]

as usual, i'm not really scared..

[ThisIsSoBrandNw]

My feeling on downloading music is.....It is not right to do, however since the internet has come around, it has opened the door for so many more bands to get music out there. With that, their are so many great bands out there, that the average person would never have enough money to buy every single album they would like to. Also if it wasnt for downloading, many of the bands that are big now would not be half as big, because wether you buy the cd or no you have an opinion on the music, and if you like it you'll go to the show. (This is just an example) There are prolly thousands and thousands of kids who just downloaded Maroon 5 and burned it to a cd, but most of the kids who did that end up going to the show later on. I do agree you should buy the cd so the bands can keep touring and stay on a label, but at the same time many of the bands would not be around and big at all if it werent for downloading. I tend to buy almost every cd when it comes out, even if I have it. Theres a difference on downloading a couple cds and not buying them or just simply downloading everything. I believe that the RIAA is very bad about how a kid who downloads maybe a couple cds and doesnt buy them can get in the same amount of trouble as someone who doesnt buy any at all. For someone who buys the cds they like, and gets in trouble for maybe on, i have much sympathy for, like Jason said, someone who downloads everything and doesnt buy it at all and spends there money on other shit, i have no sympathy for. Again this is just my personal view on all of this.

[jagseroni]

Just download an audio converter that converts .wma's to MP3's.

I've tried that - I think the files are "protected" with those programs too.

[IcedOpethBlind]

It is often times a crapshoot, but the result can be very rewarding. I remember picking up a CD called "Audioboxer" by a band I had never heard of, only because I heard someone say their name on the radio...and it was fantastic. Needless to say Something Corporate is still one of my favorites.

So going in blind isn't always a bad thing.

yeah. it's actually like a fun hobby of sorts to go buy a record without having the knowledge of a single note on the record. I've done this a few times and been rewarded, once way back w/ Acceptance (I bought their EP on a whim) and buying Pavement's reissue of Crooked Rain Crooked Rain because it was at such a great price for a double-disc set @ Best Buy. plus it had a really nice booklet to accompany. Pavement have turned me on to other indie acts as well.

[January1979]

a martyr wouldn't get people to die for them.

Ha, thought I was the only one who noticed that.

[King Caesar]

sharing is caring
it can get you sued
mmmm juicy fruit

[nerogtr]

go buy the cd's. thanks for NOT supporting the artists. even if you did buy the cd's, the people you are sharing your shit with AREN'T so the artists you love so much are getting fucked. you are no martyr, you got caught fucking over artists and bands. if you got caught uploading like a song or two, that really sucks. but if you got caught uploading mass amounts of music, then shame on you. maybe i'm being harsh but I'm going to college for music and it really annoys me to watch my friends and even fellow musicians fucking the industry that i am trying so hard to succeed in. it's one thing if an artist makes a song available for download or for streaming on the web for promotional purposes, but sharing every cd you own or downloading mass amounts of music illegally is not only illegal, its terribly immoral. there is a ton of work that goes into the production of an album, and all the players deserve their share (especially artists on independent or smaller labels). peace.

[lovemetal24]

i played in a band called brand new disaster on tribunal records, and i loved that people downloaded our record, because it help to spread the word of the band

[girl like that]

For all of you who are telling people to have compassion for this girl... you should probably think twice. Do you also expect us to have compassion for other people who deliberetly do illegal activities and then want people to feel sorry for them? No, I didn't think so.

[westsidas2000]

haha start a friend's network and exchange cd's to upload to ur pc. it's like dling 20 cd's for the price of one. just don't use file sharing. RIAA can't do shit! I'm a genius!!!!!!! ya but i'm not really.

[nerogtr]

unless the band doesn't mind you having their shit for free, just buy the damn cd. if your an avid enough music supporter to spend so much time on these forums, you should buy the cd's of the artists you are talking about online. my band gives alot of our shit away free (it can all be downloaded online and we give away cd's at shows) just to help promote, but we aren't making any money off of our music. some bands are living off of their music and depend on their fans to support them so they can eat and live.

i think its funny how some people who are supporting stealing music have about 50000000000000000 scene points and me....i have -21117. maybe i'm just a dick hahaha. w/e, peace on earth, music is the reason for this site, support the scene, buy cd's.

[beer]

haha... now you will be just as poor as the bands you stole music from!
have fun!

[Cottage Cheese]

Why don't we go back to the old fashion way of one person buying the CD, burning it to 20 CD-R's and giving it to 20 of your friends! The RIAA can't catch you that way!

[beer]

I'm in a band and we're about to put out an EP, and if people want to buy it and support us then they can. If not, they can download all the songs off our site. It's all about people hearing the music.

The Starting Line took the high road once their album got leaked and put it up for streaming on purevolume. Other bands, like Copeland took a really bad attitude towards it. I remember a post on their site about Anberlin's new record which said "You shouldn't HAVE to hear any songs before you go out and buy it, but if you REALLY need to, then you can go to their purevolume and stream a song." Bands need to realize who they're alienating and targeting -- the very people who put food in their bellies. Yes, downloading is wrong. But it's not going to stop, no matter what the RIAA does. Sad but true.

Support the bands you like,


how do bands get food in thier bellies from kids stealing thier album?

[thetunks]

I figure the best way of supporting you favorite band is going to the shows, buying t-shirts, posters etc. I've heard quite a few arguments (Im not sure where but I know Ive been told/heard this) that the money a band makes of it's CD sales is negligable. The RIAA is the record company's attack dog, theyre no friend to the artists.

[Craftsy21]

I read all your responses after this post but I want to clarify something... you're in college so you must remember a time before the internet. Back when music lovers had no way of previewing albums but went to the record store and bought an album after hearing only 1 or 2 songs, and that's how they've done it for the first 80 some-odd years of widespread distributed commercial music. You're saying that it's unfair to hear the album before you buy it, yet millions of people have been doing that forever. No doubt you will buy an album and not like it... so quite your whining.


You read all my responses but completely missed every point in them - congrats. The point is, if you can follow, we are at a point with technology right now that we no longer have to continue living in the stone age of music. We hardly do anything the same way we did "80 some-odd years" ago.. we've evolved as a society, we do things better now - more efficiently. Apparently you think that's a bad thing?

Think about all the new bands you've discovered through the use of the internet... do you not see any possibilities for new means of distribution and sales due to the internet? Why continue guessing what you're going to get if you can KNOW? Why keep buying the same shitty cd packages they've been putting out for 10 years now... demand better! The fans control the market, and we're proving it by no longer paying those rape prices for a shitty album.

Some of you guys see everthing in black and white... "downloading = no... buying = yes"... no questions asked... Enjoy your lives. :headshake

[cht9989]

This relates to something that has sparked my curiosity recently....

I recently purchased the new Acceptance album and, as I do with all CDs I buy, I attempted to store it on my computer. I realized they have some protection thing on there that won't allow me to store the songs as MP3s. I can only rip it to my computer as an .WMA file, which won't work with iTunes... My question is, since I have bought the album, and, as previously stated, am allowed to have a digital copy of it, can I download the album in order to store it on my computer as MP3s?

you can use WMAs w/ iTunes they'll just transfer them to they're AAC files or w/e.

[BrandNizzle]

here i am with post 209 in this thread. proceed.

[Cottage Cheese]

You read all my responses but completely missed every point in them - congrats. The point is, if you can follow, we are at a point with technology right now that we no longer have to continue living in the stone age of music. We hardly do anything the same way we did "80 some-odd years" ago.. we've evolved as a society, we do things better now - more efficiently. Apparently you think that's a bad thing?

Think about all the new bands you've discovered through the use of the internet... do you not see any possibilities for new means of distribution and sales due to the internet? Why continue guessing what you're going to get if you can KNOW? Why keep buying the same shitty cd packages they've been putting out for 10 years now... demand better! The fans control the market, and we're proving it by no longer paying those rape prices for a shitty album.

Some of you guys see everthing in black and white... "downloading = no... buying = yes"... no questions asked... Enjoy your lives. :headshake

but your original comment sounded as though you deserve to know what you are gonna get before you buy. yes, I have come across many many bands that I now love due to the internet, but my point was that you seem to think bands and labels owe it to you to hear their album free of charge and let you decide if you want it.

[1000shadesofred]

hey derrick rust why dont u have some fuckin compassion... i wish u got caught asshole

[HoboAdam]

http://www.rpi.edu/AFS/home/52/lattea/public_html/

[Dob]

as the RIAA sits in the back saying ::OWNED!:: nice..

[beer]

I figure the best way of supporting you favorite band is going to the shows, buying t-shirts, posters etc. I've heard quite a few arguments (Im not sure where but I know Ive been told/heard this) that the money a band makes of it's CD sales is negligable. The RIAA is the record company's attack dog, theyre no friend to the artists.

the money made from cd sales is only negligable because no one buys cds anymore.

labels and bands are spending more of thier money to give you that little fucking bit of satisfaction in getting more for your precious ten bucks.
the reason you see these special releases with extra songs, dvd's, free shirts, limited edition expensive packaging is to get you to buy it! same reason first week cd's at best buy, circuit city, tower, etc etc. is often only $7.99-$9.99... is for you! bands and labels try to get you all that cool shit and for as cheep as possible.

sometimes it works, sometimes it doesnt. and thats why most of your indie labels have given part of thier label to a major label for financial backing.
it all costs money! i swear! underoath isnt at the front of the isle at best buy cuz best buy totally loves that band... its because tooth and nail sent best buy a $5000+ dollar check for that month.

only in music do people think they have the right to steal.
go out to eat at a restraunt and you skip out on the bill... have fun in jail
steal from a store, have fun in jail

whatever, bottom line is, that if its good enough to listen to its good enough to buy.

[sweetmik]

No. Stop SHARING music. Problem solved.

what the hell do you think purevolume is? That's how people find out about bands. SHARING WITH EACH OTHER. I don't know where the hell i'd be without others turning me onto new things.

[Riki]

sucks for you.

Come on... Yes she shouldnt have been sharing illegal music... But how many of us do? Imagine you were in her position and found yourself with a huge legal bill and no way to pay it. If you cant afford to send her your cash at least send her some positive feelings, and some compassion.

As for the people who were saying you should only download.....How would you be able to download if people like here were not uploading?

I figure the best way of supporting you favorite band is going to the shows, buying t-shirts, posters etc. I've heard quite a few arguments (Im not sure where but I know Ive been told/heard this) that the money a band makes of it's CD sales is negligable. The RIAA is the record company's attack dog, theyre no friend to the artists.

Totally agree...

I used to run a small indie label, although we were a non profit venture, we did a lot of research including some internships to bigger labels. And the ammount a band makes from the CD is so small its untrue....

I would suggest you decide how many CDs your willing to buy in the year, then buy them from bands that really deserve it, if possible on the smaller labels that really need your support.

And if a band tours near you, go see them, and buy a tshirt, if they made a record that you love, its probobly given so much towards your life, it only seems fair to put a little back....

[atticusfinch]

The whole point of this argument is:

The RIAA is doing Gods work...punishing sinners who download music illegaly.
whoever downloads music is going to burn in the fiery depths of hell and the RIAA is going to see to it that they get a first class ticket down there.

Do you think people got into arguments back in the 80's when people started recording bands songs off of the radio with a cassette tape?
I can picture it now.
A kid walks into a group of people and he says "Hey guys, guess what I just did, I totally recorded the new Def Leppard song off the radio onto a cassette tape!!"
Then everyong gets angry at the boy and says "Dude, you fucking pirate. You should support the artist instead of recording their music off the radio onto your cassette! Asshole!"

Too bad we can't go back to the stone age where people actually bought their music.
Dude, you're a fucking moron.

[Alex Djaferis]

You do know that labels check this website, and if they see you saying you're downloading their music - it really is simply a call to a lawyer and they'll have your contact information.

Problem solved: buy everything you download.

yeah i buy everything i download. unless what i downloaded was crap, then i delete it :D

[colourofstef]

like, why doesnt everyone start sharing .wav files instead!! I think there's a loophole here!


|Disclaimer| if this gets you sued, its not my fault.

[CalamityRecords]

If thats the case then why don't they put the responsiblity on the people who recieve these promos??

because a label will send out something in the region of 200-500 advance copies/promos and thus to find the few people that uploaded it would be a hard task. Also, like hte person said below, if it was someone at a top music magazine/webzine then they wouldnt want to accuse them in case they dont review anything in future and that will harm them. It all depends really, this wouldnt happen with a major because everyone wants to review their stuff.

[thedudeabides]

um, best of luck and all, but if i'm living off of pasta and peanut butter/jelly sandwiches and can't afford to run my air conditioning in the summer in miami and you can afford to buy abercrombie shirts, i'm not going to donate money because you downloaded eminem songs and got caught.

[beer]

because a label will send out something in the region of 200-500 advance copies/promos and thus to find the few people that uploaded it would be a hard task. Also, like hte person said below, if it was someone at a top music magazine/webzine then they wouldnt want to accuse them in case they dont review anything in future and that will harm them. It all depends really, this wouldnt happen with a major because everyone wants to review their stuff.


haha...that was until water-marked cds came out.
the label has a list of people that are going to get an advance copy/promo go on a list.
each cd that comes out has a specific code written onto the disk and the label knows who they sent each one to. so as soon as someone throws one online, it has that code tagged on each song. its really too easy.
the label might call you first and ask you if you realize how much money you just cost the label in cd sales and promotion and what drugs you were on to be that stupid.
its only a matter of time before someone gets thier ass sued straight from the label and it will be funny. sorry, but its true.
if a major label doesnt do it first, i got money that it will be victory records that sues the first person.

[nerogtr]

what the hell do you think purevolume is? That's how people find out about bands. SHARING WITH EACH OTHER. I don't know where the hell i'd be without others turning me onto new things.


the music on purevolume is there with the band/label's consent. most bands dont put their whole album up, and if they do it is for promotional reasons. a band may or may not allow listeners to actually download the song (many artists only allow a low quality stream). the idea is that if the person listens to the band, and likes what they hear they will go out and BUY (not steal) the cd so they can enjoy the full quality album and all the players in producing the cd will receive their share of the profits. I agree, the internet is an important way to discover new acts and thats why purevolume exists, but that doesn't justify downloading whole albums or even a few songs and never buying the cd.

[InsanityCubed]

So hold on, let me get this straight. Because I'm a student and all my money goes to paying bills and other things like, um, eating, I don't have the right to listen to the music of my choice? I buy CDs when I get the chance and have the disposable income, but sadly those times are fairly rare. The whole CD issue will be over in a few years anyways when all music is purchased online in digital formats and then transferred to various playing devices. Instead of going through the whole "downloading is stealing" vs. "downloading is okay" debate, how about some solutions?

Many websites now give free access to magazine articles or streaming music, all paid for by advertising. As much as I hate all the advertising we're subjected to, I think it's the lesser of two evils when compared to limiting the access of music to those who can afford it. Why not go a step further than streaming music? I would propose that all music should be free to download from a label site. Perhaps one would pay a yearly fee to access the site. Then it would all be driven by advertising revenue, if a band gets 10% of the downloads off the label's site, then it gets 10% of the advertising pie. Even put 5 second ads at the start of songs (as much as that would suck ), just so the MUSIC can reach as many people as possible, regardless of their financial status. Just a simple suggestion, since ideas are much better than pissing contests. Feel free to jump all over my back, I wouldn't expect anything less from this site.

[sayanything]

I'm in a band and we're about to put out an EP, and if people want to buy it and support us then they can. If not, they can download all the songs off our site. It's all about people hearing the music.

The Starting Line took the high road once their album got leaked and put it up for streaming on purevolume. Other bands, like Copeland took a really bad attitude towards it. I remember a post on their site about Anberlin's new record which said "You shouldn't HAVE to hear any songs before you go out and buy it, but if you REALLY need to, then you can go to their purevolume and stream a song." Bands need to realize who they're alienating and targeting -- the very people who put food in their bellies. Yes, downloading is wrong. But it's not going to stop, no matter what the RIAA does. Sad but true.

Support the bands you like,


well put. and i'm sure the majority of people on here criticizing this girl from their high horse (and the anonymity of a message board) are "guilty" of downloading music as they write their stupid insults. yes it is nice to buy the music, but really, can all of you talk? self-appointed judges judge more than they have sold.

[beer]

So hold on, let me get this straight. Because I'm a student and all my money goes to paying bills and other things like, um, eating, I don't have the right to listen to the music of my choice? I buy CDs when I get the chance and have the disposable income, but sadly those times are fairly rare. The whole CD issue will be over in a few years anyways when all music is purchased online in digital formats and then transferred to various playing devices. Instead of going through the whole "downloading is stealing" vs. "downloading is okay" debate, how about some solutions?

Many websites now give free access to magazine articles or streaming music, all paid for by advertising. As much as I hate all the advertising we're subjected to, I think it's the lesser of two evils when compared to limiting the access of music to those who can afford it. Why not go a step further than streaming music? I would propose that all music should be free to download from a label site. Perhaps one would pay a yearly fee to access the site. Then it would all be driven by advertising revenue, if a band gets 10% of the downloads off the label's site, then it gets 10% of the advertising pie. Even put 5 second ads at the start of songs (as much as that would suck ), just so the MUSIC can reach as many people as possible, regardless of their financial status. Just a simple suggestion, since ideas are much better than pissing contests. Feel free to jump all over my back, I wouldn't expect anything less from this site.

im not going to jump all ove r your back, but downloading isnt like that. downloading is the loop hole to not pay the bands at all.

[nerogtr]

if the downloads are payed for by advertising, or the download is free for promotional reasons then the band and/or label have given you the legal right to listen to the song without paying. thats is VERY different than going onto a college server and downloading full albums or even just a few songs. That kind of activity occurs without the artist's consent and is stealing. There are some exceptions where some artists have been quoted saying they enourage their fans to download their music, but that is a rarity. Long story short, this thread isn't about whether its ok to listen to free streaming music online, its about some random girl who uploaded albums to a server for other people to download illegally. That is wrong. period.

[foreverLOUD]

yeah sorry but why would people want to donate money to you ... I can guarantee 1/2 the ppl on this site work in the music industry ... being a music store or an artist themselves. I have worked in music stores since 98 & I personally have seen the major change since downloading became poplular. CD's are changing prices ... more expensive b/c they have to make money somehow now ... I sure as hell get paid less.

Yeah downloading is awesome b/c bands get heard more, but it's not cool to not pay them for what they do for a living. It's a chain reaction ... you don't pay for music ... stores don't get money ... the employees don't get paid ... the bands label doesn't get money & then ... the band doesn't get money.

Point is ... why should we give you money to get your ass out of trouble ... when there are struggling band members driving coast to coast with their own hard earned money (or lack there of) to give you music to hear ... Hope you learned your lesson.

I want to buy a new computer but I'm not going to go to my friends house & steal theirs since I don't have the money right now. Instead I am waiting until I do have the money ... Music is a lot of peoples lives, but we deal with what we can.

[nerogtr]

yeah sorry but why would people want to donate money to you ... I can guarantee 1/2 the ppl on this site work in the music industry ... being a music store or an artist themselves. I have worked in music stores since 98 & I personally have seen the major change since downloading became poplular. CD's are changing prices ... more expensive b/c they have to make money somehow now ... I sure as hell get paid less.

Yeah downloading is awesome b/c bands get heard more, but it's not cool to not pay them for what they do for a living. It's a chain reaction ... you don't pay for music ... stores don't get money ... the employees don't get paid ... the bands label doesn't get money & then ... the band doesn't get money.

Point is ... why should we give you money to get your ass out of trouble ... when there are struggling band members driving coast to coast with their own hard earned money (or lack there of) to give you music to hear ... Hope you learned your lesson.

I want to buy a new computer but I'm not going to go to my friends house & steal theirs since I don't have the money right now. Instead I am waiting until I do have the money ... Music is a lot of peoples lives, but we deal with what we can.

true dude. well said. by not buying music legally, people are hurting every aspect of the music industry, not just the label. people tell me all the time "oh i dont care about downloading, i'll go support the band by seeing them live". some make money touring, but most dont. alot of artists barely break even with their tour expenses. the whole point of a tour is to support and promote whatever cd they have coming out or have just released.

[AtlanticEast247]

So if you stop sharing your files over whatever p2p service you use are you safe?

you have the best sig ever
POTATOES!