MUSIC INDUSTRY

Online music sharing with programs such as itunes has defintely changed the music industry. The ability to download music on the internet without a doubt is a big blow to record sales for musicians. When thinking about this topic I initially feel bad for the music industry and all of its hard working musicians because itunes, limewire and other music sharing programs have taken away from a big part of what the industry once was. Upon further examination however I think it is a good thing for the industry. This is because of the fact that it is much easier to access and listen to a particular musician or band's music via the internet. A consumer can listen to a song on the internet, decide if they like it and if so they can purchase the CD online, or at the store if they want to support the band that way. If they are just looking for some free music they of course can download the CD, but this may inspire them to go see a live show. While these music file sharing programs may call for a muscian to play more live shows we must ask, is this really a bad thing? Heaven forbid an artisit must do some touring to make bank. Millions upon millions of dollars are still just as available for musicians, they just may have to work a little more or get a little more creative to earn the big bucks. In an industry full of artistic expression how how is that?