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February 07, 2007
Steve Jobs & DRM
Fascinating tidbit over on Engadget - Steve Jobs on DRM: let's get rid of it. Here's a snippet:
"Why would the big four music companies [ever] agree to let Apple and others distribute their music without using DRM systems to protect it? The simplest answer is because DRMs haven't worked, and may never work, to halt music piracy. ... Much of the concern over DRM systems has arisen in European countries. Perhaps those unhappy with the current situation should redirect their energies towards persuading the music companies to sell their music DRM-free. ... Convincing them to license their music to Apple and others DRM-free will create a truly interoperable music marketplace. Apple will embrace this wholeheartedly."
DRM doesn't stop piracy, and while things exist in the digital domain, it's virtually impossible to stop the copying of those things. If the value of the music is such that it doesn't compel someone to buy it in the first place, then you're probably looking at a prime target for piracy. I buy plenty of albums, but the way I discover new music is through last.fm, public radio, and pirate copies from friends. All those things are free, and I certainly don't think that I would purchase as much music as I do, or even be as interested as I am in music.
Even just as recently as yesterday's poster, I came across HomeSkillet records who have a refreshing take on music piracy:
There is a general assumption around corporate music that stealing music is bad. We disagree, in fact we encourage it.
However, this does not mean we will put out albums in the traditional sense and not ask for money.
Studio time is an investment. If we invest in studio time, then we ask for you, the fan, to invest in us. This way, we will stick around.
Most of the time our music will be recorded over computers. About half of which will be uploaded to this site. This music will be free, and we encourage people to download and share.
HomeSkillet Records encourages stealing music. However, we also encourage donations. If a person was so obliged, we are glad to accept.
HomeSkillet is to be applauded. Visit their site, check out some tracks, and if you like it, please support them.
DRM harries consumers, espescially now that you can download and have access to illegitimate versions which are hassle free so easily, big music isn't doing a whole lot to protect and promote more sales. It's all so obvious to everyone who actually listens to music. The way to protect the music industry is not to harangue those who support it by lumbering them with DRM.
Engadget - Steve Jobs on DRM: let's get rid of it. & HomeSkillet Records
Posted by funnelbc at February 7, 2007 07:30 AM
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