Pirates of the Internet

Before this blog, I genuinely knew nothing about Internet piracy or how the process went about. Of course I knew it existed; I don't live under a rock, but I am still quite naive to the topic. My friend once tried to explain to me that there was a way to download music for free onto the computer. This was before I was even remotely interested in a music player/Ipod...thing. I now own a Zune (which does not seem to be incredibly popular, but it does its job by playing music), and I still would not know how to go about with the illegal reproduction of any music. My friend tried to show me and I don't remember how he explained it, but it did not sound like it was a good thing. Of course, it would appeal to most people. Free music? OF COURSE! I thought, "How does that benefit the artist or the company?" In reality, it doesn't benefit them, and yet at the same time, I think it really can (hear me out, I'll get to it).

According to wisegeek.com, "Internet piracy is the unlawful reproduction and/or distribution of any copyrighted digital file that can change hands over the Internet. This can be done with music files, videos and movies, e-books, software, and other materials."

While the piracy really is not fair to the artist, who put so much time, energy, and money into the production of their music, there is one positive result for the artist. Obviously, the consumer benefits the most due to free music, but the artist has a slight benefit, as well.

EXPOSURE.

There are so many lazy and naive people when it comes to choice of music. If they have to actually go to the store and search for it, sometimes it is just not worth it to them. When music is free, more people are willing to check out new genres and artists. This could easily lead to more fans who will be more motivated to go out and buy full CD's, if even needed, and attend concerts, etc. Also, more fans leads to more sponsorships by big name companies who will support the artist as they go on tour or make special appearances.

While I do not approve of or participate in internet piracy, I can definitely see where it can have some positive results. I do not see a method of stopping it becoming very effective, as there will always be intelligent computer savvy people to invent a new way of cheating the system. It is really up to the consumer. Either you respect the artist's energy and time, or your concern is only for yourself and saving money. It is a humanity issue. Almost always, people will naturally be concerned with themselves.