I understand why downloading music for free online is illegal but here is why I believe it should be tolerated.
Downloading music illegally is a side-effect of the internet. The internet makes it too easy to obtain music for free and you cannot blame consumers for taking advantage of it. Sure, artists do not make as much profit through CD sales, but the internet has helped both up-and-coming artists and proven artists, more than it has hurt them.
A countless number of artists have blown up due to the internet. Personally I am not a big fan, but Soulja Boy is the perfect example of an artist who became successful through the internet. Before his catchy song (which became #1 in America) and his dance “Crank That” hit YouTube, Soulja Boy (who was only 17) was unknown in the music industry. Now, Soulja Boy is a commercially successful rapper who is a product of the internet.
The internet is the easiest way for artists to share their music, videos, and images and to expand their fan base. Even past artists, such as The Beatles or The Notorious B.I.G., would not have as big of a fan base right now if it were not for the internet. The internet is now the primary way artists reach out to consumers.
After all, it is the fans who decide what’s hot and what’s not.
88 million views!!
