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Music and copyrights in the digital age – the artist’s POV

Posted by Mark on Saturday, March 22nd, 2008. Filed under Digital lifestyle, Music, Social networks.

Here’s a compelling argument from artist and songwriter Billy Bragg. Seems the Bebo purchase by AOL got him to thinking someone else – namely, artists – should be included in the payout.

“Social-networking sites like Bebo argue that they have no money to distribute — their value is their membership. Well, last week [Bebo founder] Michael Birch realized the value of his membership. I’m sure he’ll be rewarding those technicians and accountants who helped him achieve this success. Perhaps he should also consider the contribution of his artists.”

Published in the NY Times.

UPDATE: I caught this song embedded on Billy Bragg’s site. “I don’t want to change the world. I’m not looking for a new England. I’m just looking for another girl.” With Kate Nash. Pretty nice.

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