Editor:
I am writing in response to the June 8 article, “Music downloading hurts local businesses, artists.”
It is not the downloading that hurts, it is the downloading without paying-which is known as stealing music-that debilitates music stores and musicians and hinders them from earning a living.
As a local musician, I have had many more sales through the Internet and digital downloading from sites such as www.cdbaby.com, which highlight independent artists, than I ever had from local stores or concerts.
I love being able to buy individual songs or works from sites. Not only do I get to choose from a huge selection, but I also don’t have to buy a whole “filler” recording.
The public needs to realize that, though many do it, downloading music without paying for it is stealing. You are a thief if you do this.
Come on, folks, is 99 cents too much to pay for a tune?
Lisa Verzella
Junior, Meteorology