Gerry wrote:When I studied music we had people coming in all the time to talk about the industry. I also had dealings (not business) with a guy who ran a jazz/blues record label. He now runs festivals. PM me if you want to know who (I doubt you'll ever have heard of him). Doesn't make me an expert, but it was an eye opener.
You're right. You are not an expert. On the other hand, I was a member of numerous bands over the years, some of which were on smaller independant labels (such as Anthem), and several which were on major labels (such as A&M). I've also toured all over North America several times playing venues large and small. I also worked for the LARGEST record company on the planet (Universal Music) for over six years. Compared to you, I AM an expert, so don't try to educate me on how all of this works.
Stealing music is hurting musicians, and left unabated, music will suffer even more (hard to imagine it being worse than it is now). Telling musicians to print and sell t-shirts in order to make a living is insulting to say the least.