how do record companies survive against free downloadable music?

Question

I just discovered limewire and I can't understand why anyone would go out and buy a CD with most of the music available for free on the internet

Answer 1

I havent heard of limewire before, but as far as I know the only free music downloads not available directly from the artist or record companie arent really free or are illegal. Remember the Napster thing a few years ago (before they started charging they were being sued by the artists and record companies)?

One way that some download sites claim that they are free is through advertisements, but they aren't really legal for the consumer (KaZaA is an example).

Sometimes a record company may release a single of an artist for free in hopes that it will generate buzz and inspire more people to purchase the whole album to gain access to the other songs.

Answer 2

They dont survive, and thats the problem.
Tower Records is filing for bankruptcy for the 2nd time in 2 years.
Limewire sucks by the way, and so do the rest of the websites for music downloads. Some moron at my office used Limewire and it caused a virus on the whole office server that caused a crash.
THATS why i go out and but CDs.

Answer 3

Computers have changed the mode of production for many things that are termed "intellectual property." It is now not necessary to be a holder of a large amount of capital in order to publish and/or distribute much of this material (music, books, . . .).

This is part of the change that comes with technology. When changes displace workers that is enough of an explanation they are told that they just have to learn to be more flexible and be willing to go where the opportunities are, but it's interesting that when technological change displaces industry and business there is often an attempt to get redress through the courts and through legislation and regulation (three things that business and industry usually say they are against, when it is used to limit them).

I think that in the near future, if it isn't already happening, we will also see a different form of social relation arise out of this emerging new post-capitalist globalisation. It will likely tend to be antipathic to nationalism and militarism and will therefore be in conflict with the capitalist mode of globalisation.

Answer 4

If they save the money they are using in chasing kids or someone who dl just a few songs, and invest them into ie. advertising and improving their online shop they might survive. But their reputation is really harmed because of the hunt of the majority of the citizens. They are trying but they are far from their yet.
I think they will manage one day. But I think many small companies wont make it.

Answer 5

Because they charge stupid prices and they still sell millions.

If I download an album that's great.. I'll buy it anyway just to have the original with the real case and booklet etc...