By Michael Lanfield

What are your feelings towards the major record labels or even the independent labels of today?

Major record label simply want to make huge profits and squawk about people pirating music from the Internet or copying music so they can make even greater profits than ever. And independent labels are basically the same as the major record labels, as in they just want to make huge profits. In my opinion the only difference between major record labels versus independent labels is that the major labels advertise and get their messages across to thousands and hundreds of thousands of people through huge billboard advertising, TV and radio ads and independent labels usually markets freely which tends to reach very few people.

In the end, both parties want to incur huge profits.

Manufacturing audio CDs is relatively inexpensive. To manufacture audio CDs in Canada, the approximate cost is around $1.30 for each CD (for 1000 quantity) and major record labels usually purchase hundreds of thousands of copies and thus prices fall below $1.00 CND for each CD.

Why are the major record labels selling their music at $10, $15 or even $30? More people would buy CDs, if they were reasonably priced. These huge major recording labels would still make huge profits if the prices were to fall by half or even three quarters. And independent labels think the same. They usually price their music more than $10 CND.

Why do you thin so many people download music off the Internet?

Yes I agree with you too, the artist/producers/singers are the ones that do all the work. So actually they should get most of the levies (profits). But the point I am trying to make is that the record companies both major or independent are taking most of the profit and leave the customer and artist poor. Yes there are some big famous artists that do make a lot of money, and there should be none of that. Of course you need to survive, but not millions.

Just think about it. Would you go to a record store and buy a CD that cost 25-$30 USD or more? No, so why raise the prices?

That is just my point. Thanks!

[quote="Just think about it. Would you go to a record store and buy a CD that cost 25-$30 USD or more? No, so why raise the prices?[/quote]

Though yes Man. I've already bought some CD's at far more higher prices without any regrets. Because i wanted to make somebody or myself a very good present. That's important: your attitude! If you buy music like you watch TV, zapping from channel to channel, this will only distract you. But if you buy music like buying a good (and why not expensive?) pair of shoes, you know you can go far. Or with the same attitude of enjoying an exquisite dinner. If people can get more aware of their attitudes, they surely will buy more expensive products. But of course not all days! Anyway it would help/encourage the producers to push on and do very good quality works! And not just landing some "One Day Hit!". Where's the sense of it? Great musicians/composers of the past DID what they had to do. So today it's the same.

Of course i don't like it to see somebody chained to unpleasing conditions. I know big affirmed artists gain very often lots of money but on the other hand they are also stronger exposed to the market and public with all its ups and downs, negative criticism, misapprehensions, envy etc.

If i like something i buy it!
That's my point of view

I know a lot of people nowadays who can't afford to purchase expensive music or expensive cloths. They purchase cheaper brand, but still like to buy quality. Something that are inexpensive are still good quality. Not always but some things. Take Ambient New World for example. Good music from Ambraduna for free

YA!!!!!

Another thing is I did buy sometimes expensive clothes or shoes "brand name" and they broke faster then the cheaper shoes I bought. It just depends on what you buy. You can't say expensive is better or worse, but usually expensive is better.

There's this new evolution where you can see alot of artistst producers (including myself) selling their work themselves. Reasons You get 100% of the money that has been paid for your CD, or tape or vinyl. You choose how much promotion you make yourself. ...

Last year I managed to sell 150 copies of my Messierobjekten CD solely through self-promotion. (Must admit that I went on on sites like a madman) but it paid off. If I would have to choose a label. It would be an independent one because they have this air of exclusiveness on them. And I just don't like the mass-industry standard products of major labels, but hen again what is a major label?

My message do it yourself you're better off!

go have a look:

www.doorchaser.tk
Myspace

True, but I have to say, if CD prices overall where at least half the price wouldn't more people buy them and that way more sales and more money for the artist and record company?

Why do you think a lot of people download music off the net.

One thing I suggest is to have some free preview samples. I visited your site and I can't seem to find some previews. If I wanted to buy music I have to hear at least some samples, and even better if you could upload some free full length MP3 songs as well (just 4-5 samples). Then if the person really likes the music, they can decide if they wanna purchase the music.