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Why a Music Tax Is a Bad Idea

Posted by timothy on from the let-me-count-the-ways dept.

An anonymous reader writes with a followup to the story posted last week about Warner Music's plan for a music tax for universities. "There's been some debate about this plan and Techdirt has a detailed explanation of why a music tax is a bad idea, noting that it effectively rewards those who failed in the marketplace, punishes those who innovated and sets up a huge, inefficient and unnecessary bureaucracy. Meanwhile, plenty of musicians who are experimenting with new business models are finding that they can make more money and appeal to more fans. So, why stymie that process with a new bureaucracy that simply funds the big record labels?"

4 of 194 comments (clear)

  1. Re:why? by Justin+Hopewell · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Because it doesn't make any sense, and damn it, that's the American way!

  2. It Depends On Your POV by Snowdog · · Score: 5, Insightful

    So, why stymie that process with a new bureaucracy that simply funds the big record labels?
    I think you've answered your own question. Warner Music isn't proposing this for your benefit.

  3. Re:why? by Moryath · · Score: 5, Insightful

    it effectively rewards those who failed in the marketplace, punishes those who innovated and sets up a huge, inefficient and unnecessary bureaucracy

    Well, that explains why Warner and the MafiAA are wanting it. They failed in the marketplace because they refuse to innovate and adapt with the times.

    Meanwhile, plenty of musicians who are experimenting with new business models are finding that they can make more money and appeal to more fans.

    And of course, that's the other thing that scares the shit out of the MafiAA - the new business models make them obsolete.

  4. Re:why? by Justin+Hopewell · · Score: 5, Insightful

    The talent is out there, its just not on the radio.