The Record Industry Continues Battle Against Free Music Downloads

Both movie and record producers claim file-sharing network that allows users to copy other network members’ files are infringing copyright laws. It is costing billions in lost revenue.

The record industry claims that 25% of its revenues has been lost due to computer thieves using peer-to­peer file-sharing network to download music for free.

Grokster Ltd. is known for its Grokster software file-sharing program and StreamCast Networks Inc. where the Morpheus software music downloads is distributed.

Grokster & Morpheus did a unique spin on the file-sharing phenomenon. Instead of indexing files shared like Napster, file-sharing products enable its network members build their own indexes. This enables others to download free music or movie files.

While some musicians are protesting being cheated by illegal music downloads, others are supporting the fact that music, movies, images, and copy are all being shared over Internet.

Some music lovers use the file-sharing network to download the latest album before buying a CD. However, it may contain only one good song. You will still have people who will not buy the CD but will continue to benefit from the free music downloads networks Fakaza.

Many file-sharing users believe that this network is beneficial for the music industry. File-sharing networks can introduce listeners and fans to small, independent bands that may not be heard on mainstream radio.

Apple’s iTunes Store has many people turning their backs on file sharing networks. Apple claims that it sells more songs each day than any other music store and they pay 99 cents for every song. iTunes is still limited and file sharing networks are able to fill the gap by having unlimited access music and movies not available from iTunes.

Individuals who downloaded music without paying for it were sued by record companies in 2003. With file-sharing sites like Grokster, Morpheus and others it will be harder for the recording industries to find individual users who have uploaded files.

Now that the Supreme Court is involved, they will likely issue some sort of ruling in June 2005 about what action to take against the file-sharing network developers.

If you make a wrong decision, it could hinder the future development and use of file-sharing software programs such as the iPod.

Grokster & Morpheus have no control over or knowledge of the content being downloaded. This led to a Los Angeles federal court and the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals rejecting the copyright infringement claims against both file-sharing networks.

Based on the Supreme Court’s 1984 ruling declaring that Sony Betamax could be used to make copies at home copyrighted TV shows was legal.

The record industry angle last week was that companies like Grokster, Morpheus and others are advertising their software will allow access to free copies copyrighted materials. They should be sued and shut them down.

Although the jury may still be out on this, file sharing networks with free music downloads and free music downloads will continue. Users won’t really have to worry about getting sued because they only download a small amount of music each month.

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How to Choose a Reliable Limo Rental Firm This Prom Season

Every high school senior looks forward to prom night. Prom night is a time to celebrate, have fun with your friends, and dance with your date. Prom season is when limousines are in high demand. Each school has an event planned for this season.

Book early

Avoid last-minute bookings and the hassle of making last-minute reservations. Book a limousine at least three to four months in advance. You will get the best rates and the limo model you want.

You will be able to ride in style on prom night in luxury SUVs, Hummers and stretch Cadillacs that are available early in the season. You might consider renting a limousine along with the evening dress or tuxedo and other necessary items for your big day.

Sign a contract

When hiring limo services, the contract is an essential part of the agreement. Make sure you get all details down on paper, including the date, time, vehicle model, amenities and other special services such as snacks or beverages.

You will be able to get what you paid for, which will prevent any problems later. You must ensure you fully understand the contract.

Review the licensing and insurance details

Ask for the certification and licensing of the company to provide luxury car service. These documents will be provided by any reputable limo rental company and they will answer all your questions.

Ask questions about insurance. This is important for any future incidents where you might have to pay the bill. You can read testimonials and reviews from past customers to get a better idea of the company’s professionalism and track record.

What will it cost?

Most limo rental companies charge an hourly rate and usually take between 3-4 hours to complete. The time begins when you get in the limo. This includes any additional time spent waiting or for any other reason.

Depending on vehicle model, number and location, the hourly rate can be anywhere from $70 to $120 depending on how many passengers are in the vehicle.

Some companies offer flat rates that are dependent on certain conditions, such as the number of vehicles hired. Ask about discounts and other specials if you book well in advance. Ask about gratuity and tip costs, as well as security deposit that is refundable.

Rent a Party Bus

You can include all your friends, even if your budget is tight. This will ensure that everyone pays equally. Renting a party bus is also possible. This allows everyone to sit comfortably and even dance. You can create a great atmosphere by renting a party bus before you even arrive at the prom venue.

Who will drive?

Don’t forget to ask the driver. Professional limo rental companies hire skilled chauffeurs who can manage transportation for events such as weddings and proms. A party is usually held at a different venue, such as a fancy hotel or bowling alley. Professional chauffeurs will make sure you arrive on time and in style at each venue.

Parents don’t have to worry about their teens’ safety, especially if they are returning from prom late at night. It is possible to rent a limousine to transport the young ladies and gents to the prom venue.

In a few weeks, the much-anticipated prom season will be here. Prom night is known for its glamorous dancing and young gents dressed in tuxedos. These are the moments that make it worthwhile to grab your camera and capture the moment for future generations.

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The Main Thing That Determines If Your Music Career Will Be A Success

What is the most important factor in determining whether or not you will succeed at the music business?

Answer: Your mindset. Your success in music is directly related to your choices and actions. These things are the result of your mindset.

Musicians who are successful in the music industry do not have superior musical talent or greater potential. They think differently than others, and take different actions to achieve different results.

If you have a positive mindset and are self-motivated, you will be able to make the right decisions that lead you to take actions that will bring you success in your music career. A positive outlook will help you ask the right questions and find the answers.

A good mindset can help you achieve some success in the music business, but you won’t see lasting success.

Negative mindsets are a sure way to fail in the music business, regardless of how positive your life is.

Consider three musicians who are in equal standing and facing the same three situations in the music industry. They are identical in every way, except for one: their mindset. The first musician has an average mindset. The second has a normal mindset. The third musician has an empowering mindset.

These examples will show you how much your mindset can impact your career in music.

Music Industry Challenge One – Building a Financially Stable Music Career

Musician #1 believes: “First, I need to have backup plans in case my career as a musician doesn’t work out.”

This mentality is rooted in fear of failure rather than a desire for success. Musicians who think like this tend to choose a job that has no connection to music. They end up trapped at their day job. They are further from their musical goals because of the fear they feel.

Musician #2 believes: “I don’t want to distract from my music career with a backup plan. I will be solely focused on music until my goals are achieved. I will not do anything that might get in my way of my musical goals.”

This will dramatically increase your chances of success in music. If you have only one option, it is success or failure. This is when success is your best option for achieving the goals you set.

This approach, however, is not very clear cut. It can lead to unnecessary risk. While it can increase your chances of reaching your goals, it doesn’t eliminate the possibility of your failure. You will not be able to make a career out of music if you neglect any financial deadlines or short-term financial responsibilities. Many musicians adopt this attitude and never realize their musical goals.

Musician #3 believes: “I must build my music career without having to struggle financially. It is essential that I earn money by using the following approach: It allows me to be creative and free. It works in conjunction with my long-term musical goals. It doesn’t require me to work 40+ hours per week. This allows me to pursue my musical dreams without financial hardship or struggle.

It is easy to understand how to grow your career in music. You can get music career mentoring. It is difficult to stay away from these two mindsets.

Be sure to test your ability to have a stable and financially secure music career before you continue reading.

Music Industry Challenge Two – Getting More Paid Gigs:

Musician #1 believes: “I don’t make enough money from my gigs, because the booking venue owners don’t pay well and are ripping off me.”

Musicians who think this way will not be able find gigs that pay a lot of money. You must help a venue make more money if you want to make more money at a gig. This goal is not possible if you just show up and play.

Musician #2 thinks “I need more people to come my shows. This will allow any venue to see the value I bring them, and they’ll pay me more.

This type of thinking will help you make more from your gigs. If you create value for the people you are looking to work with, they will be more willing to invest in you. You get paid for your gig.

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