Finally: Amazon’s MP3 Store
September 26th, 2007I might have titled this story, “If You Can’t Beat ‘Em, Sell ‘Em DRM Free MP3s.”
Years ago, when Apple released iTunes, I looked at the DRM involved and said, “Not only no, f*@% no.” I’m really glad to see an alternative to Apple’s Tamper Proof Vending Machine reality. Of course, I’d rather just pay artists directly for MP3s. If we directly paid an artist $2 for their album on MP3, that would be more than they make when the same ones and zeros have been sold through the middlemen. But we’re not quite there yet.
In long tail economies, though, the middlemen can be good for helping people find artists that they might not have been able to find otherwise. You can’t enter a Google search for, “music I’d like.” But Amazon’s big brother suggestion systems are pretty good. I know, I like Pandora, too, but most people will never hear about that type of thing. Hint: If you’re outside the U.S., you will have to use innovative methods to access Pandora. Or, use LastFM instead.
For artists and music fans alike, a combination of no-middle-man music sales and social networking sites like Pandora and LastFM would be very nice. Must. Try. To. Hold. Breath…
Until then, you can get your consumer crack tunes AND help out Amazon affiliates like Cryptogon. * wink *
Just make sure to remove your iPod before standing in front of the Homeland’s directed energy pain weapon! For U.S. customers only. Your results may vary. Batteries not included.
Check it out: Amazon’s MP3 Store
