Illegal downloads [Archive] - Mobile Disco Directory Forum

|DJChris|

07-02-2008, 03:37 PM

Right.
I completely agree that you shouldn’t go around breaking the law.
I also agree that as DJ, it is my duty to provide a decent honest service for my customers.
However, after reading a post recently about how this guy had been given 4,000 ripped songs, I noticed that the common reaction was overly negative, they were very adamant about it being illegal (which it is) but how you should always keep it legal, in a lot of cases I can understand, but realistically, using a black CD with few Illegal mp'3s downloaded off Limewire or whatever, at one of my gigs isn’t the end of the world. I mean, don’t most DJ’s do this once in a while. 4,000 is taking the biscuit I agree. But even I probably have around 50 illegal mp3’s on my system.

I just want to see what peoples reaction is to what I have said, whether you agree or disagree and why.

Sam

07-02-2008, 03:43 PM

I have NO illegal coopies of music that I use for DJing on my cd collection or my laptop.

It is illegal. And we all run legit businesses.

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 03:47 PM

Using illegal downloads is stealing - simple as that.

Is is OK to go into a shop and steal a few things, 'cos they are only cheap and it isn't the end of the world...

If you want to use them, it's up to you, but this is a public forum for all to see, so probably not a great idea to be posting that you use them.

JAMdisco

07-02-2008, 03:52 PM

The only reason I have ever downloaded illegaly is when I've seen an album i might want (for personal use) and have downloaded some tracks to see if I'll like it. If I like it I will buy it, if not, I delete the tracks.

Therefore all of my collection is legit (as far as can been seen at this moment intime with licence laws etc.) and any additional music has either been in CD format (original) or dowloaded legally.

The main reason I like it all above board is because a friend of a friend got a hefty fine when he was doing a local residency with copied CD's and has since "gone out of business". I don't want that...

Tom

07-02-2008, 04:00 PM

I have no illegal music at all. I dont see the point tbh.

Plus i prefer to have the cd. Feels like i actually own it. Yes i may have a wall full of cd's (on shelfs) but i think that looks quite immpressive.

|DJChris|

07-02-2008, 04:02 PM

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 04:04 PM

, i have my reasons why i dont mind downloading the odd track off limwire.

So, how are you going to justify stealing then?

I'm interested in your reasons.

Danno13

07-02-2008, 04:10 PM

Perhaps if the song isn't avaliable anywhere legally yet? Ok.. not really an excuse but then when you know you'll have to play upfront tracks that you can't get anywhere else, what do you do?

Thats the only time I use "other sources", but i'll always buy the track once its on Napster.

Tom

07-02-2008, 04:14 PM

I thought file sharing was legal. Lets say i write a song and put it up on limewire for example because i own the song and have given permission for it to be posted on the internet then its legal. But this debate is about copying music where you do not have permission from the artist which is illegal.

A1DL

07-02-2008, 04:19 PM

I apreciate the comments so far.
Just so you know, im not looking to justify downloading illegaly, nor am i looking for a dispute with someone whofeels strongly about my decision, i have my reasons why i dont mind downloading the odd track off limwire.

I just want to see how others feel about doing it themselves.

Chris

My knowledge of internet music and downloading is very limited, however from reading this thread I assume that Limwire.co.uk is an illegal music source website. If this is the case, I find your thought process quite astonishing.

Applying your principle, do you think it is acceptable/morally upstanding/legal to visit your local supermarket to buy 90% of your weekly groceries, but shove a few small items up your pullover & fill your inside pockets - after all you ARE paying for most of what you need?

I both personally and professionally take a very dim view of thieves and always report them to the relevant authorities. If you are a thief there is no place for you in this industry. If you are not a thief, then you may want to consider re-wording your post, as I am not the only one to read it in a bad light.

Tony

|DJChris|

07-02-2008, 04:25 PM

So, how are you going to justify stealing then?

I'm interested in your reasons.

Look, i didnt say i wanted, or needed to justify anything.
You dont have to agree or understand.

My own reasons, consist of a variety of aspects of the economy system that surrounds us.
I mean, even having the music in its original format isnt technically completely legal, becasue theres still the revenue cost that has to be paid to the artist who made it, if you want to play the music publicly.
also the amount we are taxed day to day is theft in its own right ! lol

But that really is not the reason i would download the odd track.
On the grand scale of things (keeping in mind that im not a serial downloader, i mean we are talking single digit amounts), its just not that big of a deal.

I mean, you say stealing from a supermarket. well i see your point, but thats the whole, "how illeagl is it" debate. Theres a scale.... from taping off the radio to commiting high treason. you know.. i just think the mp3 sits very close to the start of that scale.
Infact i dont think its feesible to be completely legal in your day to day life, (not that, that is my point). I just want to see how people feel about doing it themselves.

Tom

07-02-2008, 04:29 PM

But that really is not the reason i would download the odd track.
On the grand scale of things (keeping in mind that im not a serial downloader, i mean we are talking single digit amounts), its just not that big of a deal.

You tell that to the judge.

|DJChris|

07-02-2008, 04:31 PM

sorry for double post..

But to quickly clear things up... limewire isnt illegal software. it shares a file
the illegal part is playing it pubicly or burning it to cd and selling it.
keeping it for personal use is ok, (at least at the moment) is hard to completely explain file sharing laws. as alot is constaly chainging

You tell that to the judge.

sorry MNA disco, but that comment, really misses the point of what im saying. i am completely aware it is illegal. im prepared to take that risk. however insignificant it is. i am mearly asking others if they would do the same.

som to annswer your questions. i dont intend to tell anything to a judge. and if i have to, serves me right, it was my choice.

Sam

07-02-2008, 04:39 PM

I would have thought a public post would prove as a good base to invesigate.
Now where is that report website.. :mad:

Not that I would report it. But I am not in the game of making my money legaly while the little runts go around using illegal music - thus they have no music costs!

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 04:40 PM

Look, i didnt say i wanted, or needed to justify anything.
You dont have to agree or understand.

I don't agree and I don't understand.

If you start a thread like this then you will need to justify yourself.

I mean, even having the music in its original format isnt technically completely legal, becasue theres still the revenue cost that has to be paid to the artist who made it, if you want to play the music publicly.

There are licences that cover that.

Infact i dont think its feesible to be completely legal in your day to day life, (not that, that is my point).

Maybe not, but if you get caught for speeding, even 1 mph over the speed limit, you cannot justify it. It is still breaking the law.

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 04:42 PM

sorry for double post..

But to quickly clear things up... limewire isnt illegal software. it shares a file
the illegal part is playing it pubicly or burning it to cd and selling it.
keeping it for personal use is ok, (at least at the moment) is hard to completely explain file sharing laws. as alot is constaly chainging

Incorrect. Downloading a copyrighted song and not paying for it is illegal from a p2p site. The software is legal to use if you are downloading a song without copyright on it.

Keeping it for personal use is also illegal.

File sharing copyrighted files is illegal. End of story.

You really must check your information before posting rubbish on a public forum.

A1DL

07-02-2008, 04:44 PM

Chris - I have just read your profile, and find it quite ironic that you include "law" amongst your interests!

Age:
19 Biography:
Ive been DJ'ing for over a year now, im very interested in the current Indie/Electro sound. Location:
Lydney-Gloucestershire Interests:
To name a few... Art,Music,Law,Media,Literature,Gigs,Music Festivals,Fashion. Occupation:
DJ Name:
chris Company or Disco Name:
Atmosphere

|DJChris|

07-02-2008, 04:47 PM

Sam

07-02-2008, 04:49 PM

DON'T try and make out that we are all like you.

|DJChris|

07-02-2008, 04:51 PM

DON'T try and make out that we are all like you.

Sam... i really didnt. thats why i asked if you do it.

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 04:51 PM

ok ok... please im not looking for a war. really im not

i respect the forum and the people in it.

my situation is very similar to most of you. my disco is 98% legal, bar the odd dodgy mp3, whether this is becasue i couldnt find it in the stores and needed it urgently. or maybe its for my own guilty pleasure and no one else's.
Almost all of my music is legit.
I just want to keep things in perspective.

I am really just asking, if other DJ'S sometimes do it, and some of you do. im not talking about the cowboys. or somone trying to dodge the costs. i pay my public liabilitie and all that jazz!

I honestly didnt think (in careful moderation) its a big deal.

But the point is if you post something like this, you need to check your facts first for the correct information, which you appear not to have, and also it looks like you are advocating the use of illegal music which as an industry and as a forum we are totally against.

The whole reason for this forum is to promote best practise amongst DJs and that doesn't include using illegally downloaded music.

|DJChris|

07-02-2008, 04:56 PM

But the point is if you post something like this, you need to check your facts first for the correct information, which you appear not to have, and also it looks like you are advocating the use of illegal music which as an industry and as a forum we are totally against.

The whole reason for this forum is to promote best practise amongst DJs and that doesn't include using illegally downloaded music.

Ok fairenough.... look i've gained great help from the people who use this forum.
I totally resppect what you have just said.. so i've overstepped the mark

My intentions really were honest, and intrigue, and i was no way intending to advocate using illegal music, nor would i ever.

so if it really has come across completely negative, then i will just kill the thread now.

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 04:59 PM

Ok fairenough.... look i've gained great help from the people who use this forum.
I totally resppect what you have just said.. so i've overstepped the mark

My intentions really were honest, and intrigue, and i was no way intending to advocate using illegal music, nor would i ever.

so if it really has come across completely negative, then i will just kill the thread now.

I don't think you've overstepped the mark Chris, but I think that some things perhaps shouldn't be posted on forums and also you must check your info next time.

It's always good debate. :)

PropellerHeadCase

07-02-2008, 05:24 PM

I think when P2P first reared its head with the first iteration of Napster and then AudioGalaxy the general public had a genuine gripe with the music industry as the pricing was clearly out of step with reality, especially as they were failing to embrace more modern delivery systems. Now, though, all kicking and screaming aside, most labels have embraced iTunes and other legal MP3 solutions. CDs are still predominantly over-priced but now there are genuine legal alternatives. There are still gaping holes in the delivery systems and archives (which is, I think what Chris was ultimately getting at) but the current status quo is a far better state of affairs than even just a few years ago.

JAMdisco

07-02-2008, 05:30 PM

but the current status quo is a far better state of affairs than even just a few years ago.

Yay, have they got a new single out? where can I download it....:rolleyes:

Penfold42

07-02-2008, 06:13 PM

Right.
I completely agree that you shouldn’t go around breaking the law.
Agreed..

I also agree that as DJ, it is my duty to provide a decent honest service for my customers.
:confused: .....no you lost me straight away...but i'll listen...:)

However, after reading a post recently about how this guy had been given 4,000 ripped songs, I noticed that the common reaction was overly negative
Law abiding citizens...

they were very adamant about it being illegal (which it is) but how you should always keep it legal, in a lot of cases I can understand, but realistically, using a black CD with few Illegal mp'3s downloaded off Limewire or whatever, at one of my gigs isn’t the end of the world.
:confused: ..no lost again.....this then rubs out.....

I also agree that as DJ, it is my duty to provide a decent honest service for my customers.

I mean, don’t most DJ’s do this once in a while. 4,000 is taking the biscuit I agree. But even I probably have around 50 illegal mp3’s on my system.
:eek: :eek: :eek:

I just want to see what peoples reaction is to what I have said, whether you agree or disagree and why.
Not here.....

I've just been converted to digital (on the way)......i dont use any......:)

Vectis

07-02-2008, 06:19 PM

Yay, have they got a new single out? where can I download it....:rolleyes:

Tried Limwire.co.uk? :lol:

robbiedj

07-02-2008, 06:34 PM

I mean, you say stealing from a supermarket. well i see your point, but thats the whole, "how illeagl is it" debate. Theres a scale.... from taping off the radio to commiting high treason. you know.. i just think the mp3 sits very close to the start of that scale.

Tell that to the artists / composers you are stealing from.

Despite what people think, they do not get a great deal from a cd sale, most goes to the recording company. They get about the same from a downloaded sale.

Does it seem right to steal from them?

They are not all earning like Robbie Williams.

Without their work you would not have any work.

BeerFunk

07-02-2008, 07:04 PM

Hmmm... interesting thread. Now... how many people are going to be honest about it? :rolleyes:

Some MP3s on my hard drive have been there for literally years, and I couldn't account for every single one. I most likely have some, in which I've sold the original CD/vinyl etc. I have some MP3s which cannot be purchased anywhere. However, I can be honest in saying that the CDs I take out on the road with me are all legitimate.

The people that take the moral high ground, saying that they do 100% everything by the book, 'tell it to the judge' etc - well, it doesn't impress me. The dodgy DJs that go around with a CD wallet of copies are the real criminals.

The 'stealing' comparison isn't always valid either. Downloading a 'white label' MP3, which cannot be purchased, can't be classed as 'stealing'.

By the way, I happen to know as a fact that a lot of big name DJs use copied CDs and white labels which aren't technically legal (from many years of hanging around at DJ booths).

I think sometimes you have to look at the wider picture, and put things into perspective :)

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 07:08 PM

OK, i have spoken privately to Chris and he had no intention of promoting illegally downloaded music. He wasn't completely aware of all the facts, and has been put straight on certain issues.

He says he respects people on here and has learned a lot from here and I believe his heart is in the right place and that he will think before he starts a thread like this again.

So, I think everyone knows the score now on the subject, so let's leave it there unless you have any more constructive views on the subject.

Thanks.

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 07:10 PM

I think sometimes you have to look at the wider picture, and put things into perspective :)

Sorry, but that is just words that mean nothing.

This is a specific thread about illegally downloaded music, not the wider picture and putting things into perspective.

djsteve10

07-02-2008, 07:13 PM

Yet again another thread about illegally downloaded music, All the music that i use is legitament and is paid for, I am a professioanll Dj so i will keep my business and my ways of working professioanl. People who steal their music to make money off are killing the Music industry and are cowboys in my eyes and are not in it to provide a service, Just to make some extra cash to spend down the pub!

Anyway just my opinion and not poinging that at anybody.

BeerFunk

07-02-2008, 07:19 PM

Sorry, but that is just words that mean nothing.

This is a specific thread about illegally downloaded music, not the wider picture and putting things into perspective.
Well I thought I'd already explained. I completely agree that anything which is commercially available should be paid for, otherwise no-one would be making new music.

However, some tracks are not available to buy anywhere, and as such, I wouldn't start castrating a DJ who downloaded or copied such tracks. This, in my opinion, wouldn't make the DJ a thief, pirate or cowboy - which is what I meant by looking at the bigger picture.

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 07:23 PM

Well I thought I'd already explained. I completely agree that anything which is commercially available should be paid for, otherwise no-one would be making new music.

However, some tracks are not available to buy anywhere, and as such, I wouldn't start castrating a DJ who downloaded or copied such tracks. This, in my opinion, wouldn't make the DJ a thief, pirate or cowboy - which is what I meant by looking at the bigger picture.

OK, point taken, but just because they aren't available commercially still doesn't justify downloading illegally IMO.

If you couldn't get a product from a shop, you wouldn't go and steal it from someones house would you?

BeerFunk

07-02-2008, 07:33 PM

OK, point taken, but just because they aren't available commercially still doesn't justify downloading illegally IMO.

If you couldn't get a product from a shop, you wouldn't go and steal it from someones house would you?
No, but I'd take a second look at a rare garden gnome :D

Tony Scott

07-02-2008, 07:36 PM

No, but I'd take a second look at a rare garden gnome :D

Yeah I know your sort! Gnome botherer!! :D

A1DL

07-02-2008, 07:37 PM

By the way, I happen to know as a fact that a lot of big name DJs use copied CDs and white labels which aren't technically legal (from many years of hanging around at DJ booths).

Callum, I think you are referring to promo copies which are distributed by record labels and promotional companies to club DJs as MP3 downloads, which the DJ then puts onto a CDR to play and promote in a club.

Until a few years ago, these promo copies were distributed on 12" vinyl, then CDR, and now some companies have started distributing MP3 downloads.

However contraty to your suggestion, I don't believe there are any legality issues there as these are made available to a small and closed list of club DJs for the explicit purpose of playing to promote new material and thus generate awareness and sales.

Furthermore, the record companies and promotional companies take a very serious stance on the illegal copying or file sharing of promotional material, with individual CDRs and MP3 files being digitally watermarked so they can be identified to an individual recipient. Offenders are removed from the companies' distribution lists and face potential legal action by the record companies.

This is a totally different scenario to what was raised in the OP and as such should not be confused.

Tony

spin mobile disco

07-02-2008, 07:49 PM

OK , all fair comment so far. One of the problems I think these days is the old change of media copying that is causing a lot of grief. For example: Guy owns 32000 vinyl singles he bought the whole lot. Each artist got his or her share of money from record company sales and the record company being who they are took the rest. Now this guy with the vinyl finds he want to go to cd. Fair enough most of us did that and he goes out and buys 3000 cd albums say replacing 80% of his original collection with remastered all singing all dancing cd tracks. Now he has say 1000 singles left that he cant find on cd. He trys, he contacts labels he rings around and he cant find them. So he pays a man in an audio studio (for example) to convert the vinyl to cd. Its that or lose these precious tracks that no one else has.
I must admit I realise that the law has become a little hazy on this but I find nothing reprehensible in that myself. Man gets music , man who tranfers them gets paid and original artist got paid in the past.
I know this is against the law (im pretty sure it is anyway) but I see no way or getting around it . Its this or loss the music forever, which is a tradgedy in itself.
I agree illigal downloading of songs is wrong as is sharing said songs im not arguing the fact. However if I may layout a small scenario for you.

You have a gig this weekend bride and groom change mind about first dance song and cannot provide you with a copy. You search and search and find it on itunes (doesnt matter but an online purchase anyway) you buy it on itunes and have receipt etc. Then you find out you are unable to use it on your decks. Your using a D2 or cortex or dennon and the song is protected so you cant use it. You own this song , you paid for it and you can't use it. The clock is ticking you have 2 hours before gig to get song or everyone will feel let down. Shops are shut. How do you resolve this.
Now I know what I would do but will leave it up to you.
1. Tell bride on her most important day that you have let her down
2. Write song to CD and rip to mp3 for use
3. Download a copy from a filesharing program ( i mean you own this song and you are not going to share it once you have it)
4. Or what?

Im not having a go at anyone on this at all so please don't think that. I am genuinley interested on the answers. I have been in this situation in the past and already know what I would and have done. I wonder how others have solved this situation.

P.S I know its the bride and grooms fault for telling you so late but this is a hypothetical situation so please treat it as such.

Jiggles

07-02-2008, 07:52 PM

This vid sums it all up :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yz-grdpKVqg

A1DL

07-02-2008, 07:57 PM

You have a gig this weekend bride and groom change mind about first dance song and cannot provide you with a copy. You search and search and find it on itunes (doesnt matter but an online purchase anyway) you buy it on itunes and have receipt etc. Then you find out you are unable to use it on your decks. Your using a D2 or cortex or dennon and the song is protected so you cant use it. You own this song , you paid for it and you can't use it.

Hi Matthew

I don't understand the problem, surely if you have bought the track from a legal download website, then you can legally copy it onto a CDR or CDRW and play it out..... or have I missed the point you are making?

Tony

Solitaire Events Ltd

07-02-2008, 07:58 PM

Good points there Spin.

I am the man who bought it all on record and then CD and now again for some stuff on Mp3 'cos I can't be bothered to look through my CDs to find a certain track that didn't burn and shoul have done...

I've also done the same with my video collection - re-bought it all on DVD and I certainly wouldn't go onto the net and download them illegally either.

I agree that no-one is whiter than white, and I'm sure that at sometimes during our lives we've all done something slightly dodgy for whatever reason, but what we don't want to do is get into the situation where we say that illegal downloading is OK, 'cos it's not good for this site or the industry as a whole.

Tony Scott

07-02-2008, 08:16 PM

I agree that no-one is whiter than white, and I'm sure that at sometimes during our lives we've all done something slightly dodgy for whatever reason, but what we don't want to do is get into the situation where we say that illegal downloading is OK, 'cos it's not good for this site or the industry as a whole.

AGREED!.........but does anyone know where I can get hold of a dodgy MOT, a snide Tax Disc & some Red Diesel? :D

spin mobile disco

07-02-2008, 08:20 PM

No I agree, im not saying illegal downloading is ok I was just trying to make a couple of examples to make people think. And A1DL apparently it is illegal to write an itunes song to cd and then rip back to mp3 without the copy protection. Something to do with the copy protection user agreement or some such rot.

spin mobile disco

07-02-2008, 08:21 PM

Dunno about red diesel have you got some food coloring?

A1DL

07-02-2008, 08:26 PM

PropellerHeadCase

07-02-2008, 08:27 PM

Blood oil?

spin mobile disco

07-02-2008, 08:43 PM

Beacuse as in my post Iused a d2 or cortex as an example they are not cd players but digital players. And neither can use music that is copy protected as it is on itunes etc

A1DL

07-02-2008, 08:59 PM

Beacuse as in my post Iused a d2 or cortex as an example they are not cd players but digital players. And neither can use music that is copy protected as it is on itunes etc

Thanks, I understand now :)

PropellerHeadCase

07-02-2008, 10:16 PM

Beacuse as in my post Iused a d2 or cortex as an example they are not cd players but digital players. And neither can use music that is copy protected as it is on itunes etc

To be honest, I think that some sort of CD playback device (even if only a discman) is imperative for wedding DJing, particularly. Both for the example given, for the case of the important song that you were never told about (how often does THAT happen?), and for having a few mix CDs handy (and playable) should your primary play-out device take a dive. Killing numerous birds with one stone, that.

Starlight

07-02-2008, 10:55 PM

I do not download illigal MP3 songs. I use origional CD's and pay for all my downloads via iTunes and print off every single invoice iTunes send.

Mendoza.

kilmeedyman

07-02-2008, 11:29 PM

I have been thinking about the 'unreleased/white label etc.' songs. I will start another thread though.

Jaggiebunnett

08-02-2008, 01:34 AM

Solitaire Events Ltd

08-02-2008, 01:38 AM

Whats a record? :confused:

Something that preceeded CDs and Mp3s. :rolleyes:

Corabar Steve

08-02-2008, 08:12 AM

surely you would leave it on the CD and play it off the CD?
why woudl you copy it back into an mp3 format again?

Because iTunes uses copy protected AAC files, you can't actually play them on anything else.

UltraBeat Entertainment

08-02-2008, 08:24 AM

Seems this post has hit a few nerves. Intresting Subject.

I personally don't know the law about legally downloading tracks off the internet and burning them off your self so am still buying all my music in stores until the law stops changing so dam often. Also i think it looks better to have all original CD's. It looks better to the customer.

I understand about the different formats. I've just got a tougether a good CD collection now i'm looking into building up an MP3 collection and then i need to buy them all again on CD+G for karaoke. And maybe even DVD in the future. Where does it end! I'll end up paying for the same track 4 times!!!

I will be honest when i first found out about downloading music i did download a few albums (this was a few years ago mind) but when i found they were illegal i stripped them from my collection and replaced them with the originals.
And before anyone starts this all happened many years ago and my collection is now free of downloaded tracks and i'm 100% legit now. It also takes alot of weight of your shoulders when you now your running legally.

rob1963

08-02-2008, 08:31 AM

UltraBeat Entertainment

08-02-2008, 08:42 AM

:agree: You are completley correct. but this would never happen for two reasons.
1)this is an open forum and future customers could read and find out they are not total legit
2)users are concerned what other users will say as |DJChris|found out the hard way.

rob1963

08-02-2008, 08:45 AM

Fair enough, and lets face it...I already get enough people jumping down my throat WITHOUT starting threads like that!

:Laugh:

UltraBeat Entertainment

08-02-2008, 08:52 AM

lol.
i think we should just face that some people on these forums will never be completly honest as they are scared to tell the truth.

Penfold42

08-02-2008, 09:07 AM

lol.
i think we should just face that some people on these forums will never be completly honest as they are scared to tell the truth.

:eek: :eek: :eek:
Who else owns up to using Warrior speakers then??..........:D :D :D :D :D

What you hear and see is what you get....don't know if that's a good or bad thing.....;) :)

mr rusty

08-02-2008, 10:29 AM

I'm not going to condone illegal downloading, but the whole subject of music copyright is a moving target at the moment, where the law doesn't really match the reality. The big labels are on the edge of meltdown because their business model is under threat. IMHO it won't be long before a significant proportion of music bypasses the big labels entirely and people get it directly from the bands themselves through downloads. We are already seeing the edge of the revolution where some bands are, in effect, distributing music for free in order to promote their concerts where they make their money. Prince springs to mind.

The whole subject of copying/distributing does have some grey edges. I have seen a particular folk-rock band on a few occasions - show of hands - OK not a band suitable for discos, but at every concert I have been to the band have told the audience to go out there, copy their CD's - give them to your friends - spread the word. Now, as their music is fairly mainstream and available in the likes of HMV and other official channels, how does this square with MCPS, PRS etc? Do they as the band have the right to let people copy their official CD's?

I think I'm playing devil's advocate here, but with many unknown bands probably wanting to see their music played/distributed in any way possible, who does the whole issue of music copyright protect? The big labels, who don't want to see their earnings go down? Us, because having to own a significant quantity of legit music, protects us from the cowboy upstarts?

In my, and I think many other peoples opinion, the existing circle can't be squared. So called "illegal" downloads aren't going to go away, and to my mind the winners are starting to be those who look on the downloads as a form of promotion and are looking to get their returns through concerts, merchandising, and other forms of added-value.

Discuss :devil:

spin mobile disco

08-02-2008, 10:41 AM

I agree this is an interesting subject, although I wonder how many posts are honest?

Maybe I'll start a thread asking "Do you pay tax on your disco earnings?"

I'm sure everyone would say yes!

:rolleyes:

I do, although to be fair with the kind of outgoings I end up with and with a new baby luckily its not to high a bill. (i hope any way)
Also pay my own national insurance and pat pli etc. But Im pretty sure all the full timers pay it on here. As do some of the part timers.:rolleyes:

Dillmiester

08-02-2008, 10:56 AM

With bands choosing to give music away or dispence any copyright we are heading for confusion if we are asked to provide originals or reciepts.
Im thinking back to the KLF who refused to put any copyright notice on their music, so techinically people can do what they like with it.

I will be honest and say that there have been occasions when ive heard a remix of a track on the radio or internet and thougt I must have that! Ive searched around and the only place I could obtain a copy is via a download site.
For some DJ's (and myself included) we get a kick out of playing a new killer track or white lable before it goes mainstream (I dont the mean The Killers). So by doing this we are promoting or stealing the track,,,,, more promoting i would say.

rob1963

08-02-2008, 11:03 AM

Im pretty sure all the full timers pay it on here. As do some of the part timers.:rolleyes:

I agree...although the full timers on here are probably in the minority!

;)

djsteve10

08-02-2008, 11:05 AM

Well i am getting the work in big time no so im looking at going at it full time in the next few months :D

Vectis

08-02-2008, 11:13 AM

And I may be presented with the opportunity to do the same in the not-too-distant as well :o

DJWilson

08-02-2008, 03:10 PM

a while ago on Kiss FM or something they was on about mark ronson, saying that he ammited to downloading of off a illegal download area if iTunes hasent got it, for a gig. nothing happened to him. but i agree no illegal music

Tom

08-02-2008, 03:17 PM

a while ago on Kiss FM or something they was on about mark ronson, saying that he ammited to downlading of off a illegal download area it iTunes havent got it, for a gig. nothing happened to him. but i agree no illegal music

this does not make sence, well to me anyway. check your spelling

Corabar Steve

08-02-2008, 03:31 PM

this does not make sence, well to me anyway. check your spelling

Pots & kettles

Candybeatdiscos

08-02-2008, 03:49 PM

How many people owned a video player or cassette recorder?

How many recorded a television program or taped the charts etc?

All illegal - but we all done it - although i am sure there will be one or two who will say "No, i never ever broke the law in my life"

Mission

08-02-2008, 04:16 PM

taped the charts etc?

Microphone in front of radio, telling your mum to be quite and trying to hit the pause before the dj spoke :D

TDK must of made a fortune.

Not that I ever did that you understand :rolleyes:

Solitaire Events Ltd

08-02-2008, 05:49 PM

How many people owned a video player or cassette recorder?

How many recorded a television program or taped the charts etc?

Slightly different as DJs make money from music.

Penfold42

08-02-2008, 07:01 PM

Slightly different as DJs make money from music.

Been nearly a year and i've not made a penny.......:p ;) :D

Solitaire Events Ltd

08-02-2008, 07:09 PM

Been nearly a year and i've not made a penny.......:p ;) :D

Slightly different as DJs make money from music.

Eventually...;)

Penfold42

08-02-2008, 07:13 PM

Eventually...;)

Tell my MD that.....:D
She only see's out going's not income......i'll get there...:)

Candybeatdiscos

09-02-2008, 12:24 AM

Slightly different as DJs make money from music.

what you didn't tape the charts and sell the tracks to mates at the school?

where were your entrunup..entre...selling skills?

so what about the people who illegally download music for thier own personal use - are they ok then?

rob1963

09-02-2008, 09:22 AM

Slightly different as DJs make money from music.

so what about the people who illegally download music for thier own personal use - are they ok then?

Just what I was wondering.

So is it ok to break the law as long as you don't make any money from it?

:confused: :confused: :confused:

Solitaire Events Ltd

09-02-2008, 10:56 AM

Just what I was wondering.

So is it ok to break the law as long as you don't make any money from it?

:confused: :confused: :confused:

No, but we are talking about DJs who download illegally.

rob1963

09-02-2008, 11:20 AM

No, but we are talking about DJs who download illegally.

Fair enough!

:D

daz226

09-02-2008, 12:04 PM

well i have receipts for all my music i am allways being offered free music from sites but never take up the offer as i intend to allways be 100% legit i have done that from the start and will continue to do so.

i also get customers asking for me to copy a cd for them all i tell them is where they can go a buy it.

gaza

09-02-2008, 03:48 PM

no wonder this bloke got the boot from fleebay

http://feedback.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback2&userid=ive_got_every_cd_4_sale&ftab=AllFeedback&myworld=true

I was looking at the feedback on someones auction and found it.

the cheeky so and so.

theoloyla

09-02-2008, 04:05 PM

To be honest, I think that some sort of CD playback device (even if only a discman) is imperative for wedding DJing, particularly. Both for the example given, for the case of the important song that you were never told about (how often does THAT happen?), and for having a few mix CDs handy (and playable) should your primary play-out device take a dive. Killing numerous birds with one stone, that.
Entirely agree. I always carry a portable music centre with tape radio and CD which in the case of power failure also works off batteries.

BeerFunk

09-02-2008, 04:10 PM

Entirely agree. I always carry a portable music centre with tape radio and CD which in the case of power failure also works off batteries.
That's a good idea, it would have served me well at a wedding I did last year, where there was a power cut; and the building was on backup power. I had enough power to get a CD deck playing directly to the amp, although the mixer wouldn't power on.

sleah

10-02-2008, 09:05 PM

Entirely agree. I always carry a portable music centre with tape radio and CD which in the case of power failure also works off batteries.

Now that's going the extra mile!
Power goes off, up pops Theo armed with ghetto blaster and a torch, can nothing hold this man down?:D :D

Brings new meaning to 'mobile' disco!!!

Impactdisco

10-02-2008, 09:15 PM

Solitaire Events Ltd

10-02-2008, 09:27 PM

I have a 3kva generator and now I have a big enough van, am considering taking it with me to use as back up power for the disco. It would only take 5 minutes to run out a mains cable and start the generator up, should there be a power cut

Isn't that slightly OTT? :eek:

I can count on one hand how many times there have beenn power failures in venues when I've been working.

Let's be honest, it's hardly our fault if the electricity goes off!

sleah

10-02-2008, 09:27 PM

I have a 3kva generator and now I have a big enough van, am considering taking it with me to use as back up power for the disco. It would only take 5 minutes to run out a mains cable and start the generator up, should there be a power cut

I have a similar one and have considered what you suggest in the past.

There are several things to consider:
Could it be tampered with?
Could children / numpties get near it? (i.e. accident)
Will it pose any danger to surroundings? (i.e. heat, exhaust fumes, petrol vapour, fire risk)
Can the spare fuel be stored safely?
If it's not used, is it safe to leave it (& fuel) in the van?

For all the above reasons, I only take my generator when it is needed and can be used safely, rather than just as a backup.

rob1963

10-02-2008, 10:19 PM

I can count on one hand how many times there have beenn power failures in venues when I've been working.

Let's be honest, it's hardly our fault if the electricity goes off!

I think I'm right in saying I've NEVER had a power cut at a gig.

Not only is it not our fault if the electricity goes off, but we should all have something in our terms & conditions which covers this, just to stop any potential problems.

Danno13

10-02-2008, 10:21 PM

There's also the fact that even if you could run the disco again, what about the bar and venue lights?? I think it'd be the end of the night if there was a permenant power cut...

rob1963

10-02-2008, 10:24 PM

There's also the fact that even if you could run the disco again, what about the bar and venue lights?? I think it'd be the end of the night if there was a permenant power cut...

I think you're right.

Also, no lights in the toilets, no heating...

...health & safety & all that!

djsteve10

10-02-2008, 10:30 PM

Why carry the disco on, i would start the generator and set all my lighting to white creating a light around the venue,
I also carry a small portable light which is used by mechanics and would plug that in while i pack the gear up safely.

A1DL

10-02-2008, 10:31 PM

I have a 3kva generator and now I have a big enough van, am considering taking it with me to use as back up power for the disco. It would only take 5 minutes to run out a mains cable and start the generator up, should there be a power cut

Has that set got AVR?

All the 3kva sets I've ever seen haven't, and these tiny gennies are normally the open framed type that the DIY stores sell for circa £129.

Without AVR, the voltage will be up & down like a whore's drawers and little use for running AV equipment on, where the operating tolerance is generally +/- 10%

If it is a diesel set, the voltage will be more stable, although I would still recommend you only connect AV equipment to an AVR set.

Tony

kilmeedyman

10-02-2008, 10:55 PM

My dad has a 3Kva diesel that he bought new for £300 about 2 years ago and that certainly has AVR etc.

Works a treat for my gear.

Impactdisco

11-02-2008, 09:31 AM

Actually it has, and it cost a lot more than £129

You could well be right about venue not being able to operate, but just imagine the extra credibility you'd have with the client if it happened, and you could offer to carry on.

I'm sure the word of mouth from the clients would be great. Not so sure about the venue's though.

And it'snot as though I have to go out and buy a generator. I already have it and would only have to be sitting in the van. What's more I reckon I have over 300ft of 16amp cable which would help if I had to run a long lead out.