Pirating=Drug Dealing

Gizmodo has a clip of an RIAA training video that makes some, er, we'll say "large" claims that pirating music is closely tied to drug rings and violent crime. I'm not saying I endorse pirating music, but I can't say that I believe these claims. Check them out for yourself here.

Just when you thought they were doing something right...

Sony BMG clarified the earlier rumors about going DRM-Free--they will offer DRM-Free downloads, but just to people who purchase a physical card in a store and visit a Sony BMG online store (www.musicpass.com). Right, so, this is different from purchasing the physical CD and burning it to your computer how? Oh, that's right, the RIAA won't sue you this way. These cards aren't a new idea, either. Check out www.DiscRevolt.com for another example of how bands can self-publish physical cards redeemable for digital downloads (and while you're there, pick up the new Edison Glass EP).

End of an era (good riddance)

Well, looks like Sony finally decided to give up on DRM. Bout damn time. This means pretty much everyone under the sun is free of DRM (though the EU is apparently considering their own DRM...weird). The next question is: why is anyone still using iTunes?