Steve, the only problem with this argument is that all the small acts are still striving to get signed to the BIG label. Small local bands that first start selling their music online or through local shops are doing so to get noticed and picked up by the BIG label. If you enjoy a band you are pulling for them to get picked up so they are successful and are able making a living performing. The Decemberists are my latest example of this. They are a local PDX band that used to be on my friends record label (very local) They are now on a BIG one and able to perform around the world. They still record locally and have great freedom within the label, but they need the distribution power of the BIG labels and the Marketing Budgets.

As always money makes the world go 'round. I will not stop buying my friends albums because the get signed by the BIG label. In fact I applaud them for all the work they have put in to finally "make it".

Consumers do control the record industry, just like they control the local news, and the Government. I cannot help it if the majority of the people consuming, watching and voting are not the brightest bulbs in the lamp. That is something folks like us have had to put up with for years.

Oh well, just wanted to rant with you. :-)

Burl