[Tauzero]

"So who can make a living writing or playing music?"

As always, those that can find a patron.

The nature of the patron may very well change.

[The Old Hoosier]

Yes, you will be the patron, through the NEA.

[MattGarrett]

Well, if the music industry would follow the HBO model for those who wish to download, artists and song writers would still make money.

People would pay a monthly fee for downloading music. That fee would be used to pay royalties or to license music for download. Artists, songwriters, and companies would still, under the HBO model, make money. And, in fact, may even make a better profit since their distribution costs would be - in theory - cut. No packaging or shipping - no printing costs - no CD manufacturing - or a smaller amount for those who actually want to buy a CD.

It has the potential to be the distribution arm of the future.