The artists speaking at the event were largely very positive about the promise of the Internet and how it can enhance a musician's career and perhaps transform the way the music business is run. Rosen agreed that the Internet can give artists more choices, and said that she wasn't against Napster for those musicians who opt to share their music that way. The Internet is a very important way to bypass avenues that aren't appropriate for many artists. For instance, Hersh could build her career marketing songs online to her fans but doesn't need to be on top of the Billboard charts to feel successful. A general consensus at the conference by all parties was that this monetary incentive for artists shouldn't be overlooked.
Music can feed the soul, maybe it can feed some mouths.
One way to make sure artists aren't ignored in these debates is for musicians to band together to get their voices heard. Stone advocates a musicians group akin to the Screen Actors Guild that could educate members. Another benefit of artists banding together could be a way to get heard by the major industry players and legislators. In the rest of world, there are performance rights for artists. We need a campaign to get this in effect.