New column: Paying for music? It's a crazy idea, but it just might work

Tell me, do you feel more virtuous these days? More law-abiding? The recording industry seems to think you are, and they've certainly never been wrong before.

According to a report from the International Federation of Phonographic Industries -- those whacky kids -- the number of legal music downloads during the first half of 2005 was three times higher than during the same period last year, while the dastardly efforts of illegal file swapping pirates only increased a very little teeny bit. Industry representatives are seizing this as proof that their heavy-handed legal attacks and constant anti-piracy tirades are having some effect besides annoying the bejesus out of their customers.

"We are now seeing real evidence that people are increasingly put off by illegal file-sharing and turning to legal ways of enjoying music online," said John Kennedy, IFPI chairman and lead vocalist. "Whether it's the fear of getting caught breaking the law, or the realization that many networks could damage your home PC, attitudes are changing, and that is good news for the whole music industry."

I almost hate to ruin Mr. Kennedy's dream world.

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