Freedom To Share ccMixter Remix Event
I'm very inspired and excited about the ccMixter 'Freedom to Share' Remix Event. This is our community's response to ASCAP's false claim that Creative Commons licensing undermines copyright and artist royalties. I will personally attest, as an artist -- this is just not true. The more I create and share at ccMixter, the more other licensing opportunities come to me (for which ASCAP represents me).
I've been a member of ASCAP since 1995. I would love to see: 1) ASCAP retract its letter to its members asking for money to fight Creative Commons; 2) Paul Williams correct his statement once he understands copyleft a bit more; 3) an apology be issued to Creative Commons, EFF and Public Knowledge; and 4) an effort made to move forward together -- to help artists continue to find new ways to support themselves in an ever-changing world.
As one of their own artists, I would take the time to meet with ASCAP in New York -- and patiently and respectfully show them how it really works.
I've found that by sharing my Works under Creative Commons license, I have been blessed with some of the most valuable creative partnerships of my career thus far. I've found that with producers, songwriters, fans and friends interacting with my music 'source' -- creations beyond my own vision have been born. My original creation is still mine. But the new works created as a by-product are, well, ours. And I don't take issue to sharing with those that share with me.
I want to make a living as an artist. I think we as musicians and the music business on the whole need to keep working to create new ways to make that possible for musicians. I am committed to it. But one thing I won't do? Criminalize someone who actually wants to listen to one of my songs -- or share one of my songs with someone else. That person just became my fan!
I look forward to sharing my poem for Freedom to Share with you all soon and can't wait to hear yours. I love Creative Commons licenses -- because you can cut, mix and mash my works, but you are required to Attribute me and anyone else that participates. That's a credit you can't buy or take away!
Peace.
