The Songwriters Association of Canada (SAC) has released a new proposal to charge Canadian Internet and wireless users $5 per month to compensate for losses due to file sharing.

The new right would make it legal to share music on peer-to-peer networks. In return, the SAC is proposing a license fee of $5.00 per Internet subscription per month.

The songwriters claim that this approach would legalize peer-to-peer file sharing, while generating new revenue (420 Million) for creators and the music industry. Songwriting and publishing associations have an opposing critical view, pointing out that many of those they represent only write music and do not perform live. (Billboard)

This proposal may look good on paper but what about the Canadians who don’t file share? Other Canadians should not pay for the crimes committed by thieves. Regardless, the governments must maintain property rights for artists even though others want to vote them away. We need legislation to protect artists and the structure of entire creative industries.

CD Sales…

Josh Groban Noel 538k
Eagles Long Road 312k
Alicia Keys As I Am 257k
Celine Dion Taking Chances 92k
Carrie Underwood Carnival Ride 89k
The Killers Sawdust 20k
Paramore Riot! 18k
Avenged Sevenfold Self Titled 12k
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