anyway, i think the riaa knows that in certain genres mixtapes do promote artists so effectively that they can actually generate more revenue than they destroy.  but it’s a fine line because mixtapes (bootlegs) can’t be made legal across the board since almost no one would buy the more expensive “official” copies.  many stores would carry “unofficial” copies exclusively.  so they bust a store here and there knowing full well that far more stores are selling mixtapes as well.  this way, they have their cake and eat it too, so to speak.  that’s my theory at least…

Recording artists don’t get paid royalties on public performances (i.e. radio, TV, juke boxes, etc..).  It’s stated clearly in copyright law that because radio play gets the artist more money from exposure these venues shouldn’t have to pay to promote.  However, songwriters and publishers do earn royalties with air play. But not without a hitch.  Usually the record label owns the copyright of the SPECIFIC recording of a given song (the one being played).  So, often times songwriters get barely anything from radio play (having to share cash with the other copyright holders like the label) but a hope to increase record sales (where again they’ll be ripped off).  Look into organizations like BMI and ASCAP to find out more about it.

I do think record stores should be able to sell mixes.  Like radio play (you can always tape the song off the radio) I feel it helps more than hinders artists and stores.  I saw it first hand.  If the mixes weren’t there, the song wouldn’t be as popular.

“Sure, they aren’t garnishing any direct return to artists but by that same equation, neither does radio play.”

I realize it’s a small amount relative to the sale of a record, but don’t artists get royalties each time a song is played on the radio?