Hello Everyone, How would one go about starting up a small MP3 download site? Where would you get the music from and does it become legal because your charging people for the music instead of giving it out for free? Thanks to everyone that helps!
Well you'll have to inform the people whose music you are selling (if not personally, then their Record Companies) and the rates you are charging for those. You may need to buy the MP3s yourself as well. Contact a Record Company for details on Purchase.
I'm guessing that delivering the music is only legal with the record companies permission. They will require revenue for your sales. I think that's how it works anyway. Tell me if I am wrong, Carl
Does anyone think it maybe a wise choice just to see if I could partner up with one and go white lable instead? Sounds to be a lot cheaper than going though the record companies!
too strict a copyright laws and regulations. You may distributor mp3 free with ads on each your site. it is a way to make a profit.
Going through mainstream record companies will take years and they will take a huge chunk of whatever you profits are. I would try going through individual bands and smaller labels, you might have some luck in that area.
http://cyber.law.harvard.edu/publications/1999/MP3_Copyright_Protection_for_Music_on_the_Move Its illegal, if its not meant for Personal or Home Use. Any Commercial use would have to be taken back to the music copyright owner. You can go with your white label ideas.
There is a legal way. Use affiliate programs. ITunes, Amazon and most of the major sites that provide legal MP3s have affiliate programs. Just sign up under them. You can make links to individual songs and get a commission on each one.
As someone who's had a record label for almost 10 years, I wouldn't recommend the music industry at this time. It's high risk, low return.