Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic has joined Bono and the anti file-sharing discussion, arguing that the "information wants to be free" mentality is ripping off artists and, ultimately, short-changing fans:

Here's why I agree with Bono on the idea of compensation for content providers: Content needs to be worth something if anybody is going to care about it. Free content will ultimately resemble, well, free content.

Look at it from a venture capitalist's perspective: Somebody bet big bucks on a film like Avatar. They invested many millions to develop cutting-edge motion-picture technology that would dazzle enough people to make their money back and then some. Now imagine Avatar in context of the YouTube model--a shaky camcorder with hand-held G.I. Joe and Barbie dolls. Which would you pay for?

Novoselic goes on to suggest that Internet successes like YouTube and Twitter are successful at the expense of musicians.

Here's an example of what Novoselic is talking about - Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit, uploaded to YouTube in 80's VHS glory by "pogoking".....and viewed over 31 million times:

What do you think? Has Novoselic added anything to the discussion over file-sharing? Or is he just another "over-rewarded rock star"?

Link:

• Krist Novoselic on Why I Agree With Bono

James Lewin
Twitter @podcasting_news

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