week 6 - Is DRM (data rights management) the best way to save the music industry?

In 1999 Shawn Fanning and two friends created download website Napster. This meant that people could access and own music for free without having to go out and buy a single. It was suggested it was going to be the death of the music industry as nobody would buy music from now on. DRM was introduced in an attempt to minimize illegal downloading and boost record sales. However, figures show that downlloads havent actually affected record sales, and in some cases have even helped them out because it has allowed audiences to preview the music, as in the case of radiohead in America. Despite DRM, dozens of download sites still exist, and almost any song is freely available to anyone. Therefor, I would confidently say that DRM reduces illegal downloading, but doesnt stop it completely. It cant save the industry, as there are loads of ways around it, but I dont think the industry is in need of saving anway.