Downloading Music
For a few years, it probably felt like you had a special secret: you could download music for free from the Internet. Now, the record industry has uncovered the “secret” of illegal downloading, shared by you and millions of others, and it is not happy. Fortunately, if you know where to go, you can avoid getting sued and still find plenty of music online. For a Spanish-language version of the Guide, click here.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat is Illegal Music Downloading?
The film “Empire Records” might give you the impression that stealing music can lead to ... read more »
Legal Music Downloading Sites
The dangers of illegal downloading might frighten you into digging up your old cassette player or scouring thrift shops for a turntable, but try not to panic. Take a deep breath and put your headphones back on; there are plenty of sites where you can still download music with the blessing of the recording industry and the law.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Beware of sites like MPFree. It promises free downloads, but if you read the Membership Agreement you’ll find that to earn free music, you must respond to pitches from advertisers and recruit new members.
- The findingDulcinea Music Web Guide and Radio Web Guide both offer suggestions for purchasing and listening to music online. Or check findingDulcinea’s Netcetera section for the biweekly “Playlist” column, where you’ll find music recommendations and tips for listening online.
Dulcinea's Picks
To learn about legal music downloading …
The BBC
’s “How to Download Music” tutorial provides a comprehensive look at the technology and services involved with downloading. Some of the sites in the “Where to Go To Download” section can only be accessed by British users, but many are available to everyone.
For a list of legal music downloading sites …
The RIAA
has a list of completely legal sites that offer music online. It’s directed at parents and educators who want to monitor children’s Internet use, but it’s a valuable resource for anyone who doesn’t want to break the law.
For free downloads …
Download.com
bears the CNET seal and guarantees safe downloads that are both free and spyware-free. Gain access to more than 110,000 downloadable songs as well as additional songs available for streaming, plus music forums and news.
To explore music online …
Entertainment Weekly
’s 2006 feature “The 25 Best Music Websites” mentions basic downloading sites, niche record stores, music blogs, and online zines that post MP3s. It includes sites for almost all genres, and it’s an excellent way to find free downloads, stream a few tracks before you sample an album, learn about new stores or read reviews.
The Guardian
’s “Special report: Digital music” names numerous sites where you can download or stream music legally. Some of the sites, such as the iTunes UK store, aren’t accessible outside the U.K., but many of them are.
For college students …
Ruckus
is a media service that offers free music and movie download services to college students. Several colleges and universities are now allowing the service on campuses where downloading was previously prohibited.
To avoid scam sites …
The Center for Democracy and Technology
publishes a list of scam sites that charge users money but fail to deliver downloads or aren’t authorized to sell music. The list was last updated in 2007, but the page includes warning signs to help you assess new sites you encounter.
© 2009 Dulcinea Media, Inc.
