Facebook's Role in Internet Piracy

How much does a 'Free Download' really cost? 

Facebook has entered the ring of free music downloads. What makes this instance unique is that it provided by the artists themselves! One might ask, why would artists assist in the 'pirating' their music? The logic behind this process is that in rewarding fans by giving giving "them access to free content such as MP3s” (diymusician).

Chris Webby's Fan Page has help him expand his fan base

“Engaging fans is one way to keep them happy; rewarding them is another”, and that is exactly how to help promote ones music (Mashable). Obviously once a song is of a certain amount of popularity, the artist removes the option for free download but by that time the song is popular the fan is willing buy the song. What is amazing about Facebook is it ability to help someone expand their reach in a short time due to the web theory. By having downloaders post that they have 'liked' on their page, you have just had the chance to have impressions with all of that user's active "friends". It is exposure in exchange for free product. 

Ever since I was young, I usually was one of the first enjoyers of new music. To today's vernacular, I was a 'hipster' for music (and still to this day). WIth this obsession with finding the hidden gems, I am privy to free downloads on fan pages before it has reached the max 'free download' limit. My viewing (and other pioneers like me), however, facilitate that artist's growth. So I guess its a win-win>