Tom Blish,

Remember, although I am a traditional musician, I am neither a performer nor a composer.

My question was asked out of real curiousity.

I certainly agree that we cannot "rule out common law and ethics."

But in the real world we cannot rule out consequences either.

Remember also that I know nothing about the Sam Smith's affair. I'm a curious yank.

That said,
If I were a performer,
and a significant number of possible venues were closed to me because of a decision made by Sam Smith management
on the basis of PRS policy,
I'd ask myself if I were better off after the event than before the event.

I'd ask that question, but I don't know what my answer would be.

Russ (Permanent GUEST and AMATEUR musician)