Barbara:

Never mind the $10. Just keep singing!

I suppose my note sounded snottier than I intended it to sound. Sure, people copy their friend's CDs; we know that. If they really can't afford to buy a copy, that's fine. On the other hand, if they are simply being frugal, it seems appropriate to remind them that all of the small labels I know of are just barely making it.

Some independent producers put a message on their various products saying, "Please don't rip this off," etc. I can understand their concern. I once stood behind our record booth at a small festival and witnessed the following:

1st fellow is selecting several records to purchase.
2nd fellow (peering over 1st fellow's shoulder) "Whatcha gettin'? Oh, neat! Can I tape 'em?"
1st fellow: "Sure. Why not?"

I could have, and probably should have told them "why not" but I chickened out and bit my tongue. I've always wished Caroline had been there. She would have told them the facts of small-label life, very sweetly, and very firmly. She's the perfect wearer of the velvet glove!

True story.

Sandy