Well, it's a difficult issue, but I'd hate to see us back down and delete any song that might have a copyright. Heck, I suppose somebody has tried to copyright most of the Child Ballads. I'd like to see the entire issue resolved in a positive way, a way that would resolve all these attempts at repression that have gone on over the last few years, ever since people started posting songs on the Internet.
I'd like to think that most of the people at NMPA and the Harry Fox Agency and similar organizations are decent, honorable people, trying to do a decent, honorable thing. I know there are a lot of people who would disagree with me on that, but hear me out - most of the people we take the time to get to know are decent people, aren't they? Why should these people be any different? I think we need to talk with them on their terms, and convince them that what we do is a service to them and the songwriters they represent. What we do helps to keep good songs alive.
This problem is not going to go away until it is resolved in a way that is satisfactory to everyone. It will take some open-mindedness and generosity on all sides, but I think it can be done. I know this may sound overly idealistic, but I think a peaceable solution may well be a much better remedy than continued antagonism. I think we have to take the high road, and I think that Max and Dick and Susan have been doing exactly that.
-Joe Offer-