Many songwriters DO post their lyrics on their websites these days, & sometimes the actual Music. Some years back, when I couldn't find my own "Paul, . . ." book with The Wedding Song which my brother wanted for my neice's wedding at the eleventh hour & I didn't have time to write it out for him, I went on Noel Stookey's own site, & there was the sheet music with his blessings!

I think that most of the time 'Catters are sharing info about tunes/songs in the public domain. The few times someone asks for lyrics &/or chords we might consider doing more pm-ing. On the quite unusual occasion that I have looked for for lyrics &/or chords on the www for a song not in the public domain, it was for my own personal enjoyment, or maybe once or twice when I was getting ready to do some old time songs at the local nursing home.

   The only time I ever asked on the Mudcat for some Music is when I had to do a specific song requested by a family for their mother's funeral--& it could not be found locally at a Music shop. A wonderful "Catter faxed a copy to me, instead of posting it--I actually needed to be able to read the melody notes, & the accompanist, the piano part. I would never expect anyone to post actual "sheet Music" copies or copywrited tunes/songs on this or any other site--unless, of course, it was with the proper permission.   

I guess that if we use discretion, this issue will not get out of hand, & we 'Catters will continue to be about Traditional Music, while upholding respect for those who make their living with their copyrights.

   ***guest, Jennifer, incorrect lyrics drive me bonkers, too!