What’s New Oct 2003
“Piracy”…the word means may different things to many different people. For purposes of this writing “piracy” means the illegal copying of Karaoke discs. It is a serious problem that both haunts and hurts the entire Karaoke industry. What does “piracy” mean in real terms? It means that Karaoke “software” is more expensive than it should be…it means fewer songs are available…it means some “software” manufacturers may be driven out of business…it means potential disaster for all who love Karaoke.
This controversial issue is fraught with disinformation, misunderstanding of the law and emotion. It is difficult to adequately deal with this subject without a source of reliable information. For this reason we have decided to devote a sizable portion of the next two episodes of our internet radio show, “That’s Karaoke,” to “piracy” as it pertains to the Karaoke industry (these would be episodes #4 & #5).
In episode #4 we have an interview with the General Manager of Sound Choice, Mr. Tom Turner. He discusses the issue with frankness and honesty and imparts important information regarding what is legal and what is not. In episode #5 we will be talking to Mr. Christian Nelson of Priddis Music for a different perspective on the subject. Please listen as this topic is of such immediate importance.
Also in episode #4 is a segment dealing with Karaoke for seniors. It is a truly touching part of the Karaoke Scene and we think you will enjoy hearing from those who bring the joy of Karaoke and its therapeutic effects to our senior citizens. It is a very good thing to know that Karaoke has something to offer to all age groups.
To enjoy our internet radio show, just click on the “That’s Karaoke” link on the home page or in the navigation menu on the left side of any page (please make sure you have a current media player…download links are provided on the “That’s Karaoke” page). If you have any comments or questions regarding our streamcasts please send your emails to letters@ThatsKaraoke.com and perhaps they will be read or discussed on a future show. Please include your name and town.
On a lighter note, with the Karaoke industry gearing up for the holidays there are plenty of good buys out there for everybody. Hardware, software, supplies…you name it…the good deals are all out there. Be sure to check with our fine advertisers as they continue to make Karaoke more available and affordable for all.
And all of a sudden there seems to be singing competitions everywhere…it must be the season. Karaoke venues all over Southern California are staging contests of every description (including Karaoke/Halloween costume contests)…and there’s a lot of money and prizes at stake, too! We plan to check some of these events out and take some photos for the next issue so maybe we’ll see you out there on the town.
We’d like to extend our best wishes and good luck to Art & Lori Johnson & Donna Thomas for their respective fundraisers taking place in October & November. Art & Lori’s event on October 26th in Redondo Beach benefits The California Kids Healthcare Foundation; Donna’s annual shebang is at the Town Tavern in Buena Park on November 8th with their proceeds (money & toys) going to Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles.
And, finally, I would like to personally thank all of you in the Karaoke community who have been so supportive of Karaoke Scene Magazine and KaraokeScene.com in furthering our goal of promoting Karaoke and all of its positive aspects. Your support means a great deal to all of us here at Karaoke Scene.
