(entry last updated: 2002-07-13 22:54:49)

MSNBC documents the rise in MPAA attacks on file sharing, and the LA Times gives some perspective on Michael Jackson’s attack on Sony, notable for the detailed discussion of recording contracts and promotion costs. Jamie Kellner’s back out there scaring people. Robert Cringeley still isn’t buying the latest Palladium spin. And Homer Simpson recommends buying a multi-regional DVD player!

Late night additions from Slashdot: Harvey Reid raises some interesting issues about artist representation in the CARP webcasting royalty dispute. And there are rumors about RoadRunner blocking KaZaa ports

(7 items listed below)

• MSNBC gives thorough coverage of the MPAA’s current strategies to curb movie file sharing - sniffing out sharers and getting ISPs to order them to stop or lose their service. The Iowa University story is particularly notable, as is the indication that the companies are going after individuals. Slashdot discussion
• Michael Jackson’s attack on Sony gets a detailed look in the LA Times [registration required] (also some seediness in the Jackson camp). What is particularly notable are the financial details on promotion costs in the industry today.
• Jamie Kellner of Turner Broadcasting is back out there, now saying that DVRs are the end of free TV
• Although Fox is spinning it for the BBC, the 4th page of the Q&A at the Fox UK Simpsons WWW site promoting the new DVD collection has Homer recommending multi-regional DVD players - the only type I’ll ever consider!
• Robert Cringeley isn’t buying the recent Palladium spin.
• Harvey Reid has posted an open letter to his e-mail list, arguing that webcasting is an important outlet for independent musicians to distribute their work, and CARP is going to end it. A call to arms. Slashdot discusses: Carp-Free Independent Music Labels
• Why I went for DSL - RoadRunner Blocking Use of Kazaa