The Music Industry’s Billionaire Bully Tries to Sue Verizon Out of Its Wallet
The so-called "rights holders" at powerful record labels are at it again, trying to extract a whopping $2.6 BILLION from Verizon by allegedly ignoring their customers’ copyright infringements. Yes, you read that right – $2.6 BILLION.
According to the lawsuit, filed yesterday, the labels claim they have been sending Verizon nearly 350,000 infringement notices since 2020, allegedly for ignoring people repeatedly sharing illegal files. But let’s be real, how many of those notices have been legitimate? Have any of the labels ever stopped to ask themselves why their customers might be forced to turn to piracy in the first place?
The labels claim they can prove that Verizon has earned millions in revenue from subscribers who prioritize faster internet speeds over streaming music legally. But doesn’t this just sound like a case of finger-pointing and scapegoating? The real question is: should the music industry be responsible for compensating Verizon for its lost "revenue" when they, themselves, have failed to adapt to the changing music landscape?
A Conspiracy of Silence
The labels have slapped Verizon with both contributory and vicarious copyright infringement charges. So, what does this mean? Essentially, they’re saying that Verizon has failed to uphold its "safe haven" role, allowing its subscribers to pirate content without consequence. But is this the truth, or just another spin to deflect attention from the labels’ own failures?
As we examine the list of 17,335 allegedly pirated tracks, one cannot help but wonder if these aren’t just convenient excuses for labels to squeeze every last cent from unsuspecting customers. Where were these labels when streaming services revolutionized the music industry? Have they spent any effort creating music people actually want to listen to, or is this just a desperate attempt to cling to a dying business model?
A Desperate Attempt to Maintain Power
This lawsuit reeks of desperation. The music industry has consistently fought against the changing tides, fearing the loss of their control. But the truth is, consumers crave convenience, and they will always seek out the cheapest and easiest way to access their favorite tunes – even if that means turning to the illegal underground.
So, let’s all take a step back and think this through. Are we really suggesting that Verizon, an ISP provider, should be held responsible for its subscribers’ actions? Shouldn’t the labels be taking a good hard look at their own practices before pointing fingers?
Stay vigilant, folks. This could get ugly.
