The Mp3 is MPEG Layer 3 audio, which basically means CD quality music that's compressed small enough to allow comfortable downloading over the Internet. There is easily-accessed software which allows the user to "rip" tracks from a CD, then compress it into the MP3 format. An average album on a CD takes up about 600 MB of space, while an album compressed in the MP3 format takes about 50 (!). Anyway, people began to put up songs that they "ripped" from CD's, songs that people were paying for can now be downloaded right off the 'Net. That is until now. Apparently, Geffen Records is cracking down on these MP3 sites, citing protection of the artists and a campaign against censorship (?) as their reasons. Basically, it comes down to the record companies taking a small bite in their profit margins. Here's a representative of Geffen Records, Jim Griffin, declaring his reasons and not-so-subtly threatening anyone who downloads MP3's or has them up to be downloaded. Click here to read his letter.
The webmaster of Dimension Music is working closely with Jim Griffin of Geffen Records and other major record labels in an attempt to "legally" distribute MP3's, first starting with 30 second clips to illustrate its potential and then eventually moving to distribution of full-length songs and albums (for free? not sure). Go there to find out more.
If you're interested in the issue of copyright infringement on the Internet, click on Laws of the 'Net - What you don't know CAN hurt you.
MP3 Layer 3 Sounds - This MP3 site has lots of different MP3's far from the normal "pop" stuff (though it does have links to the pop stuff). There are a lot of interesting recordings and great links, so if you like exploring different sounds and music, click the pic.
Reichan's Music Headquarters - This sight has Japanese Pop, Cantonese Pop, and Mandarin Pop Mp3's if that's your thang (it will also be a lot easier to see what you're getting if you have Chinese or Japanese Language browsers.. anyway, check it out, if you're into A-Mei, Speed, and the lemon tree.
Music Station - Check this site for even more Chinese Pop songs and lots of WinAmp stuff (needs NJSTar and 
