Okay KDR, point taken. Now see mine. I'm independent, meaning that I have no affiliation to any major labels. Internet sales are tax free, and when I'm pushing units in the street and doing shows, that money is no different than if I was slangin' that yay, meaning that if you don't report it, you ain't got it. So far, I don't see the RIAA involved in any of this. If I were to go major, then I guess I would have to play along, but that is no different than going to my day job right now and putting up with everyone elses crap that I have to put up with. It's all relevant, that's all I'm saying.
It also depends on what kind of deal said artist negotiates/signs. If they're eager beaver about it, yeah, you'll get screwed. If you're a new artist going major, expect a little screwing, but if you're smart, you'll push for a short deal....just long enough to make your name so that when your free agency comes up, they are ready to play YOUR game, feel me?