Everyone has heard that the sales of recorded music are declining. What are the real reasons for this? The five major companies that have more than 90% of the market speak with one voice through their Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). They have one view, which puts much of the blame on the downloading of free music over the net.

An opposing view is from a company called MacWizards Music and its spokesperson George Zieman. He uses the RIAA's own published statistics to show that the major recording companies: 1.) Reduced supply; 2.) Reduced investment; 3.) Reduced marketing; and, 4.) Raised prices.

According to Zieman's take on the RIAA stats, the number of new releases offered for sale has fallen roughly 25% over two years. During the same period, the amount of investment per release has also declined roughly 25%. The industry has essentially abandoned its primary marketing tool, the single recording. And, the average price paid per unit has gone up.

All this in the face of the worst economic conditions in a decade ... and the total dollar sales declined less than 5%. Zieman links to the RIAA numbers and invites critique of his methods at "RIAA Figures Don't Add Up To Piracy". It's a refreshing take on the prevailing wisdom (as shaped by those with a vested interest).

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