I confess: I downloaded a lot of songs from file-sharing networks for five years.

I don’t download songs off file-sharing networks anymore, however. I’ve been clean of peer-to-peer programs for over two years now. Instead, I prefer to buy CDs from good old brick and mortar stores.

There is something special about owning a physical copy of an album. It’s not just about the songs; it’s about the presentation of the music as a product. I’m a geek for good artwork, and I get over-excited when I find out an artist chose to include extras: lyrics, liner notes, music videos, free wallpaper, etc.

The digital copy of an album often includes digital versions of the same material, but it just doesn’t have the same feel of a well-detailed, glossy-printed album booklet.

The eco-friendly, cardboard CD sleeves don’t cut it. I might as well download the MP3s off Amazon.com— don’t ever fall for the digital rights management trap from some other music stores.

Aside from the physical copy, I think the important fact is that I’m willing to pay money for good music from professional artists.

There’s a catch to it though.

The majority of the CDs I purchase I would have never heard of if it weren’t for file-sharing networks. Napster is single-handedly responsible for my music in adolescence.

I never would’ve had the monetary means to purchase all the music I listened to as a teenager. Now, I can afford to buy most of the music I’m interested in, so I do.

Even though I’m completely law-abiding with my music, I’m afraid the threat of a lawsuit from the Recording Industry Association of America will have a chilling effect on other people who are trying to explore new kinds of music.

With legal file-sharing services such as Ruckus and Rhapsody available to college students, it’s very easy to sample a wide range of music to feed your experimental musical tastes. You can explore music legally now.

Before services such as Ruckus and Rhapsody were around, the music industry failed to tap into a market with a highly demanded product. So, the market developed the product the industry wouldn’t provide.

So, take advantage of programs like Ruckus. There are few reasons left not to. Just do me a favor and stop whining about having to pay a reasonable price for it.

You too can expand your musical interests. It’s just a lot easier to do it on the side of the law now.