Music is an entertaining way of communication. However, this doesn't mean someone has to get music from only one place. For instance, some UT students' music comes from Ruckus . Also, if one wants to see a video there is YouTube or television.

It's clearly not as important to by CDs anymore. I can get all the music I want from other resources. One might ask, when in a car, how do you get music?

I'm not big on radio, so I am usually playing mixed CDs. No, it's not bootlegging. I take the music I have on iTunes and put it on a CD or use the MP3 player.

Of course I want fans to buy CDs. How else am I supposed to make my money? But I don't buy (CDs)Charles "Tenn" Munford
So what is the recording artists' take on this? They are experiencing many setbacks, but cash flow is coming in from other places, such as endorsements and exploring outside the music industry.

However, it's not easy for up and coming music artists. UT student Charles "Tenn" Munford is an aspiring rapper and does not like the idea of people using other alternatives to get music.

"Of course I want fans to buy CDs. How else am I supposed to make my money? But I don't buy (CDs)," said Munford.

How can you expect someone to buy your music when you aren't willing to support other artists?

Many people, even artists, know that sometimes CDs do not live up to expectations. While maybe 13 to 17 songs are on a disc, one may like only 5 songs. A good way to find an alternative to buying the entire CD is purchasing the few songs you like.

If I am a fan of a particular artist, I consider buying the entire CD because I presume the whole CD will be amazing. First thing Tuesday morning I will be one of the first to purchase that CD to show support and get that great discount price.

Fans not purchasing CDs affect artists. Some artists make deals with online music sources to still get a percentage of funds for their songs sold.

Next time I pull up Ruckus or play an MP3, I will think of the many artists I love. I enjoy the music, but I don't enjoy spending money for something I am not sure is worth it.