David Cook > Illegally downloading David Cook's music

Jenna

May 31 2008, 06:32 AM

QUOTE

I've been thinking about this friend of mine. She is a huge fan of David Cook and she downloaded all the songs from Analog Heart from the internet without paying for them. She had been reading post on numerous sites where people were waxing rhapsodical about the songs and she felt that she must have them right away. Analog Heart had been pulled from the market a few days earlier -- otherwise she would have paid for it.

This has created something of an ethical dilemma for my friend. She knows it is illegal to download music without paying for it. She also believes strongly that musicians should earn their rightful profits from their labors. She feels that she has cheated David Cook (a man she has the greatest respect for) and this isn't sitting well with her.

I suggested to my friend that she make a donation to charity of $1.00 for every song she downloaded. What do you think about this idea? Is it reasonable? Does anybody know of a charity that DC supports that she could send this donation to?

First and foremost, several of you have posted that your advice to this individual would be to donate the price of the CD or each song to the American Cancer Society. I want to say to you that this speaks volumes to how genuine of a fan you are. Not only do you believe this is what David would want, but you didn't even hesitate to tell this person that paying for it is the right thing to do. For that, I personally thank you.

I made a phone call this morning regarding this topic. For anyone who is having an ethical dilemma because they have downloaded David's music without paying for it, here is what has been suggested to you:

Whatever amount of money will put your conscience to rest, send in the form of a donation to the American Cancer Society.

ajpr2

May 31 2008, 06:38 AM

Can you post the donation mailing details for the American Cancer Society? Do we send to a local chapter or some place nationally?

Thanks.

BLake

May 31 2008, 06:50 AM

Jenna, thank you so much for helping us navigate this important topic! Your guidance, as always, is greatly appreciated.

As someone who is still on the journey toward survival, I am humbled by the guidance provided by David's family on his behalf -- and to the DC fans who continue to prove that they have the biggest hearts in the world!

With ACS, you can designate locally or nationally, and you can designate a specific use. For those of you in the working world, don't forget about your company's matching gifts program!

Contribute via the Cook Fans Conquering Cancer American Cancer Society page here.

Stefanie

May 31 2008, 07:51 AM

thanks, i am going to send in a donation to the american cancer society,

tvqueen

May 31 2008, 07:55 AM

This is an amazing thing to do!

Does anyone know where to get the Lindsey Rose bracelets? I thinking about buying a few and contributing to the ACS

Stefanie

May 31 2008, 07:57 AM

where it says on the online form, it says "cardholder's name" what do i put?

tvqueen

May 31 2008, 08:00 AM

Stefanie, you put the name on the credit card

Melrose

May 31 2008, 08:04 AM

What a touching idea. I downloaded some songs from AI that I didn't have from iTunes, so I'll definitley be donating.

caro511

May 31 2008, 08:09 AM

Thanks Jenna - That is a great idea.

I illegally downloaded his Analog Heart CD first, but then I was able to find it legally on another site after it was pulled from Amazon so I was able to purchase it this way - I just wanted to make sure that his music was rightfully paid for. Must be part of the DC charm because I have never had too much of a problem with illegal downloads - especially when David Cooks music is unavailable in our itunes store. I might have to make a donation for each of his American Idol songs that I downloaded from this site as I was unable to purchase them in Australia's itunes.

movin2thabeet

May 31 2008, 08:16 AM

This is a cool idea, until Analog Heart comes back into availability. Then, the best thing you could possibly do is purchase a copy. It will help David enormously. Not only will he see some portion of that money, but his label and the music industry will be able to see how much people like the CD. This will be critical for helping DC get out the music that he is writing and creating.

hookedoncook

May 31 2008, 09:53 AM

Thanks Jenna,

I'll be making my donation today. This has been bothering me for some time so it will be nice to finally be able to do the "right thing".

MontanaWordNerd

May 31 2008, 10:21 AM

That is great! Thank you so much Jenna! I wanted David's Analog Heart songs myself but there was nowhere to get them unless I downloaded them for free. I definitely would like to donate money to the American Cancer Society for those songs, especially because cancer has hit very close to home with me personally, as well as affecting so many people I know and of course, David and his family. Thanks again!

mabic

May 31 2008, 10:37 AM

how does this work for fans outside the US?

KatieUrbs

May 31 2008, 10:37 AM

This is truly amazing.
It makes me even prouder to be a Cookie fan =)

makeover_

May 31 2008, 10:46 AM

Wow.. that's amazing. =]

YoungAgain

May 31 2008, 11:03 AM

I posted the item that Jenna quoted about my "friend" (aka me). I appreciate all of the good advice I received from other members of the community. I also thank Jenna for following up regarding charities that David supports.

I am so pleased to donate to the American Cancer Society. It is particularly meaningful to me because not only did my mother die of glioblastoma, the most virulent form of brain cancer, I have a friend who is currently battling a glioma.

In addition to my donation the the ACS I will purchase the Analog Heart CD as soon as it is re-released.

I'm off now to enjoy the music with a clean conscience.

bestCookaround

May 31 2008, 11:09 AM

I went to the ACS site to make a donation and you can actually send a donation in honor of someone. Would really like to put it in DC's brother's name - is there an address that ACS can send the cards to? Would like ACS to know this is in honor of David and his family. If there isn't an address, I'm just going to put their names on it and send it.

Cassandra

May 31 2008, 12:50 PM

Great idea.

David's fans truly are the best!

Stefanie

May 31 2008, 02:48 PM

i am definitely donating today

angelmichelle*

May 31 2008, 03:11 PM

What's the address?
I want to put a portion of my summer job in it- & donate.
I truely think this is amazingg. [:

denise_kc

May 31 2008, 03:14 PM

Thank you Jenna! I was able to purchase most of the songs I've downloaded, with the exception of some Analog Heart songs. I have been wanting to do something about that because it just felt like he should "get" something from it. So, I will also be making a donation. And most definitely will be purchasing the entire AH album if/when it is re-released.

armychick34

May 31 2008, 04:04 PM

Another reason I love this community! I think that it is a wonderful reflection as to our moral fiber. And cudos to you Jenna (and the other administrators) to be unafraid to address this touchy subject.

I know that as a huge fan/supporter of David and his music, I want him to reap all of the benefits for sharing his amazing gift with us.

It is incredibly honest to first admit that you did something that you knew was wrong, but then make it right.

YOU GO WORD-NERDS!!!!!!!

All the best,

Jessica

Jax

May 31 2008, 05:10 PM

As someone who has lost a brother and her father to cancer, has a cancer-surviving mother and has done volunteer work for my local ACS - THANK YOU!!!! It warms my heart to see people doing the right thing

AussieCookieChick

May 31 2008, 05:14 PM

I will admit that I downloaded Analog Heart and I have struggled with the guilt since I have done it. Of course I would have preferred to buy that album legally (and if it is re-released again I will definitely buying it!!!) but since the only way was download I had to give in.

Thank so much Jenna for this wonderful idea and I am now making a donation in honour of David, Adam and Andrew ...

speedmouse

May 31 2008, 05:31 PM

Wow, what an amazing group of fans. I've never seen a community like this one before (and I've been on a few fan sites in my time). You all ROCK!

ShandiLovesDC

May 31 2008, 05:41 PM

that is SUCH a good idea!!!

babe1941

May 31 2008, 06:16 PM

Thank you for this information and the link!
I downloaded both his albums free after trying to find them on Amazon, Ebay, etc

I just donated in the name of David Cook and had the card sent to me and I'm sure I'll be able to hand it over to his staff at one of the concerts.

WHEW! I feel better now!
DAVID!!! You really need to re-release your music!

Bette B.

mckara

May 31 2008, 08:08 PM

Just a thought guys. When I made my donations about a month ago (after downloading analog heart) I made in David's name. I thought it only appropriate since it was his album I downloaded and it means so much to him. I am glad to hear that you checked on this for us Jenna, it is much appreciated.

wyldatheart

May 31 2008, 09:32 PM

This is wonderful! My hat is off to Jenna for suggesting it and so many for following up.
I donated to the Canadian Cancer Society relay for life--it's just easier than trying to donate cross borders, i find. I'm sure DC wouldn't mind.

miss.gee

May 31 2008, 10:06 PM

The reason i downloaded it bc i couldn't find AH in local stores <and not afford it to buy via amazon>. I think i'd send donation to cancer society in my country, what do u think guys, is that ok?

Cookey's Fan

May 31 2008, 10:22 PM

Thanks for the note, Jenna! If there were to be an alternative option, I would rather buy the CD than download it. But as the only option to listen to the album was to download it ... ah well.

I've sent in my donation to the ACS - giving back is the one thing I can at least do.

smallville

May 31 2008, 11:13 PM

QUOTE (mabic @ May 31 2008, 11:37 AM)

how does this work for fans outside the US?

yep. same question. i got my analog heart songs from a forum and would like to give something back.

it would be better if we can indicate in the donation that we are doing this on David Cook's behalf. and that the American Cancer Society could somehow inform DC what his fans (from this message board) are doing. that the DC fans are not just supporting DC as an artist but all the noble causes he believes in.

i just got a new credit card but i'm afraid to use it over the internet for it might not be secured. shall i just ask my relative or friend in the US to make the donation?

simplyglamrous

Jun 1 2008, 05:41 AM

I think this is incredible, and I'm really proud to be apart of this group, as well as really proud to be a fan of David's.

bestCookaround

Jun 1 2008, 06:03 AM

I made a donation in honor of Adam Cook and I had the card sent to: David Cook
c/o American Idol
7800 Beveryly Blvd.
Suite 251
Los Angeles, CA. 90036
I figure someone will get it and at least ACS will know what it's for. I too downloaded some of his music and although I will buy it when it comes out, I do feel better about doing this! Thanks so much for the idea! I hope people do it just because it's something David supports and I'm sure most of us have been touched by!

cookiepack

Jun 1 2008, 08:58 AM

Hey, very new at this. I am a complete idiot when it comes to technology. You may not can tell me this but I really want Analog Heart and I don't want to wait. I know someone mentioned limewire. I looked but don't understand too much about it and am worried about viruses, etc. I would gladly donate to the ACS and buy the actual album if/when it comes out. Can anyone help me out, maybe explain limewire a little bit or suggest other options? Thanks!

Stefanie

Jun 1 2008, 10:43 AM

I sent my donation.

I am so happy for doing that

albacookie

Jun 1 2008, 11:34 AM

Thanks for doing this, being outside the US the only way to acsess David's music was to download it.

Not sure if I can donate to ACS from here but if not it will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care as they helped look after my gran.

And should his albums be re-released I'll certainly be buying them.

Miss Nickie

Jun 1 2008, 04:23 PM

I made a donation to the ACS. And I also make regular donations to Marie Curie Cancer Care, as I have a payment plan set up with them and have been doing that since I was 17 (9 years going strong!)

britchick

Jun 1 2008, 04:55 PM

I bought my copy of Analog Heart while it was still available on Amazon but i'll gladly match the cost of the downloads and donate that to the ACS.

jovi86

Jun 1 2008, 06:28 PM

QUOTE (britchick @ Jun 1 2008, 09:55 PM)

I bought my copy of Analog Heart while it was still available on Amazon but i'll gladly match the cost of the downloads and donate that to the ACS.

me too! Great idea!!!!

cookieismybaby

Jun 1 2008, 06:46 PM

I just donated! I'm glad someone brought this up, because I felt guilty too! I really wanted David to get something since I downloaded Analog Heart over the internet.

D Girl

Jun 1 2008, 09:00 PM

Thanks for posting this....and for all the suggestions. I have also suffered from guilt

I desperately wanted AH and I wanted DC to get credit and recognition....this is a great alternative until the CD is up for purchase again (and I am really hopeful that it will be available again)!

THANKS!

JerseyGirl2

Jun 1 2008, 10:35 PM

QUOTE (bestCookaround @ Jun 1 2008, 10:03 AM)

I made a donation in honor of Adam Cook and I had the card sent to: David Cook
c/o American Idol
7800 Beveryly Blvd.
Suite 251
Los Angeles, CA. 90036
I figure someone will get it and at least ACS will know what it's for. I too downloaded some of his music and although I will buy it when it comes out, I do feel better about doing this! Thanks so much for the idea! I hope people do it just because it's something David supports and I'm sure most of us have been touched by!

Thank you for the address. I have felt a bit conflicted about downloading Analog Heart as well, I don't usually have a problem with trading for fan-based concert downloads, but published music is a quite a different thing.

I was planning to purchase an official copy when it came out so that David wasn't cheated out of his share. But this is a wonderful way to give back, and by sending the cards to David at AI, we can let him know that his music can and will make a difference, which is what he wanted.

DC.u.ROCKS

Jun 2 2008, 12:16 AM

That's really a good idea!

lynta

Jun 2 2008, 06:38 AM

i admit i was also download it, and i was so exited and felt ungilty before i read this forum...
okay, i live outside US so i don't know what to do... here are in my thought : i won't sell it to anyone and i will buy the LEGAL album when it come out here and pray..
thanks for reminding, it's such a great site!!
GOd bless[color="#800080"][/color]

Agent Krycek

Jun 2 2008, 08:10 AM

I'm outside the US as well, my solution was to donate, in the UK, to the Marie Curie Nurses who provide home nursing for those with cancer and other terminal illnesses - and if we ever get the chance to get AH legally and pay for it, I'll be more then happy to do that as well.

Thanks Jenna for finding this out for all of us.

DanielleInTulsa

Jun 2 2008, 10:04 AM

This is a great idea!

I also wanted to say this:

Thanks for being a community of fans willing to help make a difference. I am so glad Dave and his fans/friends can use his talent & new found celebrity status to GIVE BACK!

telcochik

Jun 2 2008, 10:34 AM

This is such a great suggestion so I just made my donation. The message I sent to David was:

To thank you for the gift of your music, I want to honor you and your brother, Adam, by making a donation to the American Cancer Society.

Even if David doesn't receive the card, I feel so much better knowing the money I would have spent legally downloading his music (if it was available to do so) is now going to a great cause.

This fandom rocks!

hempp

Jun 2 2008, 11:45 AM

Downloading his songs legally wasn't possible for me (visa electron doesn't work on iTunes), and I have thought how to "pay back" to him, and thanks for you Jenna, I know how to do it now! I only need to wait until I have money to do the donation.

mizsahara

Jun 2 2008, 02:23 PM

QUOTE (DanielleInTulsa @ Jun 2 2008, 11:04 AM)

This is a great idea!

I also wanted to say this:

Thanks for being a community of fans willing to help make a difference. I am so glad Dave and his fans/friends can use his talent & new found celebrity status to GIVE BACK!

This newbie says thanks for posting the link to purchase the the DC wrist bands. Just ordered several. I also plan to donate to the ACS in David and Adam's names. I imagine we've all been touched in some way by this horrible disease so it's great that people are making donations to help fight it.

I've also made an appt for my physical and will be getting that mammogram I've been putting off!!
Sandi