Does the emergence of the digital download signal the end of the music industry?

Piracy in music is nothing new. Generations have found ways of enjoying music without paying for it for years. In the 70s and 80s children recorded songs off the radio, rather then paying for the singles or albums. At the time it was seen as the biggest threat to the music industry, much like illegal downloads today. But does the fact the industry recovered once before, mean that are concerns over downloads are pointless?

Illegal downloads pose a much greater threat as its choice is both vast and of good quality. However it is wrong to say that the music industry will end. itunes reached its 10 billionth sale in february 2010, proving that people still want to buy music.

However what is clear is that the quality of music will suffer. Emerging bands and artists will inevitably find it harder to support themselves through live sets alone. Causing good quality music to die.