May 1, 2000, 1:55 pm PT

Chuck D

"The day of the one-dimensional naïve artist is over..." and so begins Chuck D's defense of Napster. The Public Enemy frontman expressed his pro-MP3 views in an editorial published by the New York Times Saturday (April 29).

The outspoken rapper says downloading music has caused a much-needed revolution in the music industry. He writes, "Companies like Napster are creating new fan interest in the acquisition of music, as well as establishing an infrastructure that previously was non-existent for unknown artists." He goes on to say, "This is a prime opportunity for artists to understand that they can operate beyond the naïve slave or limited employment positions of the old music business templates."

Chuck D calls the copyright infringement suits filed by Metallica and Dr. Dre "nothing but cases used to support yet another lawyer looking to preserve the prehistoric existence of contracts past. They are the exception to the rule, almost adopting the principals of the masters that pay them." The full manifesto can be read at publicenemy.com.

Last July, Atomic Pop released Public Enemy's There's a Poison Goin' On on MP3. Meanwhile, Chuck D's Rapstation.com has partnered with Napster for a songwriting contest. Aspiring lyricists can write their own words for the Chuck D track, "Power to the People and the Beats." It's suggested that the lyrics support shared music.

-- Donna DeChristopher

Chuck D.
Dr. Dre
Metallica
Public Enemy

Comments, scoops: allstarEditors@cdnow.com