Download statistics

The impact of illegal downloads on music sales and box office revenues has long been a controversial topic. Whether illegal downloading has played a major role in the decline of music sales in recent years or hasn't, we should consider the impact that the decline in sales is having on those who earn a living making music. The following graph shows the number of recorded music shipments in the US from 1999-2009 and the level of employment in the music industry over the corresponding period.

Discussion

1. What has been the trend in recorded music shipments in the US from 1999 to 2009?
2. What has been the trend in the employment of musicians and artists in the US from 1999 to 2009?
3. Do you think there is a link between the two and, if so, why?