I know a guy. He is a friend I am privileged to know, and to have worked with. You know him, too, or at least you know his work. He is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is a legend, an American institution. He is not merely respected, he is revered.

But, as in many cases, time and age have taken their toll. His poor health has forced an early retirement and compiled huge medical bills. He lives on royalties. That's all there is.

This year his semi-annual royalty checks were about half what they have been for decades. Why, he asked? Illegal downloading, he was told. Record sales are way down. Sorry.

This musical icon is in bankruptcy and his home is in foreclosure.

His predicament is not caused by conspicuous consumption or an extravagant lifestyle. He simply prospered at a time when the music business did not offer the huge wealth that it does today. He lives humbly. He deserves better.

Shame on anyone who steals from this man...or from anyone else.

[This message has been edited by TrumanCoyote (edited 09-16-2003).]