In order to download music you need to have an internet connection and an operating system or somehow have the desktop icon that lets you to an online music store or something like the iTunes store. You may just be able to dial up iTunes from an online connection but I’m not sure. In either event, once you’ve gotten your connection and have found a site from where you can download there’s all sorts of fun and interesting things available to you in addition to downloading music. These include lyrics, videos, sheet music, and other artist information.

If you’re looking for free music downloads, there are a number of file sharing websites where those may be located. Though I’m never suggesting you do anything illegal, there are sites where this type of file sharing activity regularly takes place. Though if you do plan to use a file sharing site, be sure that you’re ready for the consequences of free music including downloading potentially viral files or other gunk that can rot out your hard drive.

There are free downloads available on some legitimate sites; while you can’t always download the full songs you may be able to download a number of other things including free clips of television shows, movies, and songs clips from upcoming or just released albums. Free downloads online is not only comprehensive but it also has for you songs, artists, records, TV shows, or movies you might not otherwise even notice; checking them out before spending your time and money on them is always a good idea.

While music downloads are relatively inexpensive, compared with buying actual, physical CD’s, they’re not totally cheap. Also, in addition to downloading the songs, once you’ve purchased them, you may want to back them up on either an external hard drive or make sure to burn them onto blank CD’s before you switch computers. Most downloading sites will not allow you to get the same song twice for free.

Downloading music has become more and more popular, causing many smaller record stores to close up shop. Even Virgin Records has taken the preemptive move of beginning to close all their stores in lieu of the impending meltdown of the music business. If you’re a hard core supporter of the movement to keep records in stores, keep buying! But if you’re fine with getting your CD with your morning cup of coffee (at Starbucks) or getting it with your morning cup of coffee at home (on a download) then power up! The day of the record store is fast drawing to a close!