Johnny Cash would probably argue otherwise, given his beliefs and discography.

Here is him singing "The Junkie's Prayer": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkDJt5GutqA

If you're willing to do it no matter what, you're begging to be exploited. That's the entire history of the labor movement in a sentence.

Most humans enjoy music and art. We want it to exist. It makes life better. We shouldn't be looking down on those who want to supply it.

I don’t understand this.

Why are only people who make music or art special in this regard?

If I am someone who enjoys Software Engineering, am I also ripe to be exploited? If not, please explain.

Of course I agree with all your desires. I'm just saying how capitalism works in reality. You can pass moral judgements all you want, but capitalism doesn't care how many people want something. In capitalism, it's all about profit over time.

A “yes, and” pivot: you’re going to be exploited, you should be begging for a union.

I’ve been musing on what an open source (users/creators) union would look like. The best of us write software in this “no matter what” category. How could we collectively support them while they support us and we support each other?

There many, many people trying to be successful in arts and entertainment.

Why would someone overpay for something that may be seen as a commodity because of the overwhelming supply?

Then why do it? You know the answer to this, just like I do.

I’m sure the Wichita Lineman would disagree.