IF the system worked - by performing someone else's song the performer would be helping the writer get paid, not stealing their work. Performing covers creates potential royalty income for the writer - its not a theft of service.

The big problem IMHO is that there is not one system. If I were a bar owner and ASCAP sent me a licensing bill, then BMI sent me a licensing bill, then SESAC sent me a bill - each of which was based upon some arcane formula which has no relation to what was actually going on in my bar - I'd feel like I was getting fleeced. Whether it were $1.91 a night or not. Regardless of the dollar figure, none of these organizations could tell me if they represent the writers of the songs actually being played, that the money actually goes to the writers or that a fourth or fifth organization isn't going to walk through the door demanding fees as well.

Marty my home

Experience is that marvelous thing that enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again!