On November 12, 1998, I received a letter by certified mail from the Dixie Chicks' attorneys, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP. This is my reply. Click Here to see the original letter.

November 18, 1998

John C. Beiter
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP
1233 17^th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37212

Re: Supposed Copyright Infringement

Dear Mr. Beiter:

Thank you for your interest in my web site, "The Unofficial All-Inclusive Dixie Chicks Page." I am honored that the Dixie Chicks' management deemed it worthy of your valuable time.

While I do not agree that the sound samples presented on my "Sounds" page violate the Dixie Chicks' right to control their artwork, I do not have the resources to contest the issue. Therefore, I have complied with your request to remove the sound samples from the out-of-print albums "Little Ol' Cowgirl" and "Thank Heavens For Dale Evans" from my site until such time as I secure appropriate permission to use such samples. All links to the sound files are now disabled, as they point to files that no longer exist. In addition, I have deleted these files from all systems under my control. These actions were completed on November 13, 1998, the day after your letter arrived at my home.

Please be advised that I have derived no revenues from the sound samples, although they have inspired several fans to increase the Dixie Chicks' revenues by purchasing the albums from which the samples originated. I never sold or exchanged the sound files in any way. In fact, my site generates no revenue at all, except for a small commission on sales made by visitors who visit CDnow using the links on my site. This commission has never been large enough to warrant a cash payment, and in any case, it is not relevant to the issue of the copyrighted recordings on my Sounds page.

I regret that the Dixie Chicks' management has chosen to suppress these samples of the group's prior releases. I feel that hiding the history of the group fails to serve the best interests of the Dixie Chicks by alienating their long-time fans and disillusioning new fans who want to know how they got where they are now. But I understand that that is their decision to make, good or bad.

Again, thank you for your time, and good luck to the Dixie Chicks.

Sincerely,
[signature]
Robert Brooks

The All-Inclusive Dixie Chicks Page

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