About a month ago I attended the Q Conference in Chicago.  Much talk was around the idea that we are moving from an industrial economy to a creative economy.

Corporations are valuing creative ideas, new strategies that are outside the box.

While in Nashville this past week, I was in discussions about how the music industry has suffered incredibly through the decrease of hard copy sales and deep losses in concert ticket sales. No longer do we see a ton of thriving cd stores.  It is easy and convenient to digitally download. Likewise concert sales have taken a deep hit because people can check the internet and watch someone's live video of the concert for free in the comfort of their home. (Read more about Imogen Heap’s recent experience here).

And this isn't only affecting the musical artists. Hard copy book sales are dropping as well with the new technology we have to read via digital devices.

So what does it mean that musicians and other artist types alike are suffering in sales of their craft, and yet we are in the midst of a rising creative class?

Do you think artists will find new creative ways to make a living with their art? And could it be that creatives will find work in corporate America using their unique skills?

I'd love to hear your thoughts...