What is the reason behind the slump in music industry sales?

RIAA, Lars from Metallica, et al will tell you its piracy. I think it's because music today stinks and people aren't willing to plunk down $15+ on crappy CDs.

It's still easier to download the 1 song you like from say.. um... Apple's iTunes (for 99 cents per tune) or from sites like Morpheus.

I read an article the other day that the music industry has spent so much time focusing on the teeny-bopper age bracket that they've neglected middle-aged adults. The execs, in their wisdom, think the teenagers parents only listen to oldies stations. The article went on to say this age bracket could be why artists like Clay Aiken and Norah Jones have done so well. They do have some talent, they can sing, and they don't sell sex.

Global Music Sales Slide, Some Recovery Signs-IFPI