Myth - The free download is illegal
Myth
When surfing on the Internet, you see a website for free download, your first impression is that this site is unreliable and performing an illegal action.
Reality
Most websites provide legal download, but you should however consider that there are illegal websites.
On Skyrock (music blogs), the download may be activated by the author. If the music is a known (or not) and that the blog author does not have the rights to download, this music is illegal. It is very important to point out this blog Skyrock being sure that it is unlawful; if not the original author (or even SACEM) could loge a complaint with the host blogs.
On other sites or video images and even text, the principle is the same.
On eMule or other P2P, there exists illegal content, but the principle is still the same.
Moreover many authors prefer to put their works free of rights and free compared to others. There are also credulous authors who steal music (free or not) without permission.
Conclusion
You can never be sure whether the broadcaster owns the broadcasting rights, but the download of free content is legal but you should be careful for security purposes.
See also