Took a quick look at the wiki and have to admit that this is hilarious:
Both a zero-cost version and a purchasable “enhanced” version called LimeWire Pro were available; however, LimeWire Pro could be acquired for free through the standard LimeWire software, where users distributed it without authorization.
I’d say it’s more like disguised feudalism. We’re all peasants for the few kings and queens that have all the money at the top.