Backup iTunes Files

I'm trying to backup my iTunes songs. I've read the article about creating a playlist with everything in it (and using multiple DVDs). Why can't I just go to Explorer and copy the directories to a DVD or an external drive?
Someone told me once that I should "deauthorize" my computer before making backups and then just copy the files.
Any comments?

hi John!
Why can't I just go to Explorer and copy the directories to a DVD or an external drive?
you can do that. for more info on setting up a backup that way, see this Buegie post:
http://discussions.apple.com/click.jspa?searchID=-1&messageID=2231034
and for maintaining backups using that sort of technique, try:
http://discussions.apple.com/click.jspa?searchID=-1&messageID=2538235
love, b

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