Why is BRD considered "support"

[Saccharin]

I really just don't like the idea of my TP/MP songs hamstringing my dps. I would rather the class as a whole be balanced around using those songs and numbers adjusted rather then eat a 15% damage penalty while they are active.

Actually this seems like the best route to go because people would be less reluctant to use those songs in random groups because they wont take a penalty while they are up.

Unfortunately due to human nature if a bard could do competitive or more damage and give support who do you think would be taken - all bards.

Support is party buffing so if the bard loses 15% then your party is gaining tons more in damage than the 15%. That's team work to a degree. You do have the option to not use your songs and do competitive damage though.