subject: Top 3 Music Business Books That Every Artist, Singer, Musician And Rapper Should Read - Part 1 [print this page] Being a professional means being informedBeing a professional means being informed. That is as true for musicians and singers as it is lawyers and doctors. Reading industry trade publications is one way to keep abreast of trends and news. But to study the music business in depth there is not better resource than books. In the first of a three part series, here are reviews of three books about the music business that are must-reads. Each author explores the music business from their unique perspectives, offering readers an honest view of the industry they strive to be part of.
Donald S Pressmans All You Need to Know about the Music Business: Revised and Updated for the 21st Century is a detailed, frequently humorous look at the business of making music. Now in its eighth edition, the book is considered a bible for anyone wanting to know the ins and outs of the music business. Pressman is a Los Angeles-based music attorney with twenty-five years experience and his clients include everyone from record label executives, singers and songwriters to film companies and publishers. He is widely recognized as one of the most influential people in the entertainment industry.
His book offers many useful tips such as how to hire agents and managers, strategies for marketing ones music and the steps needed to legally protect intellectual property. Pressman also guides readers through complex contractual issues such as recoupment, royalties, advances, and distribution deals. Being an attorney, Pressman stresses the need to protect oneself against copyright infringement, bad record deals, and unscrupulous business managers and agents.
The most recent edition has up to the minute information on how the Internet is impacting the music business and the performers bottom lines. The information is just as important for industry veterans as it is newcomers. Pressman explains how video streaming services work and how royalties are computed for digital distribution services. He also covers podcasting, music downloads, streaming and webcasting.
More than just nuts and bolts of how the business works, Pressman gives readers an insiders guide that shows how to navigate potential pitfalls and how to establish successful relationship with other music industry professionals.
