The Definitive Guide to the Best Books about the Music Industry

The music industry can be both incredibly fascinating and complex, with so many different genres, techniques, and engineering strategies to explore. This complexity is what makes it so ripe for exploration through literature, and there have been countless books written about various aspects of the industry.

Whether you want to learn more about the history of specific genres or marketing strategies for musicians and music producers, there is a wealth of information available.  In this definitive guide, we’ll explore the best books about the music industry that cover everything from engineering techniques to the ins and outs of various music genres. Let’s dive in!

Best Books about the Music Industry

1.      All You Need to Know About the Music Business: Ninth Edition by Donald S. Passman.

This book is a comprehensive guide to the music industry, covering topics such as record deals, publishing, copyrights, touring, merchandising, film music, and more. It is written by a veteran music lawyer who offers authoritative and up-to-date information on the major changes and challenges in the industry.

It’s suitable for anyone who wants to be a performer, writer, or executive in the music business. It is also full of practical examples, exercises, and tips from experts and artists. The book has been praised as “the industry bible” by the Los Angeles Times and has been recommended by many successful musicians and professionals.

2.      The Music Business: Career Opportunities and Self-Defense by Dick Weissman.

This book is an overview of the music industry and its career options for musicians and non-musicians alike. It is written by a musician, educator, and author who shares his insights and experiences from working in various aspects of the music business. It also offers tips and strategies for navigating the challenges and pitfalls of the industry.

The author has covered topics such as record labels, publishing companies, agents, managers, producers, engineers, lawyers, educators, journalists, promoters, retailers, distributors, streaming services, and more. The book has been called “a must-read for anyone interested in pursuing a music career” by Music Connection Magazine and has been used as a textbook in many music courses. This content can be useful to researchers on how to become a ghost producer by probably giving ideas on how to market the tracks you create.

3.      How to Make It in the New Music Business: Practical Tips on Building a Loyal Following and Making a Living as a Musician by Ari Herstand.

This book is a realistic and inspiring guide to the new music business, focusing on how to build a fan base, create a brand, release music, tour, stream, crowdfunding, and more. It is written by a musician and blogger who has experienced the challenges and opportunities of being an independent artist in the digital age.

It is also filled with stories, anecdotes, and advice from other musicians and industry professionals. The book has been hailed as “the single best book on the current music business” by Forbes and has been endorsed by many influential artists and executives.

4.      Get More Fans: The DIY Guide to the New Music Business by Jesse Cannon and Todd Thomas.

This book is a detailed and practical guide to the new music business, focusing on how to market, promote, and distribute music online and offline. It is written by two music industry veterans who have worked with hundreds of artists and labels. It is also based on extensive research and interviews with successful artists in electronic music and other genres as well as other prominent industry experts.

The book delves into a wide range of topics, such as social media, websites, email lists, blogs, podcasts, streaming services, press kits, radio, touring, merchandising, licensing, and beyond. The book has been described as “a must-read for any musician who wants to understand how to succeed in today’s music industry” by Alternative Press and has received positive reviews from many readers and critics.

5.      Music Law: How to Run Your Band’s Business by Richard Stim.

This book is a legal guide for beginners (musicians) and bands who want to run their business affairs. It is written by a lawyer and musician who explains the laws and contracts that affect the music industry in plain English. It also provides sample agreements, forms, checklists, and resources that can help musicians protect their rights and interests.

Readers will get a better understanding of band partnerships, management contracts, recording contracts, publishing deals, live performances, merchandising deals, online distribution, taxes, trademarks, copyrights, and other related topics. The book has been praised as “an invaluable resource for musicians” by Billboard Magazine and has been recommended by many music organizations and publications.

6.      The Future of the Music Business: How to Succeed with the New Digital Technologies by Steve Gordon.

This book is a realistic and inspiring guide to the new music business, focusing on how to use new digital technologies to create, distribute, and promote music. It is written by a lawyer and music business consultant who has worked with major labels, artists, and startups. It also features interviews with industry leaders and case studies of successful projects.

The book covers topics such as digital recording, online distribution, streaming services, social media, crowdfunding, licensing, live streaming, podcasts, blockchain, and more. The book has been hailed as “a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the new music business” by Music Connection Magazine and has been endorsed by many influential artists and executives.

7.      Music Money and Success: The Insider’s Guide to Making Money in the Music Business by Jeffrey Brabec and Todd Brabec.

This book is a comprehensive guide to the music industry, covering topics such as record deals, publishing, copyrights, royalties, film music, video games, streaming services, merchandising, foreign markets, and more. It is written by two music industry veterans who are also entertainment lawyers and educators.

It offers authoritative and up-to-date information on the laws, contracts, and opportunities that affect the music business. It also provides practical examples, exercises, and tips from experts and artists. The book has been praised as “the industry bible” by Billboard Magazine and has been used as a textbook in many music courses.

Final Thoughts

The music industry is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments. The books featured in this guide are all excellent resources for beginners and professionals alike, offering clear explanations of the laws and contracts that affect the music industry as well as practical tips and advice from industry experts. Whether you’re an aspiring musician looking to break into the business or an experienced professional looking to stay ahead of the curve, these books can provide invaluable insight and guidance.