Chapter 10: The Music Business
Preview Questions
Introduction
In this chapter we will see how the music industry is a network of businesses designed to make money from recordings and performances of songs. With the consolidation of record labels and ownership of radio stations the business became more conservative and listeners were presented with less variety. Beginning in the 21st century the internet created new opportunities for musicians to reach their fans directly through platforms like YouTube and social media. While this made it possible for independent artists to reach pockets of fans around the world, most stars are still pushed forward by major labels.
Review Questions
- What are the names of the main artists we’ve focused on in previous chapters? What was something important that happened in their careers that helped them become famous?
- What jobs are there in the music business besides being a songwriter and entertainer? What is the main service that each one provides?
- What do you think goes into making an artist successful? What percent of it would you say is due to talent? What percent to being hard-working and persistent? What percent to making the right contacts?
Introduction
In this chapter we will see how the music industry is a network of businesses designed to make money from recordings and performances of songs. With the consolidation of record labels and ownership of radio stations the business became more conservative and listeners were presented with less variety. Beginning in the 21st century the internet created new opportunities for musicians to reach their fans directly through platforms like YouTube and social media. While this made it possible for independent artists to reach pockets of fans around the world, most stars are still pushed forward by major labels.
Review Questions
- What are the main components of the music business? What things have to happen get music from an artist to their fan, and who takes care of what?
- Who are the most famous musicians we have focused on in the book? Who are some people who helped develop their careers? What services did they provide that the artists didn’t have the skills, connections, or time to do for themselves? Hint: as a starting point, check the highlighted names in the last mind map.
- What other examples of support personnel do you find looking back through Chapters 2 – 8 that weren’t mentioned in Chapter 10? Who did what to help whose career?