What is the Music Business?

1. What is the Music Business?
The music business involves all the work behind creating, distributing, and monetizing music.

It’s not just about making great songs—it’s also about managing legal rights, royalties, marketing, and more!

2. The Role of Artists & Songwriters

– Artists:   Perform and record the music.
– Songwriters:  Write the lyrics and/or melody.
Sometimes, artists are also songwriters, but even if you’re just one, understanding how each role fits into the business is key.

3. Royalties – How You Get Paid
There are different types of royalties:
– Mechanical Royalties:  Earned when your song is streamed, downloaded, or sold (e.g., from Spotify, Apple Music).
– Performance Royalties: Collected when your song is played publicly (radio, TV, venues, etc.).
– Sync Licensing: When your song is used in film, TV, or ads.
Knowing how each works ensures you get paid properly!

4. Music Publishing – Protecting Your Songs
Music publishing ensures you, the songwriter, get paid when your songs are used.

Publishing companies (or admin services) manage your rights, collect royalties, and make sure you get your share from various platforms.

5. Record Labels vs. Distributors
– Record Labels: Invest in the recording, marketing, and promotion of your music.

In exchange, they take a percentage of revenue.
– Distributors: Help your music reach platforms like Spotify, YouTube, etc.

They distribute your music globally, taking a small percentage from your sales or streams.

6.  Management & Legal Team
A good manager handles your business affairs—booking shows, handling contracts, and planning your career.
A  lawyer ensures your contracts are fair and your rights are protected.

7. Building Your Brand
Success in the music industry requires more than just good songs.

You need to build a brand, grow your fanbase, and create content that connects with your audience. Social media, live shows, and consistent releases are key!

8. Sync Licensing – A Huge Opportunity
Sync licensing involves placing your music in movies, ads, and video games.

It’s one of the most lucrative income sources for artists and songwriters because it can lead to massive exposure and upfront payments.

9. Key Contracts to Know
– Recording Contract: Deals with your relationship with a label, outlining your rights and royalties.
– Publishing Contract: Protects your songwriting and ensures you’re paid for your work.
– Sync Contract: Allows others (filmmakers, advertisers) to use your music for a fee.

10. DIY or Signed?
In today’s world, artists and songwriters can go independent.

With platforms like DistroKid, TuneCore, and social media, you can promote yourself.

But if you want more financial backing and support, record labels and publishers can help push your career further.

11. Staying Educated
The music industry is constantly changing.

Keep learning about royalties, contracts, and new platforms so you don’t miss out on opportunities.

Your knowledge is your power!

12. The Goal: Ownership & Longevity
Owning your master recordings, and publishing rights, and understanding how the business works ensures long-term success.

Aim for deals where you retain as much control over your music as possible!

Understanding these basics will help artists and songwriters navigate the business side of music and build sustainable careers.