Whether you’re an aspiring musician, a budding producer, or simply a music enthusiast, understanding the music business is crucial for success. While honing technical skills like songwriting and production is essential, developing soft skills—such as communication, networking, and self-promotion—is just as important, especially for DIY musicians and independent artists. Reading books about music not only provides valuable insights into the business side of the industry but also helps artists cultivate the confidence, problem-solving abilities, and strategic thinking needed to thrive on their own terms. Here are six essential books that cover a wide range of topics—from booking and management to marketing and production—empowering artists with both the knowledge and the soft skills to succeed independently.
1. Anyone Can Book a Gig by Katherine McVicker (2024)
In Anyone Can Book a Gig, Katherine McVicker provides a practical guide for musicians and performers aiming to navigate the gig economy effectively. This book is designed to empower artists by equipping them with actionable strategies for securing gigs, managing bookings, and promoting their unique brand. McVicker emphasizes the importance of building relationships within the industry and offers real-world examples that illustrate how artists can successfully connect with venues and audiences. By breaking down the often-overwhelming process of booking gigs, this book serves as a valuable resource for musicians at any stage of their career.
Key Takeaways:
- Gig Booking: Provides actionable strategies for musicians and performers to secure gigs and manage bookings effectively.
- Negotiating Deals: Provides valuable guidance on how to negotiate fair deals with venues, promoters, and other stakeholders in the music business.
- Understanding Contracts and Riders: Helps artists understand the essential components of performance contracts and riders, ensuring they know what to expect and how to protect their interests.
- Networking: Teaches the importance of building relationships within the industry to enhance your opportunities.
About the Author:
Katherine McVicker is a highly regarded booking agent and the founder of Music Works International (MWI), a boutique agency she established in 2014. With over three decades of experience in the music industry, Katherine has played a pivotal role in launching and developing the international careers of numerous renowned jazz and world artists. Notably, she was instrumental in launching Norah Jones’ European touring career in 2002, spending seven years elevating her profile globally. Today, MWI books over 500 performances each year worldwide and represents more than 30 top artists in jazz, Americana, and world music. Through this course, Katherine and MWI share their extensive expertise, cultivated over years of experience, with musicians everywhere.
2. All You Need to Know About the Music Business by Donald S. Passman (2021)
All You Need to Know About the Music Business is considered the definitive guide for anyone navigating the music industry. Donald S. Passman, a respected entertainment attorney, covers everything from contracts and royalties to touring and merchandising. The book is meticulously organized and written in a clear, engaging style, making complex legal concepts accessible for those who may not have a background in law. Passman’s extensive experience in the industry allows him to provide invaluable insights into the intricacies of the music business, ensuring that artists can make informed decisions about their careers.
Key Takeaways:
- Legal Insights: Offers a comprehensive overview of music contracts, copyrights, and royalties.
- Career Navigation: Guides musicians through the various stages of their careers, including recording, touring, and merchandising.
- Industry Knowledge: Helps artists understand the broader music landscape, including the roles of labels, managers, and promoters.
About the Author:
Donald S. Passman is a renowned entertainment attorney with decades of experience representing artists in the music industry. His expertise covers a wide range of topics, including copyright law and contract negotiation. Passman’s authoritative voice makes this book a go-to resource for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of the music business.
3. Artist Management for the Music Business: Manage Your Career in Music by Paul Allen (2019)
Artist Management for the Music Business serves as a comprehensive guide for those aspiring to manage their own music careers or the careers of others. Paul Allen provides in-depth insights into the roles and responsibilities of an artist manager, covering essential topics such as contract negotiations, marketing strategies, and the importance of building a strong team. The book emphasizes the evolving nature of artist management in today’s digital age, equipping readers with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of managing artists successfully. This book is indispensable for anyone serious about pursuing a career in artist management or looking to better understand the role of management in the music business.
What It’s Used For:
- Management Roles: Explores the roles and responsibilities of an artist manager in the music business.
- Contract Negotiations: Offers guidance on negotiating contracts and understanding legal agreements.
- Marketing Strategies: Provides insights into effective marketing strategies for artists in the digital age.
About the Author:
Paul Allen is a music industry professional with extensive experience in artist management. He has worked with a diverse array of artists, helping them navigate their careers and achieve their goals. Allen’s practical advice and in-depth knowledge make this book an essential resource for anyone interested in artist management.
4. How to Make It in the New Music Business by Ari Herstand (2022)
Ari Herstand’s How to Make It in the New Music Business is an indispensable guide for independent musicians navigating the complexities of the modern music industry. With the rapid shift towards streaming, social media, and DIY distribution, Herstand provides a practical, hands-on approach to building a sustainable music career in today’s digital age. The book covers everything from releasing your music, managing your career, booking tours, and utilizing social media, to breaking down the different revenue streams available to modern artists. It also includes case studies, real-life stories, and interviews with industry insiders, offering both inspiration and a blueprint for success. Whether you’re just starting out or an established artist looking to grow your career, this book is packed with actionable advice and essential insights into how to thrive as an independent artist.
Key Takeaways:
- Career Strategy: Outlines actionable steps for creating and managing a successful independent music career.
- Revenue Streams: Breaks down multiple revenue streams, such as streaming, licensing, and merchandising.
- DIY Marketing: Guides artists on how to utilize social media and digital marketing to grow their fanbase and connect directly with their audience.
About the Author:
Ari Herstand is a musician, entrepreneur, and the founder of the music business advice blog, Ari’s Take. With years of experience as an independent artist, Herstand has successfully built his own career without the support of a major label. He has toured extensively and released multiple albums while also advocating for artists’ rights and education. As an influential voice in the industry, he draws from his personal experiences and industry expertise to empower other artists through his writing, speaking engagements, and consulting.
5. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin (2023)
Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act: A Way of Being offers a profound exploration of creativity that transcends the typical technical focus found in many music industry books. Known for his ability to create an environment where artists from diverse genres can discover their authentic selves, Rubin emphasizes the importance of fostering a relationship with the world around us. This book distills the wisdom he has gathered over decades of working with some of the most iconic musicians, helping readers transcend self-imposed limitations and reconnect with their innate creativity.
Rather than providing a step-by-step guide, Rubin invites readers—especially artists and musicians—to embrace their creative potential as a fundamental aspect of their existence. He encourages us to see the creative process not just as a means of producing art, but as a transformative way of being that can illuminate our lives. The Creative Act serves as an inspirational source, illuminating the artist’s path as one that everyone can follow, ultimately empowering individuals to cultivate moments of exhilaration and transcendence in their creative journeys.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Creativity: Explores the philosophical underpinnings of creativity and its relevance in everyday life.
- Encouraging Self-Discovery: Inspires artists to uncover their unique voices and perspectives, fostering a deeper connection to their work.
- Promoting Personal Growth: Highlights creativity as a shared responsibility, encouraging everyone to expand their own creative spaces.
About Rick Rubin:
Rick Rubin is a legendary music producer and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, known for working with artists across a wide range of genres, from hip hop to rock, and beyond. He has shaped the careers of some of the most iconic musicians of the last several decades, including the Beastie Boys, Johnny Cash, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. In The Creative Act, Rubin shifts from technical expertise to offering a more philosophical exploration of creativity, making the book a unique and inspiring read for artists across all disciplines.
These books about music provide essential insights into various aspects of the music industry. Whether you’re looking to manage your career, promote your music, or produce high-quality tracks, these resources will equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed. Dive into these texts, and you’ll find yourself better prepared to navigate the exciting world of music.
Ready to take your music career to the next level? Explore these must-read books about music today and empower yourself with the knowledge to thrive in the industry. Additionally, don’t forget to check out Anyone Can Book a Gig by Katherine McVicker for the tools and resources you need to book your next performance or gig effortlessly! Visit the textbook page here.
