Understanding the Music Industries (Sage Publications 2013)
Chris Anderton, Andrew Dubber & Martin James
This book is designed as an overview and introduction to the music industries, and is aimed at undergraduate students, college students and other readers interested in developments in the business of music. Chris Anderton, Andrew Dubber and Martin James focus strongly on changes within the contemporary music industry environment, and the major concerns of music businesses large and small. These include the influence of digital technologies, developments and innovations in studio recording, distribution, live music, and copyright law, and the music business strategies of both independent and corporate music companies.
Published by Sage (2013), the textbook is already widely in use in universities and colleges around the world. Here’s the blurb:
Everyone knows music is big business, but do you really understand how ideas and inspiration become songs, products, downloads, concerts and careers? This textbook guides students to a full understanding of the processes that drive the music industries. More than just an expose or ‘how to’ guide, this book gives students the tools to make sense of technological change, socio-cultural processes, and the constantly shifting music business environment, putting them in the front line of innovation and entrepreneurship in the future.
Packed with case studies, this book:
– Takes the reader on a journey from Glastonbury and the X-Factor to house concerts and crowd-funded releases;
– Demystifies management, publishing and recording contracts, and the world of copyright, intellectual property and music piracy;
– Explains how digital technologies have changed almost all aspects of music making, performing, promotion and consumption;
– Explores all levels of the music industries, from micro-independent businesses to corporate conglomerates;
– Enables students to meet the challenge of the transforming music industries.
This is the must-have primer for understanding and getting ahead in the music industries. It is essential reading for students of popular music in media studies, sociology and musicology.
Dr Chris Anderton is the course leader of BA Hons Music Promotion and BA Hons Music Management at Southampton Solent University.
Dr Martin James is the course leader of BA Hons Popular Music Journalism at Southampton Solent University.
Find it on Amazon here.