The best 25 Music Business books

Appetite for Self-Destruction by Steve Knopper delves into the rise and fall of the music industry in the digital age. It explores how the industry failed to adapt to changing consumer behavior and technology, leading to its own demise. Through in-depth research and interviews, Knopper uncovers the mistakes and missed opportunities that ultimately led to the downfall of major record labels.

Artist Management for the Music Business by Paul Allen offers a comprehensive guide to the ins and outs of artist management in the music industry. Covering topics such as contracts, marketing, touring, and more, this book provides valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to succeed in artist management.

Behind the Glass by Howard Massey takes readers behind the scenes of music production, offering insights and anecdotes from some of the industry's most renowned producers. Through interviews and firsthand accounts, the book provides a fascinating look at the creative process and the magic that happens behind the glass in recording studios.

Building a Career in Opera from School to Stage: Operapreneurship by James Harrington offers practical advice and guidance for aspiring opera singers. From audition preparation to networking strategies, this book equips readers with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the competitive world of opera and build a successful career. Drawing on his own experiences and insights from industry professionals, Harrington provides valuable tips and resources for anyone pursuing a career in this challenging yet rewarding field.

Business Basics for Musicians by Bobby Borg is a comprehensive guide that provides practical advice and essential knowledge for musicians looking to build a successful career in the music industry. From understanding copyright laws to creating a business plan, this book covers all the fundamentals needed to navigate the business side of music.

Confessions of a Record Producer by Moses Avalon delves into the dark side of the music industry, exposing the exploitation and manipulation of artists by record labels and industry professionals. Through real-life examples and insider knowledge, the book reveals the harsh realities of the business and offers advice on how artists can protect themselves and their work.

Fail Until You Don't by Bobby Bones is a motivational book that encourages readers to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Bones shares his own journey of setbacks and triumphs, inspiring others to persevere and keep pushing forward despite the inevitable obstacles along the way.

Guerrilla Music Marketing Online by Bob Baker is a comprehensive guide for musicians looking to promote their music on the internet. Packed with practical tips and strategies, this book covers everything from creating a strong online presence to leveraging social media and digital platforms to reach a wider audience. Whether you're an aspiring artist or an established musician, this book offers valuable insights to help you navigate the digital landscape and effectively market your music online.

Habits of a Successful Band Director by Scott Rush offers practical advice and proven strategies for aspiring and experienced band directors. From effective rehearsal techniques to building a positive classroom culture, this book provides valuable insights into the habits and practices that contribute to a successful music program. It is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their skills as a band director.

How to Build a Sustainable Music Career and Collect All Revenue Streams by Emily White provides invaluable insights and practical advice for aspiring musicians. From understanding the various revenue streams in the music industry to building a strong fan base and effectively managing your finances, this book equips you with the knowledge and tools to create a successful and sustainable music career.

Levon by Sandra B. Tooze delves into the extraordinary life of Levon Helm, the iconic musician and founding member of The Band. From his humble beginnings in Arkansas to his rise to fame in the 1960s and beyond, this book offers a captivating exploration of Helm's musical journey and the profound impact he had on the world of rock and roll.

Me, the Mob, and the Music is a captivating memoir by Tommy James, the pop-rock star behind hits like "Mony Mony" and "Crimson and Clover." In this book, James takes us on a journey through his rise to stardom and the dark underbelly of the music industry. Filled with tales of mob connections, creative struggles, and ultimately redemption, it's a must-read for music lovers and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of the entertainment world.

Music Marketing for the DIY Musician is a comprehensive guide for independent musicians looking to promote their music and build a successful career. Written by Bobby Borg, a musician and educator, this book covers a wide range of topics including social media marketing, branding, networking, and creating a strong online presence. It provides practical advice and actionable strategies that can help musicians navigate the complex world of music marketing.

Music Law in the Digital Age by Allen Bargfrede provides a comprehensive overview of the legal framework that governs the music industry in the digital era. From copyright and licensing to distribution and royalties, this book examines the key issues and challenges faced by musicians, record labels, and digital music platforms. It offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone involved in the creation and distribution of music in today's digital landscape.

Real Artists Don't Starve by Jeff Goins debunks the myth of the starving artist and offers practical advice on how to thrive as a creative professional. Drawing on examples from history and interviews with successful artists, the book explores the mindset and strategies that can help artists make a living from their craft.

Rockonomics by Alan B. Krueger explores the economics of the music industry, delving into the financial challenges faced by musicians, record labels, and concert promoters in the digital age. Krueger combines his expertise in economics with real-life examples from the music world to uncover the complex web of factors that influence the success and profitability of artists and the industry as a whole.

Songwriter's Market by Cris Freese is a comprehensive guide for aspiring songwriters looking to break into the music industry. It provides valuable information on how to market and sell your songs, find opportunities for placement, and build a successful career. With expert advice and useful resources, this book is a must-have for anyone serious about pursuing a career in songwriting.

Start and Run Your Own Record Label by Daylle Deanna Schwartz is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to break into the music industry as an independent label owner. From setting up your business to marketing and promoting your artists, this book covers everything you need to know to succeed in the competitive world of music.

The Buzzard: Inside the Glory Days of WMMS and Cleveland Rock Radio by John Gorman takes readers on a nostalgic journey through the rise of a legendary radio station. Filled with behind-the-scenes stories and interviews with rock icons, this book offers a fascinating look at how WMMS became a driving force in shaping the music industry and the cultural landscape of Cleveland.

The Indie Band Survival Guide by Randy Chertkow is a comprehensive resource for independent musicians. It offers practical advice on everything from creating a successful band to navigating the music industry without the support of a major label. With tips on marketing, networking, and building a fan base, this book is a must-read for any aspiring indie artist.

The Music Business (Explained in Plain English) by David Naggar provides a comprehensive overview of the music industry, breaking down complex concepts and terms into easily understandable language. From copyright laws to record deals, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to navigate the world of music business.

The New Music Therapist's Handbook by Suzanne B. Hanser provides a comprehensive guide to the evolving field of music therapy. It covers the latest research, techniques, and approaches used by music therapists to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Whether you are a student or a practicing music therapist, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice to enhance your practice.

The Song Machine by John Seabrook takes readers behind the scenes of the music industry to uncover the secrets of pop song production. From Max Martin to Dr. Luke, the book explores the rise of the “hit factory” and how catchy tunes are carefully crafted to top the charts. It’s a fascinating look at the intersection of creativity, technology, and commerce in the world of pop music.

This Business of Concert Promotion and Touring by Ray D. Waddell provides a comprehensive guide to the music industry's live event sector. From understanding the roles of promoters and booking agents to the logistics of tour planning and marketing strategies, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone interested in concert promotion and touring.

Social Media Promotion for Musicians by Bobby Owsinski is a comprehensive guide that provides practical tips and strategies for musicians looking to effectively promote their music on social media platforms. From creating engaging content to building a strong online presence, this book offers valuable insights to help musicians connect with their audience and grow their fan base.