How to Make It in the New Music Business

How to Make It in the New Music Business serves as a comprehensive guide for musicians navigating the modern music industry landscape. Author Ari Herstand draws from his experience as an independent musician and music business educator to outline strategies for success. The book covers essential topics including streaming, social media, touring, merchandising, and music licensing. Herstand presents step-by-step instructions for building a sustainable career, with detailed information about revenue streams and business practices. The content addresses both artistic and commercial aspects of a music career, from recording and releasing music to marketing and fan engagement. Practical case studies and examples from working musicians illustrate the concepts throughout the text. This guide reflects the transformation of the music industry from traditional label-centered models to independent artist empowerment. The underlying message emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship and adaptability in today's music business environment.

Readers value the book's detailed, practical advice for independent musicians navigating today's music industry. The step-by-step instructions for streaming, social media, and revenue generation received frequent mentions in reviews. What readers liked: - Current, relevant information updated for 2020 - Specific action items and checklists - Real examples from working musicians - Comprehensive coverage of digital marketing - Clear explanations of music licensing and royalties What readers disliked: - Some found the tone too casual - Certain sections feel padded with unnecessary detail - A few readers noted the advice works better for solo artists than bands - Some strategies require significant time investment Ratings across platforms: Amazon: 4.8/5 (1,200+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.4/5 (1,100+ ratings) Notable reader quote: "This book gave me an actual roadmap to follow, not just theory and motivation." - Amazon reviewer "The most useful music industry book I've read in 15 years of performing." - Goodreads review

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Music Money and Success by Jeffrey Brabec, Todd Brabec This resource explains music licensing, publishing rights, and revenue streams across film, television, streaming, and advertising.

Six-Figure Musician by David Hooper The text outlines systems for generating income through merchandise, sync licensing, and direct-to-fan marketing without label support.

Music Marketing for the DIY Musician by Bobby Borg The book details step-by-step marketing plans and promotional strategies used by independent artists who have built sustainable careers.

🎵 Author Ari Herstand has personally performed over 700 shows and his music has been featured in TV shows like "One Tree Hill" and "Private Practice" 🎸 The book's second edition (2019) is nearly twice as long as the first edition (2016), reflecting the rapid changes in music streaming and digital marketing 🎼 Despite focusing on the modern music industry, Herstand emphasizes that live performances still generate about 75% of most musicians' income 🎧 The book includes strategies Herstand used to get his own music placed in major TV shows without having a record label or professional representation 🎹 Herstand developed many of the book's insights while running a popular music industry blog called "Ari's Take," which he started in 2012 and continues to update with current industry trends