The Musician's Handbook: A Practical Guide to Understanding the Music Business

by Bobby Borg

FINALLY, a book written BY A MUSICIAN FOR MUSICIANS--from an author who has actually been in the trenches himself—from rehearsal studios to label signings, from recording studios to concert stages. Get the STRAIGHT FACTS about the music industry--NOT THE FAIRY TALES. In The Musician’s Handbook, veteran musician Bobby Borg reveals over 35 inspirational and proactive strategies for pursuing a successful career in the music industry. Other chapters of this indispensable primer provide comprehensive coverage of the four types of business relationships, the five key people a musician needs to succeed and the four major sources of music revenue. Rare and candid interviews with top industry professionals such as Fred Croshal (GM of Maverick Records), Neil Gillis (VP of A&R and Advertising at Warner/Chappell Music), Chris Arnstein (personal manager, international tour manager and booking agent) and Henry Rollins (punk-rock legend of Black Flag and Rollins Band) make the Musician’s Handbook one of THE MOST HONEST AND RESOURCEFUL BOOKS EVER WRITTEN ABOUT THE MUSIC BUSINESS TO DATE! If you're even thinking about pursuing a career in music, or wondering why it hasn't turned out as expected, The Musician's Handbook is a Necessity! *Loaded with invaluable information and contacts that can mean the difference between succeeding and failing in the music industry *Essential reading for musicians, songwriters, publicists, managers, and anyone else interested in making a successful career in the music business *Filled with entertaining anecdotes and side bars allowing you to flip through its pages and read interesting stories and facts *A Concise, easy-to-read introduction to the business of music that arms musicians with What they WANT and NEED about the music business so that they can get back to doing what they like best--CREATING MUSIC!

Genres: Music

256 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2003

Reviews

[Alexandria · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was very similar to other music books out there, but my favorite part was the small gems throughout the book, such as other books and videos to watch about the music industry that he mentions. I took more from the videos and books mentioned in the book than the actual book, but I wouldn't have known about them unless it was for him so thank you.

[Tom Schulte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Besides time with Warrant and Beggars & Thieves as well as his own band Left for Dead, Borg has a long history writing music magazine columns and method books. In this book, Borg unites his experience in working bands with his journalistic experience for an informative and detailed text on the mechanics of the music business. Along with bandmates, a musician needs a more extensive team to navigate the practical matters of a career in music. Borg details the roles of the attorney, personal manager, business manager, talent agent and record producer in this team. Borg also goes far to explain the perennially mystifying topic of royalties, advances and music publishing in the complex revenue stream generated by songs and recordings. Borg also explores different employment scenarios, like contract versus self-employment as well the approach of being a solo artist/employer. These helpful chapters are unusual in books of this type. Sections of the book are enhanced with Q&A interviews with such people as Henry Rollins, Fred Croshal (GM at Maverick Records) and Neil Gillis (VP of A&R at Warner/Chappel Music).

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Admittedly, a quick read because I skimmed more than half of it. Most of it just doesn't apply to me at this point in time. It is really informative for anyone wanting a career in the music business, but at least half of the book applies to those who are farther down the line. I will definitely revisit this book if I find myself down that line.

[Will · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great info for a novice to the music industry, and a handy reference for an expert.