Top 5 Must-Read Music Business Books for Musicians in 2024

Essential Reads to Navigate and Succeed in the Music Industry

Plus a bonus book and one solution that blows them all away!

Navigating the music industry can be a daunting task for any musician.

To help you succeed, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 5 must-read music business books in 2024.

These titles cover everything from the basics of the music business to advanced strategies for artist management, music business management, and building a successful music career.

Whether you’re a novice musician or a seasoned professional, these informative reads will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive in the ever-evolving music industry.

All You Need to Know About the Music Business: Eleventh Edition, by Donald S. Passman

Dubbed “the industry bible” by the Los Angeles Times, Donald S. Passman’s “All You Need to Know About the Music Business” is a comprehensive guide that has been updated to reflect the latest trends and changes in the music industry.

For more than thirty years, this book has been the definitive guide to the music industry. Passman, who has spent his career primarily representing artists, provides invaluable insights into the music business.

This edition also delves into the impact of streaming and AI-generated music as part of the latest trends covered in the book. Passman has received numerous industry recognitions for his contributions to the music business.

This most recent edition covers the impact of streaming, TikTok, AI-generated music, and the mega-million-dollar sales of artists’ songs and record catalogs.

Passman’s expertise as a veteran music lawyer makes this book a good resource for anyone getting started  in the music business.

How to Make It in the New Music Business: Practical Tips on Building a Loyal Following and Making a Living as a Musician, by Ari Herstand

Ari Herstand’s “How to Make It in the New Music Business” is a go-to resource for musicians looking to build a sustainable career. This book offers practical tips on leveraging digital platforms, building a loyal fanbase, and monetizing your music.

Herstand also explores how artist access to streaming media, particularly TikTok, has reshaped the music business. Herstand’s insights are particularly valuable in the post-COVID era.

For the first time, artists can get their music to listeners without a record company gatekeeper, creating a new democracy for music.

This makes the book a top-read for 2024.

Music Money and Success: The Insider's Guide to Making Money in the Music Business, by Jeffrey Brabec and Todd Brabec

Written by two experienced music industry professionals, “Music Money and Success” provides a comprehensive guide to the financial aspects of the music business.

This book covers topics such as royalties, sync licensing, and touring, offering practical advice on how to maximize your income and succeed in the industry.

It’s an important read for anyone looking to understand the business of music - and earn a few dollars from it.

Start Your Music Business: How to Earn Royalties, Own Your Music, Sample Music, Protect Your Name & Structure Your Music Business, by Audrey Chisholm Esq.

Audrey Chisholm’s “Start Your Music Business” is an easy-to-read blueprint for launching a successful career in the music business.

This book covers everything from earning royalties to protecting your name and logo.

It’s a step-by-step manual for every budding music entrepreneur, making it an valuable resource for those looking to start and grow their music business.

The Plain & Simple Guide to Music Publishing, by Randall D. Wixen

For more than 15 years, “The Plain & Simple Guide to Music Publishing” has been labelled the definitive guide to music publishing.

This book provides up-to-date contact information for major and independent record label A&R, Artist Managers, Attorneys, and music publishers.

It also discusses the ever-changing landscape of the music world, including the impact of streaming, digital revolution, and the emergence of music created by artificial intelligence.

This book provides clear and concise information on how to navigate the complex world of music publishing, making it a key read for songwriters, musicians, producers, and other industry professionals looking to grasp this critical aspect of the music business.

Bonus Book: It's All in Your Head, by Russ

As a bonus recommendation, we suggest you check out "It's All in Your Head" by Russ.

This book offers a unique perspective on the mindset and mental resilience required for success in the music industry.

Russ, a successful independent artist, shares his personal journey and insights on overcoming self-doubt, staying motivated, and cultivating a winning mentality.

It's an overall good read.

Why Creative Intell is More Comprehensive and Up-to-Date Than Any Book on the Music Business

While it's true books on the music business offer valuable insights and foundational knowledge, being an online platform, Creative Intell provides a far more comprehensive and up-to-date approach to learning how to succeed in the music industry.

Here are a few key features that set Creative Intell apart:

Interactive Learning and Animated Series

Creative Intell's unique animated series, "The Intells," teaches the real business of music through storytelling.

Each episode breaks down industry topics into fun, easy-to-digest segments that can be watched individually or as part of the course content.

This visual, interactive approach makes learning less work than reading a book and is more engaging for visual learners.

Comprehensive Contract Breakdowns

Creative Intell is the only site that breaks down the contracts of the music business in detail and makes them easy for  non-lawyers to understand.

Their "Industry Agreement" series of courses provide clause-by-clause explanations of various music industry agreements, such as featured artist agreements, work-for-hire agreements, management, recording, and producer agreements.

This in-depth analysis helps musicians understand the fine print of the deals they're considering and avoid making costly legal and/or business mistakes.

Up-to-Date Information and Industry Trends

Creative Intell's courses are constantly updated to reflect the latest trends and changes in the music industry.

Unlike books, which become outdated quickly, Creative Intell ensures that its content remains current and relevant.

This includes updates on new revenue streams, digital platforms, and legal considerations.

Expert-Developed Courses and Community Support

Creative Intell's courses are developed by a team of practicing music industry experts, including top music business attorneys and veteran music professionals.

Creative Intell fosters a community-based approach, allowing members to learn at their own pace while networking with like-minded artists, producers, managers, executives, and lawyers.

Their community of experts and industry pros are always available to answer questions on both course content and any questions members may have about their specific activities in the music business.

Practical Tools and Resources

Creative Intell provides members with practical tools and resources, such as downloadable, high-quality agreement templates that users can customize for their own deals.

These resources are designed to help musicians navigate the complexities of the music business with confidence and be able to protect their best interests.

That's crucially important for anyone who can't find or afford a competent music attorney to help them with their deals.

Conclusion

These top 5 must-read music business books for 2024 will be helpful for any musician trying to navigate and succeed in the music industry.

However, for a more comprehensive, interactive, and up-to-date learning experience, Creative Intell offers unparalleled resources and support.

By combining the best of both worlds—valuable book knowledge and cutting-edge online education—musicians can equip themselves with the tools they need to thrive in the ever-changing world of music.

Disclaimer:

Creative Intell is not affiliated, nor associated in any way, with any third parties referenced herein, nor their respective goods or services. Any and all third-party trade names, trademarks, and/or service marks referenced are used for informational purposes only, and are the exclusive property of their respective trademark owners.