Understanding the music industries.

Understanding the Music Industries is designed for undergraduates and musicians seeking to learn about the changing economic, social, technological and business landscapes of the music industries. It draws on historical perspectives and contemporary practice to help readers make sense of the rapid pace of change which is characteristic of the field. The term ‘music industries’ encompasses a wide variety of roles, responsibilities and opportunities which this book discusses through chapters devoted to songwriting/publishing, the recorded music industry, music production, music distribution, music promotion, and music consumption. It also demystifies management, publishing and recording contracts, and the field of copyright and intellectual property. Each chapter presents overviews of the relevant area together with explorations of key issues and consideration of the impact of the Internet. Crucial to the book is a focus on research and analysis of the music industries so that readers can understand and track the ongoing development of the music industries and place themselves in the front line of innovation and entrepreneurship in the future