5 Books Every Indie Artist Should Read

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As an independent artist or band you know how much work goes into making your music career work. You have to deal with every piece of the business, and sometimes it gets overwhelming. Over the years I’ve poured through just about every book on the music industry, from understanding contracts to management and have made a list of 5 books that every indie artist should read. These books will give you insight into how to structure your business and leverage your contacts to make the most out of every oppurtunity.

All You Need to Know About the Music Business

Author: Donald S. Passman

Donald Passman is a veteran music industry lawyer. In the seventh edition of this book, Passman covers the record industry of today. Topics covered include:

  • 360 Music Deals
  • Copyright, publishing deals
  • Streaming content, digital downloads, ringtones
  • Selecting the right advisors (managers, booking agents, attorneys)
  • Concert and touring deals
The Indie Band Survival Guide

Author: Randy Chertkow and Jason Feehan

Chertkow and Feehan are members of Chicago’s Beatnik Turtle, and in this indispensable book, they tell you how they have produced four records, toured and built a fan base without a record label. Topics covered include:

  • Building a Brand
  • Networking
  • Building a Website
  • Getting Booked
  • Getting Publicity
The Savvy Musician

Author: David Cutler

David Cutler is a musician, composer and educator who has written a book that every musician should read, regardless of where they are in their career! Cutler’s book will help you build a career, earn a living, & make a difference. Topics covered include:

  • Building a Recognizable Brand
  • Capitalize on Technology
  • Expand Your Network
  • Raise Money
Our Band Could Be Your Life

Author: Michael Azerrad

Michael Azerrad has written the definitive guide to the indie music movement spanning from 1981 – 1991, which paved the way for the success of bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam in the early 90s. The book covers thirteen bands including:

  • Mission of Burma
  • Big Black
  • Fugazi
  • Sonic Youth
  • Mudhoney
Start and Run Your Own Record Label

Author: Daylle Deanna Schwartz

For any artist interested in recording and releasing their own music, there is no better book to walk you through what you really need to know. Schwartz has interviewed many industry players including Jeff Price (Tunecore), Jed Carlson (ReverbNation) and even blogger Perez Hilton. Topics covered include:

  • Using Digital Distribution Profitably
  • Marketing Overseas
  • Licensing Music
  • Using Online Resources
  • Balancing Online and Offline Promotion


Related posts:

  1. Your Band Doesn’t Have a Website? The Top 5 Reasons You Need One
  2. Using YouTube Effectively to Promote Your Band
  3. YouTube Adds Merch Store for Artists
  4. Sell Your Music on Facebook
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