The Musician's Handbook by Bobby Borg
For the musician or band on the verge of a professional career in music:
"If you want music to be your livelihood, you must treat it as a
business or the business will take advantage of you." - The
Musician’s Handbook
Summary
The Musician's Handbook presents a
lucid analysis of the music business based on first-hand experiences from an author/artist who
has been on the front lines.
Musicians will learn both the "Ins" and "Outs" of the music business that lies behind the glamorous fantasy world often portrayed in the media. The Musician's Handbook examines the realities of the music business not the fairy tale.
Section One: Understanding Business Relationships
Understanding Business Relationships covers the three primary types of
business relationships that musicians may find themselves in: as an
employee, a band member, or an employee with profit shares. Not only is
it important for musicians to understand the differences between these
three relationships, it is equally important for them to understand the
various business issues associated with each one. From union minimum
scale wages to record advances to protective measures, "The Musician's
Handbook" allows an artist to digest information slowly, providing them
with the basic facts that are specifically related to their career
status. They can get just what they need, when they need it in
easy-to-understand language. No other music resource is organized in
this simple and convenient style.
"The Musician's Handbook is the layman's guide to the music industry. The information is conveyed in just the right amounts so that musicians will not lose interest."
Section Two: A Summary of Business Issues
A Summary of Business Issues povides an analysis of copyrights, publishing, royalties, and touring. Discussions include why or why not you should give-up your publishing, how record royalties are computed, the dangers of recoupable expenses and the misconceptions of touring. A variety of visual aids as well as anecdotal material from top musicians and industry professionals are used for clarity. The Musician's Handbook simplifies complex topics so musicians can make their way safely through this legal minefield. Quoting Steven Depace, a student of music business at UCLA Extension, "I've read several books about the music business
and was still confused until reading [your] book. The information is clear and interesting to
read."
Section Three: The Future
The Futurepresents an insightful look at how technology and the World Wide Web may
change the music business. From URL ownership, to new business models and royalty calculations
for digital downloads, this critical, emerging area of the music business could have a dramatic
impact on a musician's career and their earning power.
Section Four: In Closing
In Closing offers helpful tips that every musician should consider; from making
connections to preparing for the long haul to the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse.
Additionally, The Musician's Handbook offers a unique combined Glossary/Index that
thoroughly defines all of the terms used in the book and more. Appendixes supply readers with
invaluable resources such as actual union scale wages for recording and performing, a section
on 'taxes made easy', important contacts, and a detailed resource that lists the best books and
coolest websites available.
"There are other great books on the market but Bobby's book comes from a truly unique angle. He provides a solid foundation for understanding the business at large yet it comes at you from an everyman's perspective. If you want to know more about the basics from someone who's lived through it, this is a great read."
Neil Gillis, Vice President - Creative Services and Advertising, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
"There are many books out there dealing with the music business, but [your] book has a special and important perspective-that of the working musician.
Mark Goldstein, Senior Vice President of Business Affairs at Warner Bros. Records.
"Bobby's 'what-to-watch-out-for' presentation, uncovers for the artist the traps and hazards of pursuing music as a profession as well as an art form."
Attorney Michael Mallow, partner in the business, employment and class action practice of Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP's Los Angeles office.
Trust is good, but control is better. Good information is key to taking
control of your career, and that's what The Musician's Handbook
features. Borg's book is a must-read for any recording artist serious
about advancing his music career, improving his chances for success, and
doing so on his own terms.
Tess Taylor, President
National Association of Record Industry Professionals
Buy "The Musician's Handbook" at Amazon.com
