The Truth about the Music Business: A Grassroots Business and Legal Guide

Anyone serious about a career in the music business MUST read this book. Even though it is 596 pages, I read it cover to cover in less than a week! This has got to be the most comprehensive guide to the music business ever written. Everything from entertainment law, to launching your career, to pitching your songs, to digital rights and everything in between is covered. There are even chapters on wills, trusts, and estates. An excellent read!

If you are an aspiring musician and have been offered a contract with a label, consider reading this book first. Moore offers in plain language a sober analysis of how the music business works. He discusses issues that many amateur musicians might be unaware of. Plus, a contract offered to a new, hitherto unsigned band is often badly skewed in favour of the label. The band has very little leverage and it's not a level playing field. Moore also discusses the typical cut from the royalties. Taken by the label for the cost of promotions. Like mailing free CDs of the band's music to radio stations and reviewers. Unwary musicians often don't realise how much of their already minimal royalties can get eaten up this way.