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DIY Music Business 101 - Learn about the New Music Industry

4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 249 ratings
see reviews
Tomas George, Christopher Carvalho, and Digital Music Masters

Still scratching your head over things like copyright, royalties, and publishing?

Not sure where all of the money comes from?

We get it, and that’s why we made this course.

This course is for independent music artists and producers looking to pursue a career in the new music business.

After taking this course, you will feel more confident and better informed when navigating the ever-complex business of music.

Until now, you have probably tried to Google many of these industry concepts, but came away even more confused.

Read more

Still scratching your head over things like copyright, royalties, and publishing?

Not sure where all of the money comes from?

We get it, and that’s why we made this course.

This course is for independent music artists and producers looking to pursue a career in the new music business.

After taking this course, you will feel more confident and better informed when navigating the ever-complex business of music.

Until now, you have probably tried to Google many of these industry concepts, but came away even more confused.

Or, you have found many resources, but they don’t explain how things work today.

If this sounds like you, then we are here to help.

Who are your instructors?

Tomas George is a Music Producer and Best Selling Udemy Instructor with over 300,000 students enrolled.

Christopher Carvalho runs Unlock Your Sound out of the UK, helping up-and-coming music artists like you, create and release their music online.

This course covers the essentials of the new and ever-changing music industry:

  • Copyright

  • Royalties

  • Publishing

  • Streaming

  • Facebook and Youtube monetisation

  • Distribution

  • ...and much more.

Anyone who is looking to build a career in music must understand the above. If you don't, then this course is perfect for you.

So go ahead and click the enrol button, and we'll see you in lesson 1.

Cheers,

Christopher and Tomas

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Music business concepts such as copyright and royalties
  • Where all of the royalties come from and how to collect them all!
  • How to get started as an independent music artist
  • How music streaming works

Syllabus

Introduction
Introduction and What you're going to Learn

In this lesson, you will learn how to choose your music distributor.

Before we get Started
Read more

In this lesson, you will learn an overview of copyright and royalties.

In this video, we will talk about the royalties that you are entitled to as the songwriter of your music.

In this video, we're going to talk about Publishing Admin Companies.

In this video, we're going to talk about performing rights organizations.

In this video, you're going to learn a brief overview of copyright.

In this video, we're going to talk about record companies and record deals.

In this video, we're going to talk a little about Spotify and Spotify Pre-Saves.

In this video, you'll learn about preparing for a release.

In this video, we'll continue talking about Spotify.

In this video, we'll talk about money in the music industry.

In this video, we’re going to talk about standing out in the new music industry.

In this video, we're going to talk about the importance of music artists having a website.

In this video, we're going to look at some resources that can help you with your music career.

In this video, we'll show you a few ways that you can build a fan club that will happily pay you for exclusive content.

In this video, we'll show you how to create a Spotify pre-save link using toneden.io

In this video, we're going to show you how to use ToneDen to create fan links for your music.

In this video, we're going to look at how to create a website with Square Space.

In this video, we're going to look at how to create a lyric video in Final Cut Pro X.

In this video, we're going to look at how to find templates for a lyric video and visualizer.

In this video, we're going to look at how to find freelancers online to help you edit a music video template.

In this video, we're going to show you how to set up Amazon affiliate links and give you some suggestions on where to put them.

In this video, we're going to show you how to create a logo with Freelance competitions.

In this video, we're going to show you how to set up and create print on demand t-shirts with Merch by Amazon.

Thank you for watching this course!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores copyright, royalties, and publishing, which are essential for navigating the complexities of the modern music business and understanding revenue streams
Covers music streaming, Facebook and YouTube monetization, and distribution, which are all critical for success in today's digital music landscape
Includes practical guidance on building a brand, creating fan links, and setting up print-on-demand merchandise, which are valuable skills for artist entrepreneurship
Features tutorials using Final Cut Pro X and Square Space, which may require learners to purchase software or have access to a Mac computer
Discusses Spotify pre-saves and Amazon affiliate links, which may require learners to have an existing presence on these platforms to fully utilize the strategies
Teaches how to create a logo with freelance competitions, which may not be suitable for learners who want to develop their own design skills

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Essential music business basics for indies

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation for independent music artists navigating the complexities of the industry. Students particularly appreciate the clear explanations of core concepts like copyright and royalties. Many find it an excellent starting point for understanding how money flows and how to protect their work. While it covers a wide range of topics, some reviewers note that it is a basic introduction and that certain areas could benefit from more in-depth coverage. The instructors are generally well-received, offering practical strategies. Overall, it's seen as a highly valuable resource for beginners in the DIY music business.
Ideal for those with little prior knowledge.
"If you're completely new to the business side, this course is perfect."
"As a beginner, I found the information presented at just the right level."
"May be too basic if you already have some music business knowledge."
Provides tools and strategies to use now.
"I gained practical tools and strategies that I can immediately apply to my music career."
"The course provides actionable steps for independent artists."
"Helpful demos and resources for things like distribution and monetization."
Concepts like royalties are explained simply.
"The explanations for complex topics like royalties were incredibly clear and easy to follow."
"I finally understand where the money comes from after taking this course."
"The instructors broke down difficult concepts into understandable pieces."
Great starting point for music business fundamentals.
"This course gave me a solid introduction to the basics of the music industry."
"It's an excellent starting point for understanding copyright, royalties, and distribution."
"I learned the fundamentals needed to navigate the new music business landscape."
"A clear overview of essential topics for anyone starting out DIY."
Some topics could be explored further.
"While comprehensive, some sections felt a bit rushed and could use more in-depth coverage."
"I would have liked to dive deeper into specific areas like publishing or licensing."
"Good overview, but prepare to do further research on certain topics."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in DIY Music Business 101 - Learn about the New Music Industry with these activities:
Read 'All You Need to Know About the Music Business'
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the music business landscape before starting the course.
View All You Need to Know About the Music Business:... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'All You Need to Know About the Music Business'.
  • Read the sections on copyright, royalties, and publishing.
  • Take notes on key concepts and industry terms.
Review Copyright Law Basics
Solidify your understanding of copyright law to better grasp the course's discussions on music copyright.
Browse courses on Copyright Law
Show steps
  • Find a reputable online resource explaining copyright law.
  • Read about the different types of copyrighted works.
  • Understand the rights granted to copyright holders.
Create a Royalty Tracking Spreadsheet
Apply your knowledge of royalties by creating a system to track potential earnings.
Show steps
  • Research the different types of royalties you can earn.
  • Design a spreadsheet with columns for each royalty type.
  • Input hypothetical data to test the spreadsheet's functionality.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Write a Blog Post on Music Distribution
Reinforce your understanding of music distribution by explaining the process to others.
Show steps
  • Research different music distribution platforms.
  • Outline the key steps in the distribution process.
  • Write a blog post explaining the process in simple terms.
  • Publish the blog post on a platform like Medium or your own website.
Explore 'Music Law: How to Run Your Band's Business'
Gain practical legal insights into running a music business.
View Patent Pending in 24 Hours on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Music Law: How to Run Your Band's Business'.
  • Read the sections relevant to your current music career stage.
  • Identify potential legal issues and strategies to address them.
Create a Presentation on Streaming Monetization
Deepen your understanding of streaming monetization by creating a presentation to share with others.
Show steps
  • Research different streaming platforms and their monetization models.
  • Create a presentation outlining the key concepts and strategies.
  • Include examples of successful streaming monetization strategies.
  • Practice delivering the presentation to a friend or colleague.
Attend a Music Industry Conference
Expand your network and learn from industry professionals.
Show steps
  • Research music industry conferences in your area.
  • Register for a conference that aligns with your interests.
  • Prepare questions to ask speakers and attendees.
  • Network with other attendees and exchange contact information.

Career center

Learners who complete DIY Music Business 101 - Learn about the New Music Industry will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Independent Music Artist
An Independent Music Artist manages all aspects of their music career, from creating and recording music to marketing and distributing it. This course is specifically designed for independent music artists, covering essential topics like copyright, royalties, publishing, and streaming. The course helps artists understand how to monetize their music on platforms like Facebook and YouTube, distribute their music effectively, and build their brand. Through this course, you can also discover how to create a website, lyric video, and visualizer, empowering you to create a strong online presence and engage with fans.
See salaries and explore the career path for Independent Music Artist
Music Licensing Manager
A Music Licensing Manager handles the process of securing licenses for music used in various media, such as film, television, and advertising. They negotiate terms, ensure proper payment of royalties, and protect the copyright of musical works. This course helps you understand copyright, royalties, and publishing, forming a strong foundation for a music licensing manager. The course's focus on the modern music business and navigating the complexities of royalties makes it specifically relevant. This course also helps you learn how to navigate the intricacies of copyright and performing rights organizations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Licensing Manager
Music Publisher
A Music Publisher acquires and manages copyrights for songs, ensuring that songwriters receive royalties and promoting their music for use in various media. This course is directly relevant to a Music Publisher. It teaches publishing to students. It will be useful to learn about copyright, royalties, and streaming. Course takers learn about publishing administration companies and performing rights organizations. This learning objective provides immediate value to those who want to be music publishers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Publisher
Digital Music Distributor
A Digital Music Distributor gets music onto online platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. They handle the technical aspects of distribution, ensuring that artists' music is available to a wide audience. The course can be useful for an aspiring Digital Music Distributor. It teaches students how to choose a music distributor. This lesson alone can be extremely valuable in a competitive marketplace. The course introduces copyright and royalties. Students of the course learn about money in the music industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Music Distributor
Music Marketing Specialist
A Music Marketing Specialist develops and executes marketing campaigns to promote music releases, artists, and events. They use various strategies, including social media, advertising, and public relations. This course covers the essentials of the new and ever-changing music industry and will fit well into the role of a music marketing specialist. The course teaches about Facebook and Youtube monetization. Gaining an understanding of standing out in the new music industry may be useful as well. Learners will understand the importance of video and how to find freelancers online to help edit a music video template.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Marketing Specialist
Artist Manager
An Artist Manager guides and supports an artist's career, handling business affairs, negotiating contracts, and helping with marketing and promotion. This course is helpful for an aspiring Artist Manager. It introduces them to the essentials of the new and ever-changing music industry, including copyright, royalties, publishing, streaming, Facebook and Youtube monetization, and distribution. It may also be useful to learn about building a brand and artist entrepreneurship. The course covers how to create a Spotify pre-save link using toneden.io, as well as how to use ToneDen to create fan links for music.
See salaries and explore the career path for Artist Manager
Music Producer
A Music Producer oversees the recording process of a song or album, working with artists to shape their sound and bring their creative vision to life, requiring knowledge of music business concepts. This course would be useful for a music producer. The course covers copyright, royalties, publishing, streaming, Facebook and Youtube monetization, and distribution. Those considering becoming a music producer also need to understand the importance of video, demos, followers versus fans, a website, and building a brand.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Producer
Social Media Manager Music
A Social Media Manager for music artists or labels manages their online presence, creates engaging content, and interacts with fans. They develop strategies to grow their audience and promote their music. This course can benefit a Social Media Manager in the music industry. The course covers Facebook and YouTube monetization. This informs how a social media manager should approach these platforms. The course will teach students how to build a fan club that will happily pay for exclusive content. This is a valuable lesson for social media managers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Media Manager Music
Music Publicist
A Music Publicist helps artists gain media attention and build their brand. They secure interviews, reviews, and features in publications to increase an artist's visibility. This course helps you understand the modern music business and how to stand out in the industry, which may be beneficial for a music publicist looking to promote their clients effectively. The course content on social media, building a brand, and creating engaging content aligns well with the demands of this role. Knowing how to create Spotify pre-save links and leveraging platforms like ToneDen are strategies that a publicist can also utilize to boost an artist's profile.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Publicist
Record Label Representative
A Record Label Representative works for a record company, scouting new talent, managing artist relations, and overseeing marketing and promotion efforts. This course helps someone become a record label representative, by clarifying information about record deals. The course also talks about standing out in the new music industry. By doing so, the course assists label representatives in identifying artists that can rise above the noise. In this course, you'll learn about using ToneDen to create fan links for music and creating a website with Square Space.
See salaries and explore the career path for Record Label Representative
Music Supervisor
A Music Supervisor selects and licenses music for film, television, and other media. They work closely with directors and producers to find the perfect music to enhance a project. You'll understand copyright and royalties. You'll be introduced to publishing administration companies and performing rights organizations. The coursework introduces music business concepts, which is very useful for those who wish to select music for media. You will learn about money in the music industry, which will inform your financial arrangements.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Supervisor
Music Attorney
A Music Attorney provides legal advice and representation to musicians and other industry professionals, covering contracts, copyright, and other legal matters. Though a Juris Doctor degree and passing the bar are generally required, this course provides a foundational understanding of the music business. The course covers copyright and royalties. The course explains Spotify and Spotify pre-saves. It also explains money in the music industry. This course explains building a brand and artist entrepreneurship.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Attorney
Music Journalist
A Music Journalist writes articles, reviews, and features about music, artists, and industry trends for publications or online platforms. This course may be useful for a music journalist seeking to understand the music industry. It covers streaming. It covers the importance of video, demos, followers versus fans, a website, and building a brand. This course may provide background information that can be used to generate more relevant articles. It teaches learners how to create a logo with Freelance competitions and how to set up and create print on demand t-shirts with Merch by Amazon.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Journalist
Tour Manager
A Tour Manager handles the logistics of a music tour, including transportation, accommodation, and scheduling. They work closely with the artist and crew to ensure that everything runs smoothly. While the course does not directly cover touring, understanding the business side of music is crucial for a Tour Manager. The overview of royalties and copyright may be beneficial. Furthermore, this course would be useful for helping tour managers identify which artists are mostly likely to be profitable.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tour Manager
Music Educator
A Music Educator, such as a teacher or instructor, shares knowledge and skills related to music with students of all ages. This course gives you insight into the music industry. It may be useful to learn how to explain the music industry to students who may not have familiarity with it. It may also be useful to recommend this course to students to help them develop a more business-like mindset. The course talks about how to choose your music distributor. The course may give you insight into the resources that can help your music career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Educator

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in DIY Music Business 101 - Learn about the New Music Industry.
Cover image
All You Need to Know About the Music Business
Save
Comprehensive guide to the music industry, covering everything from copyright and royalties to record deals and publishing agreements. It's a valuable resource for independent artists and producers who want to understand the business side of music. Passman's book is often used as a textbook in music business programs, making it a solid foundation for understanding the concepts discussed in the course.
All You Need to Know About the Music Business:...
Hardcover
$$
All You Need to Know About the Music Business (11th...
Audible Audiobook
$$
All You Need to Know About the Music Business: 10th...
Hardcover
$$
All You Need to Know About the Music Business:...
Hardcover
$$
All You Need to Know About the Music Business:...
Hardcover
$$
All You Need to Know About the Music Business:...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Patent Pending in 24 Hours
Save
Provides practical legal advice for musicians, covering topics such as copyright, trademarks, contracts, and band agreements. It's a useful resource for independent artists who want to protect their music and business interests. It offers a more accessible approach to legal concepts, making it a good supplement for those new to the music business.
Patent Pending in 24 Hours
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
2 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructors
Tomas George
Christopher Carvalho
Digital Music Masters
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores copyright, royalties, and publishing, which are essential for navigating the complexities of the modern music business and understanding revenue streams
Covers music streaming, Facebook and YouTube monetization, and distribution, which are all critical for success in today's digital music landscape
Includes practical guidance on building a brand, creating fan links, and setting up print-on-demand merchandise, which are valuable skills for artist entrepreneurship
Features tutorials using Final Cut Pro X and Square Space, which may require learners to purchase software or have access to a Mac computer
Discusses Spotify pre-saves and Amazon affiliate links, which may require learners to have an existing presence on these platforms to fully utilize the strategies
Teaches how to create a logo with freelance competitions, which may not be suitable for learners who want to develop their own design skills
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