intermediate · Course
The Business Side
A comprehensive deep dive into the business of music. From record label operations to publishing administration, this path gives you a thorough education in how the industry really works behind the scenes. Essential knowledge for anyone serious about music as a profession. A comprehensive deep dive into the business of music. From record label operations to publishing administration, this path gives you a thorough education in how the industry really works behind the scenes. Essential knowledge for anyone serious about music as a profession.
12 route stopsHow Record Labels Work
Understand the structure, roles, and economics of record labels.
Open in the reading room →Music Publishing Deep Dive
Go beyond the basics into sub-publishing, admin deals, and catalog value.
Open in the reading room →Publishing Knowledge Check
Test your understanding of music publishing concepts and structures.
Publishing Knowledge Check
Who owns the composition copyright in a song?
Distribution Deals Compared
Compare distribution models from DIY to label services to full deals.
Open in the reading room →Masters and Ownership
Why owning your masters matters and strategies to retain or reclaim them.
Open in the reading room →Ownership Scenarios Quiz
Work through real-world scenarios involving master ownership and splits.
Ownership Scenarios Quiz
An artist records a song entirely in their own home studio. Who owns the master recording?
The Role of Music Managers
What managers do, how they're paid, and what to look for in a good one.
Open in the reading room →Booking Agents and Touring
How booking works, tour economics, and building a live performance career.
Open in the reading room →Analyze a Touring Budget
Break down the costs and revenue of a realistic tour scenario.
Music Licensing and Sync
Advanced strategies for landing sync placements and licensing deals.
Open in the reading room →The Future of the Music Industry
Emerging trends, technology, and what the next decade looks like for artists.
Open in the reading room →Music Business Final Assessment
Comprehensive quiz covering all aspects of the music business.
Music Business Final Assessment
Which of the following is the correct order of money flow from a Spotify stream to an indie artist?