essay about music business

The Music Industry Essay

Introduction, current state of the music industry, current income generation strategies for the music industry, licensing of music to intermediate users, challenges the music industry faces, responses to the problems facing the music industry, reference list.

The music industry is dealing with many issues that are affecting how it operates. The industry is among the many that have endured the most of technological and social changes in the last three decades. The forces of globalization have changed for good how people access, use, and distribute music.

In addition, there are very powerful forces in the music supply chain that will influence the music industry at least in the near term. The industry had many commercialization approaches before the emergence of the internet as a force driving globalization. Some of them remain valid ways of running a career in music but some are becoming obsolete.

The relative ease with which new entrants can make music has reduced in a significant way the barriers to entry. It is no longer enough to be a talented musician to succeed in music. It takes business acumen, intelligence and a keen appreciation of subtle changes in consumer tastes and preferences to keep up with the rapid rate of change in this industry.

This paper will explore the driving forces in the music industry. It will also look at the strategies used in the development and marketing of music, the challenges to the industry and some potential strategies that can help to overcome these challenges.

Scope of the Music Industry

The music industry is a very varied establishment. Understandably, music was not an invention in a lab or a unique cultural element in a specific part of the world. Rather, music evolved in different cultures independently leading to very many classes of music. Even within the same cultures, there were songs for each occasion.

There were songs of celebrations such as when a child was born or when there was something important in the community, and there were songs for funerals and general mourning. Some communities had songs to accompany work while almost all cultures had singing games for children. In this sense, the evolution of music is a human phenomenon that grew with the technological development of each culture.

The emergence of the musician as a career person is also a new development in the world. Advanced cultures allowed people to specialize in music but they often had another trade to make it possible for them to earn a living. Otherwise, music was a community endeavour where all the people took part in singing and dancing.

In last century, mass communication and rapid transit systems made it possible for some people to become career musicians, travelling from town to town to play music for varied audiences. As this art grew in commercial meaning, many other people joined the commercial facets of music to support the careers of popular musicians.

The current scope of the music industry is very large. There are still elements of the traditional sense of music where whole communities participate in singing. This is common in churches and in institutions of worship where the entire audience participates in singing as part of their spiritual expression.

There are also songs that families sing such as during birthdays. Lullabies help children go to sleep. Perhaps the most common expression of communal aspects of music is the singing of national anthems, which every country sings during important national functions. Apart from these expressions of music, there is a fully-fledged commercial music industry. This industry packages music as a product and presents it to a paying audience. This paper will concentrate on this type of music.

Stakeholders in the Music Industry

In order for music industry to function, several stakeholders must cooperate to ensure that a song leaves the music writer’s pad and ends up in the earphones or stereo speakers of a music enthusiast. While the list below describes these stakeholders individually, is common for an individual to play more than one role.

Composer: This is the originator of songs, the person writes the actual words of the songs. This role calls for someone well versed in music to understand musical language, and has the gift or skill of writing songs.

Singers/Musicians: A singer or musician is the person that performs the song because of their ability to sing. Their talent gives them this role. It is not strange to find musicians that write their own songs. In fact, many of the talented musicians that songwriters seek start as their own composers.

Instrumentalists: This category of stakeholders refers to the people that play musical instruments to accompany music. They have a much-reduced role in recorded music especially because of the use of computer-based instrumentals. However, their role in live music is still intact. They are also in demand by instrumental music enthusiasts.

Producers: These are the professionals managing the music production process. They ensure that all necessary factors of music production come together to produce music

Technical personnel: There is a class of technical personnel necessary for the effective recording of music. They include sound engineers and recording technicians. Their role is to manage the technical factors of music production.

Record label companies: Since the advent of the gramophone record, companies came up to profit from the music industry. These companies continue to sign musicians and then support their careers at a fee. In other words, they provide musicians with everything they need to get their music out and then they share the proceeds.

Marketing companies: After the production of music, record label companies hand them over to marketing companies to send the music to the market. Some record label companies own the marketing companies that handle the marketing of the music they produce.

Retail distributors: The final important stakeholder in the music industry is the retail distributors. They make copies of the music available to the eventual consumer.

The stakeholders above represent the music supply chain where the eventual music gets to the consumer via tangible means, in this case, a disc. Other stakeholders benefit from music such as advertisers, movie producers and television companies. The important thing to note is that the industry is very large and the number of stakeholders is very large depending on the supply chain used to market a particular piece of music. For instance, there is no role for a record label company if a band or a musician decides to use concerts and music tours as the only way they distribute their music. On the other hand, they will need other people to support their business model.

An analysis of the music supply chain reveals the fact that the musician is only a small part of the entire process. The process of commercializing a musical production is a very complex business undertaking that needs more than just the musical skills of an artist to succeed.

In the same vein, it is imperative for musicians to have a working knowledge of commercial aspects of the music industry to ensure that they get the most out of their work. There are direct ways and indirect ways that the music industry uses to reach consumers. Direct ways refer to those that aim at reaching the eventual consumer and hence earn revenue from it. Indirect avenues refer to uses of music where the music forms part of the final product, or accompanies another product before reaching the final consumer.

Direct Strategies

This paper classifies indirect strategies used in the distribution of music as concerts, selling of a music bearing product, and thirdly, internet sales of music. These strategies feature actual transfer of the music from the musician to the end user.

Concerts are still a popular method used to earn revenues from music. With the globalization of music, musicians normally have fans in vary vast areas. Many fans of popular musicians have never met of seen their idol performing in person. This makes concerts a very powerful means of facilitating this interaction.

Revenue from concerts comes in different ways depending on the popularity of the musician. For very popular musicians, organizers sell tickets to cover the concert expenses and to pay the artist their performance fees. Some of these organisers use the concerts as a means of making a profit.

They bring in a musician to a local fan base, and organize the concert in such as a way that in the end they have a profit from ticket sales. A musician can also use personal resources to organize the concert and make a profit from it. In situations where the musician needs publicity, a concert can also help to raise the required awareness. In this case, the musician may either meet the cost of the concert as part of their marketing fees, and hope to recover their expenses by selling CDs.

A concert is also a good place to sell merchandise products to fans. A musician may arrange to sell t-shirts, jewellery, shoes and other fashion accessories that carry their brand. If well planned, this method can help meet the costs of organizing the concert. The advantage of converts is that they eliminate the risk of piracy. If a musician uses concerts as the exclusive means of distributing music, then there will be no copies of the music to pirate.

Selling CDs

In the life of the commercial music industry, there has always been a means of conveying music to consumers. While technology has moved from the gramophones to iPods, the principle remains unchanged. Mass commercialization of music took place when the magnetic tape came into existence.

This tape had certain advantages over the gramophone record such as portability. It was possible to carry a number of tapes on a trip using a very tiny carriage space. The walkman was also a revolutionary invention in the development of music. It made music personal. The magnetic tapes introduced the problem of piracy.

Magnetic tapes were erasable and easily reproducible. However, the impact of piracy in the era of the magnetic tape was not as serious as the impact of piracy on CD sales. Original tapes had a superior sound quality and there was a sense of prestige in having original tapes. CD’s do not have the same qualities.

The output quality of a pirated copy can match the original. CDs are still popular nonetheless as a means of selling music. In the late nineties, the success of a musician depended on the number of albums sold, while in the last ten years, the measure of a musician’s success is the number of CDs sold. Outlets for CD sales include local retail stores, bookshops, supermarkets and music stores. In addition, CD sales can form part of the revenue streams for a concert.

Internet Sales

The internet is a new avenue for the distribution of music. With the development of digital versions of music, it is possible to transfer music by digital means. Selling music via the internet has several advantages. First, it eliminates the need to transport music physically to retailers. The consumer simply logs in to a site such as eBay or iTunes and buys music. It is very easy and convenient to pay for music online using one of the many online money vendors. The most popular vendor is PayPal, but a number of competitors exist.

Sales from the internet cut out a number of intermediaries from the music supply chain. It is possible for a musician to pay studio time to record their music, and to make sales online without passing through a record label. The only copy the musician will need is the master copy of the music from the studio.

After that, it is theoretically possible to sell millions of copies of the music at no additional cost, or the need to make physical copies. This method of sales is becoming more attractive even for record labels because it reduces their distribution costs by a very large margin.

The final means through which musicians commercialise their music is by licensing. This refers to selling rights to the music, in whole or in part to a third party for their own use. Since music is an intellectual property, copyright laws protect the composers and the musicians by outlawing the use of the music without the consent of the musician.

The demand for licensing will increase as more and more people selling products online and advertising products through mass broadcast develop the need to piggyback their advertising messages on the music of popular musicians. Clients for licensing include moviemakers, advertising companies, video game makers and producers of television programs. A good example of this method of making money is the use of Celine Dion’s Song, “My heart will go on” in the Movie “Titanic”, produced by James Cameron.

Indirect Strategies

Some musicians have successfully developed merchandises from their music brand. The idea behind making products unrelated to music comes from the realization that a fan base is also a market niche. Developing products that can help fans to identify more with the brand makes the fans feel more attached to the musician.

The products that make successful merchandises are fashion items such as shoes, clothes, armlets, caps, bracelets, necklaces and T-shirts among others. It is feasible to produce perfumes, cosmetics and beauty products as a means of commercializing music. The basis of their success is the strength of the musical brand they represent, and the loyalty their fans have to them.

The music industry has been on the receiving end of both the positive and negative consequences of technological growth. In fact, music makes for a very viable subject when it comes to the study of the impact of technology in the modern world. As music becomes more and more reliant on technology for production and distribution, it is clear that the most significant challenges the industry faces are technology related.

These challenges include piracy, influx of software alternatives to musical instruments, ease of file sharing and file transfer, and the death of the album as a measure of success in the music industry. Another problem related to technological developments is the creation and retention of a fan base.

Piracy in music in its simplest terms refers to the production and sale of illegal copies of music. It does not matter whether it is a single song or a complete album. Piracy is not new in the music industry. Its recognition as a problem came about with the emergence of the magnetic tapes.

Magnetic tapes were easy to reproduce even at the domestic level. However, the real threat came from commercial piracy where people set up entire business systems that made counterfeit copies of music and sold them for profit. Often pirated copies of music had a lower quality compared to the originals hence the market put up some form of resistance against pirated music.

With the advent of digital technologies, it is almost impossible to detect a pirated copy of music from an original one by listening to it. This is making pirated music more acceptable. Moreover, CDs lack the prestige magnetic tapes had.

They are not very good show items. This has led to a lack of attachment comparable to the one that original magnetic tape owners and gramophone records enthusiasts exhibited.

In fact, it is very easy to simply take an original CD and in just a few minutes copy it onto a laptop’s hard disk. Unless new technologies inhibiting the making of digital copies of CDs get widespread use, the problem of piracy will continue to affect the music industry.

The Software Influx

On the creative end, music is suffering from an influx of softwares for use in the production of music. This comes from the fact that it is possible to make a song, complete with beats and instrumentals using a headset and an open source software. It is no longer necessary to learn the art of making music such as playing a musical instrument in order to produce the sound of that instrument.

What a person will learn in three months about playing a guitar, an average computer user with access to a music making software can reproduce within a day. The remaining frontier that computers have not yet conquered is singing. Theoretically speaking it will not be long before it becomes possible to reproduce voices of popular artists or to create fictionalised ones and synthesize their voices into music!

There is a real threat to music as a form of art. The space for creativity is reducing more and more. As people become more accustomed to music made by computers, the sounds of authentic artists playing authentic musical instruments will become strange.

As voices undergo scientific manipulation to perfect them in digital sound studios, there will be lesser recognition for the effort it takes to perfect a singers natural voice. It may not matter anymore.

Ease of File Sharing

Another problem that music faces today because of technological change is the ease of file sharing enabled by the internet. It is true that “Illegal downloading remains to be a continuous challenge for the recording industry”. Once one person in a clique of friends finds an interesting song in digital format, it is then very easy to pass on the song by forwarding the file to their friends.

In the context of social media, it may be hundreds of people in an instant. This whole clique will not need to buy the music thereafter, which wipes out that market. Sharing files is much harder to track especially when the sharing takes place in privately held email accounts. This problem eats into the potential revenue a musician can make from their music.

Death of the Album

The next threat to the development of music is the death of the album. Musicians are working harder to produce near perfect singles rather than committing time to produce full albums. The current distribution systems of music make it easier and more economical to produce a hit single and then go find the next big song rather than sell a whole album to an audience.

In addition to this, people no longer listen to whole albums the old-fashioned way. Rather, they listen to specific songs of interest from different albums. People are listening to music on digital media more and more. Whether it is a CD player, a laptop, a phone or an iPod, a user creates a playlist and listens to the particular songs of interest. Unlike records and magnetic tapes, picking specific songs is not a laborious activity.

The response on the side of musicians has been to provide music in detachable formats hence fuelling this new trend. The problem it posses to music is that it reduces the power of music as a communication tool. The art of producing music albums revolved around the capacity of the musician to produce a set of songs based on a particular theme thereby increasing the communicative value of their music.

Creating and Keeping a Fan Base

Globalization and “increased amateur activity” in the music industry because of the lowering of entry barriers have made it very difficult to develop and retain a fan base. Music markets span the world and are not in specific geographical confines. For a musician to reach such a diverse audience, it calls for a lot of work.

The challenge of raising a fan base also stems from the difficulty of getting through to the fans because of the high number of musicians looking for their attention. Remember, music is not the only input an average music fan receives. It is a constant struggle to keep looking for an appropriate means to find and maintain a fan base.

In order to address the issues facing music, it is important to have certain things in mind. First, there is need to recognize that a successful music career depends on the soundness of the business strategy used to distribute it. The musician needs a source of income, and the most efficient way of making a living is through the music.

A successful musical career requires dedication and focus, which a part time hobby just cannot allow. Secondly, music is essentially an art form. Therefore, the commercial aspects of music do not have the last word on the success of music.

The intrinsic appreciation of music by enthusiasts transcends the challenges that modern music must deal with. In this sense, the technological challenges music faces cannot kill music. However, every musician must find a way of overcoming these challenges.

Using Piracy to Advantage

While piracy imputes illicit gain on the part of the commercial pirate, some concession on the part of the musicians can reduce the impact that piracy has on their careers. For instance, a musician can decide to use pirate networks to build publicity and to grow their fan base.

After all, it is the demand for the music by their fans that makes the music pirates find it attractive to make illicit copies. Even better, if the perceived losses in revenue by the distribution of illicit copies do not outweigh the benefits from the resulting publicity, then it may make sense for a musician to allow their music to pass through pirate channels.

Another safe way of avoiding pirate channels can be the use a business model that does not rely on the digital copies for success. This can include the sale of merchandize to raise funds for the music. If fans know that a musician does not sell their music but instead uses merchandise to pay for its production, they will be supportive of the efforts.

The other way to beat piracy is to release music free of charge for personal use but to position the music as a product for licensing. If the song is popular, them someone will want to use it for their promotional campaigns.

This model will make it easy for the musician to monitor commercial uses of their music and to make money from royalties. Giving out the music without cost will also make the music available to many people thereby growing the fan base.

“Live Music” Tag to Mitigate Software Threat

The threat posed by software will be very difficult to beat. Music lovers are listening to more and more computer generated music that it is only a matter of time before music from real instruments becomes odd. The only way to ensure that the taste for music made from real instruments remains is by providing opportunities for the fans to listen to live band music.

It is possible to use concerts for this purpose. Another method would be to add the label, “made from real Instruments” to such productions to differentiate the music from the rest. This approach will likely create a market niche for music lovers who value the art of making music from real instruments.

Education that File Sharing Constitutes Piracy

After establishing a fan base, it may be necessary to educate fans on the fact that file sharing is as bad as piracy. While a fan does not derive economic value from the copies they share, they deny the musician potential revenue when they share musical files with their friends.

A musician can exercise a certain amount of persuasion over loyal fans hence it makes sense to try to persuade them against sharing files. Moral persuasion is the best tool available for a musician because any other method of dealing with piracy will be very expensive. Policing piracy is a very expensive undertaking, which is difficult even for organised law enforcement agencies.

Letting the Album Die and Creation of Collector Albums

The traditional album seems headed for certain death. However, it is not a trend worth trying to change. This is because the way people listen to music no longer supports music delivered in album format.

From today’s standpoint, it is inconceivable that people will revert to the old ways of listening to music the way magnetic tapes and gramophone records forced them to. They do not have to listen to music sequentially but can choose to shuffle them, skip, or rearrange them in the way they wish.

On the other hand, it may be helpful to sell collections of singles such as the best hits by an artist in the last two years. Just as people no longer look for whole albums, they will only be interested in songs that please them.

Another way of looking at this situation is to consider it a marketing situation where the old way of packaging music does not support current consumption trends. Artists will therefore have the increased burden of planning their songs in a way that they each song stands alone. What should guide them is more of a philosophy rather than a theme when writing their songs.

Use of Social Media to Create and Maintain Fans

The need to raise and maintain a fan base will not become easier with time. The good thing is that technology has solutions to the same problems it has created for the music industry. The difference between a successful musician and a non-starter may well be their social media strategy.

The young generation, who support the emerging music industry, spend a lot of their time on social media platforms. With a good strategy, it is possible to grow a fan base using the tools available there. In fact, a musician today has more opportunities to build and maintain a fan base by adopting existing technologies to do the work that old musicians travelled thousands of miles to do.

Alternative Income Sources

It is incumbent upon musicians to continue thinking about more income streams that they can use to bolster their financial standing. Granted, there is a point where too much commercialization of music can actually kill the art. However, without some kind of income, artists cannot commit themselves fully to the art of making music.

Musicians should do their best to find new ways of utilizing their talent for income. As they do this, record labels also should work hard to find ways of making music available to users at a lower cost and in a manner, which discourages piracy. It is vital to develop CD technologies that will resist duplication. While technically it is very complex to do this, it is vital to find ways of reducing this vice. Piracy is a real vice that threatens the future of music.

The music industry is not exempt from changes in technology. If anything, the music industry bears the brunt historically whenever there are groundbreaking changes in technology. For the music industry to survive beyond this point as a commercial venture, it will need to adapt its systems to fit the current circumstances.

Holmes, D 2005, Communication Theory: Media, Technology, and Society , SAGE, London, UK.

Mather 2012, ‘Print & Digital Audience Pricing Strategies’, Mather Economics, Roswell, GA.

Project Management Institute 2003, A Guide To The Project Management Body Of Knowledge , Project Management Institute, San Diego.

Weichmann, D 2009, The Impact of Online Music Services on the Music Recording Industry: Opportunities and Challenges , GRIN Verlag, Berlin.

Wikstrom, P 2010, The Music Industry: Music in the Cloud , Polity, Cambridge.

Wilson, HJ, Guinan, PJ, Parise, S & Weinberg, BD 2011, ‘What is your Social Media Strategy’, Havard Business Review .

Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, November 30). The Music Industry. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-music-industry/

"The Music Industry." IvyPanda , 30 Nov. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/the-music-industry/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'The Music Industry'. 30 November.

IvyPanda . 2023. "The Music Industry." November 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-music-industry/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Music Industry." November 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-music-industry/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Music Industry." November 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-music-industry/.

The Police Tapes by Alan and Susan Raymonds Review
The Magnetic Tape Recorder, Its History and Technological Advancements
How Does Piracy Affect the Music Industry?
Music Downloads and the Ethics of Piracy
The Beatles Album Revolver
A case against Software Piracy
The Beatles Band's Best Music Album
Postmodern Politics and the Beatle’s "White Album"
Problems of the Software Piracy
"Where Are You Now, My Son?" Album by Joan Baez
Traffic Congestion and Hindi FM
Digitization and Convergence of Music Industry
Sony BMG Music Entertainment
Technology Advances and Music
Music Industry as a Cultural Industry

Guide on How to Write a Music Essay: Topics and Examples

Let's Understand What is Music Essay

You know how some school assignments are fun to write by default, right? When students see them on the course syllabus, they feel less like a burden and more like a guaranteed pleasure. They are about our interests and hobbies and therefore feel innate and intuitive to write. They are easy to navigate, and interesting topic ideas just pop into your head without much trouble.

Music essays belong to the category of fun essay writing. What is music essay? Anything from in-depth analysis to personal thoughts put into words and then to paper can fall into a music essay category. An essay about music can cover a wide range of topics, including music history, theory, social impact, significance, and musical review. It can be an analytical essay about any music genre, musical instruments, or today's music industry.

Don't get us wrong, you will still need to do extensive research to connect your opinions to a broader context, and you can't step out of academic writing standards, but the essay writing process will be fun.

In this article, our custom essay writing service is going to guide you through every step of writing an excellent music essay. You can draw inspiration from the list of music essay topics that our team prepared, and later on, you will learn what an outstanding essay on music is by an example of a music review essay.

What are Some Music Topics to Write About

There are so many exciting music topics to write about. We would have trouble choosing one. You can write about various music genres, be it country music or classical music; you can research music therapy or how music production happens.

Okay, forgive us for getting carried away; music makes us enthusiastic. Below you will find a list of various music essay topics prepared from our thesis writing service . Choose one and write a memorable essay about everyone's favorite art form.

Music Argumentative Essay Topics

Music essays can be written about an infinite number of themes. You can even write about performance or media comparison.

Here is a list of music argumentative essay topics. These edge-cutting topics will challenge your readers and get you an easy A+.

Exploring the evolution of modern music styles of the 21st century
Is it ethical to own and play rare musical instruments?
Is music therapy an effective mental health treatment?
Exploring the Intersection of Technology and Creativity in electronic music
The Relevance of traditional music theory in modern music production
The Role of musical pieces in the Transmission of cultural identity
The value of historical analysis in understanding the significance of music in society
How does exposing listeners to different genres of music break down barriers
Exploring the cognitive effects of music on human brain development
The therapeutic potential of music in treating mental disorders

Why is Music Important Essay Topics

Do you know which essay thrills our team the most? The importance of music in life essay. We put our minds together and came up with a list of topics about why music is so central to human life. Start writing why is music important essay, and we guarantee you that you will be surprised by how much fun you had crafting it.

Popular Music and its Role in shaping cultural trends
Music as a metaphorical language for expressing emotions and thoughts
How music changes and influences social and political movements
How the music of different countries translates their history to outsiders
The innate connection between music and human beings
How music helps us understand feelings we have never experienced
Does music affect our everyday life and the way we think?
Examining the cross-cultural significance of music in society
How rock music influenced 70's political ideologies
How rap music closes gaps between different racial groups in the US

Consider delegating your ' write my essay ' request to our expert writers for crafting a perfect paper on any music topic!

Why I Love Music Essay Topics

We want to know what is music to you, and the best way to tell us is to write a why I love music essay. Below you will find a list of music essay topics that will help you express your love for music.

I love how certain songs and artists evoke Memories and Emotions
I love the diversity of music genres and how different styles enrich my love for music
I love how music connects me with people of different backgrounds
How the music of Linkin Park helped me through life's toughest challenges
What does my love for popular music say about me?
How the unique sounds of string instruments fuel my love for music
How music provides a temporary Release from the stresses of daily life
How music motivates me to chase my dreams
How the raw energy of rock music gets me through my daily life
Why my favorite song is more than just music to me

Need a Music Essay ASAP?

Our expert team is quick to get you an A+ on all your assignments!

Music Therapy Essay Topics

One of the most interesting topics about music for an essay is music therapy. We are sure you have heard all the stories of how music cures not only mental but also physical pains. Below you can find a list of topics that will help you craft a compelling music therapy essay. And don't forget that you can always rely on our assistance for fulfilling your ' write my paper ' requests!

The effectiveness of music therapy in reducing stress and pain for cancer patients
Does pop music have the same effects on music therapy as classical music?
Exploring the benefits of music therapy with other genres beyond classical music
The potential of music therapy in aiding substance abuse treatment and recovery
The Role of music therapy in Addressing PTSD and Trauma in military veterans
The impact of music therapy on enhancing social interaction and emotional expression in individuals with developmental disabilities
The use of music therapy in managing chronic pain
Does musical therapy help depression?
Does music reduce anxiety levels?
Is music therapy better than traditional medicine?

History of Music Essay Topics

If you love analytical essays and prefer to see the bigger picture, you can always write a music description essay. Below you can find some of the most interesting topics for the history of music essay.

The Significance of natural instruments in music production and performance
Tracing the historical development of Western music theory
How electronic music traces its roots back to classical music
How the music industry evolved from sheet music to streaming services
How modern producers relate to classical composers
The Origins and Influence of Jazz Music
How folk music saved the Stories of unnamed heroes
Do we know what the music of ancient civilizations sounded like?
Where does your favorite bandstand in the line of music evolve?
The Influence of African American Music on modern pop culture

Benefits of Music Essay Topics

If you are someone who wonders what are some of the values that music brings to our daily life, you should write the benefits of music essay. The music essay titles below can inspire you to write a captivating essay:

How music can be used to promote cultural awareness and understanding
The benefits of music education in promoting creativity and innovation
The social benefits of participating in music groups
The Impact of Music on Memory and Learning
The cognitive benefits of music education in early childhood development
The effects of music on mood and behavior
How learning to play an instrument improves cognitive functions.
How music connects people distanced by thousands of miles
The benefits of listening to music while exercising
How music can express the feelings words fail to do so

Music Analysis Essay Example

Reading other people's papers is a great way to scale yours. There are many music essay examples, but the one crafted by our expert writers stands out in every possible way. You can learn what a great thesis statement looks like, how to write an engaging introduction, and what comprehensive body paragraphs should look like.

Click on the sample below to see the music analysis essay example.

How to Write a Music Essay with Steps

Writing music essays is definitely not rocket science, so don't be afraid. It's just like writing any other paper, and a music essay outline looks like any other essay structure.

Start by choosing a music essay topic. You can use our list above to get inspired. Choose a topic about music that feels more relevant and less researched so you can add brand-new insights. As we discussed, your music essay can be just about anything; it can be a concert report or an analytical paper about the evolution of music.
Continue by researching the topic. Gather all the relevant materials and information for your essay on music and start taking notes. You can use these notes as building blocks for the paper. Be prepared; even for short essays, you may need to read books and long articles.
Once you have all the necessary information, the ideas in your head will start to take shape. The next step is to develop a thesis statement out of all the ideas you have in your head. A thesis statement is a must as it informs readers what the entire music essay is about. Don't be afraid to be bold in your statement; new outlooks are always appreciated.
Next, you'll need a music essay introduction. Here you introduce the readers to the context and background information about the research topic. It should be clear, brief, and engaging. You should set the tone of your essay from the very beginning. Don't forget the introduction is where the thesis statement goes.
One of the most important parts of essay writing is crafting a central body paragraph about music. This is where you elaborate on your thesis, make main points, and support them with the evidence you gathered beforehand. Remember, your music essay should be well structured and depict a clear picture of your ideas.
Next, you will need to come up with an ideal closing paragraph. Here you will need to once again revisit the main points in your music essay, restate them in a logical manner and give the readers your final thoughts.
Don't forget to proofread your college essay. Whether you write a long or short essay on music, there will be grammatical and factual errors. Revise and look through your writing with a critical mind. You may find that some parts need rewriting.

Key Takeaways

Music essays are a pleasure to write and read. There are so many topics and themes to choose from, and if you follow our How to Write a Music Essay guide, you are guaranteed to craft a top-notch essay every time.

Be bold when selecting a subject even when unsure what is research essay topic on music, take the writing process easy, follow the academic standards, and you are good to go. Use our music essay sample to challenge yourself and write a professional paper.

If you feel stuck and have no time our team of expert writers is always ready to give you help from all subject ( medical school personal statement school help ). Visit our website, submit your ' write my research paper ' request and a guaranteed A+ essay will be on your way in just one click.

Need Help in Writing an Impressive Paper?

Our expert writers are here to write a quality paper that will make you the star of your class!

FAQs on Writing a Music Essay

Though music essay writing is not the hardest job on the planet, there are still some questions that often pop up. Now that you have a writing guide and a list of essay topics about music, it's time to address the remaining inquiries. Keep reading to find the answers to the frequently asked questions.

Should Artists' Music be Used in Advertising?

What type of music is best for writing an essay, why do people love music, related articles.

How to Write a Summary of a Book with an Example

267 Music Essay Topics + Writing Guide [2024 Update]

Your mood leaves a lot to be desired. Everything around you is getting on your nerves. But still, there’s one thing that may save you: music. Just think of all the times you turned on your favorite song, and it lifted your spirits!

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

So, why not write about it in a music essay? In this article, you’ll find all the information necessary for this type of assignment:

267 brilliant music essay topics,
a sample paper,
a step-by-step guide and writing tips.

And don’t forget to bookmark  custom-writing.org  where you can find helpful essay tips in articles like this one.

🔝 Music Essay Topics: Top 10

🎵 Music Essay Definition
🎼 Essay Topics
✍️ How to Write
📑 Essay Sample

🔗 References

Compare different recording formats.
The purpose of music.
Ternary and rondo: compare and contrast.
Music as a lifestyle.
The benefits of singing.
Ethnomusicology as a career.
Evolution of the radio.
The importance of school musicals.
Music as a tool for meditation.
Music in sports.

🎵 Essays about Music: What Are They?

A music essay describes or analyzes a piece of music, its context, or one’s personal attitude towards it. This type of assignment requires a compelling primary argument and a clear structure.

To write well about music, you don’t have to be a professional musician. All you need is to be able to listen, understand, and evaluate it. You should also provide your interpretation and opinion on it.

Writing about Music: Assignment Types

An essay on music is a popular assignment in high school and college. However, many students find it hard to describe sounds in a written form. In this article, we will give you some tips on writing about music.

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

Here are the typical tasks that you might receive:

Concert report. It requires describing the music you’ve heard using as many details and terms as you can.
Historical analysis of a piece. Your aim is to describe the historical context of a piece or its relation to the historical setting. For this type of assignment, you may need to do some research.
Song analysis. In this type of essay, you explore song lyrics’ meaning and show how they work together with the melody.
Performance or media comparison. Here you need to compare several interpretations or performances of one piece of music.

The picture shows different tasks related to writing about music.

All of these assignments require a different approach and topic. You will find topics for these types of tasks below.

How to Choose a Music Essay Topic

First things first, you need to find a suitable music essay topic. To accomplish this task, you might want to take the following steps:

Analyze your relationship with music . What role does it play in your life? Your topic choice will be different if you are a musician or merely a listener.
Think about how music influences your everyday life . For instance, you can study how listening to music affects our mental health. Impressing your readers with some historical facts from the world of music is also a great idea.
Try reflecting on the role of different music genres in your life . Whether you prefer rap or classical music, exploring a genre is an excellent topic idea. Topics related to musical instruments are also worth attention.
Narrow your topic down. Otherwise, it will be too difficult to focus your essay on just one idea.

🎼 Music Essay Topics List

The first thing you need to do is to choose your topic. We have prepared a variety of music topics perfect for research papers and short essays. You can also use them for speeches or college application essays.

Argumentative Essay about Music: Topics & Ideas

Argumentative essays about music are usually concerned with a specific music-related issue you choose to address. Just like with any other argumentative essay, you should present both sides of the topic. Also, reliable facts are a must for this type of essay.

Receive a plagiarism-free paper tailored to your instructions. Cut 20% off your first order!

The influence of modern technologies on the music industry. Technologies allow artists to create and promote their songs independently. Because of this, record labels are less critical to musicians than before. However, the emergence of new technologies also gave rise to piracy . Do the positives outweigh the negatives?
What’s the effect of pop music on the modern generation? Today’s pop songs are usually commercial . Because of this, some people say that pop has ruined the current generations’ perception of music. Others argue that contemporary pop music expanded the possibilities of the genre.
Rock music makes people more aggressive . Some consider rock music merely an arrangement of aggressive tunes that foster violence. On the counter side, science has proven that people who prefer rock to other genres are calmer and more concentrated. Which position do you agree with?
Can people with hearing impairments become famous musicians ? Many believe that access to fame and fortune is limited for disabled people. The deaf may seem especially unsuited for the music business . Yet, the examples of Beethoven, Neil Young, and Chris Martin show that hearing problems don’t have to be an issue.
Will streaming completely substitute physical copies? Digitalization is on its way to replacing LPs and CDs. For most people, it’s simply more convenient. But their opponents claim that an MP3 file can never sound as good as a physical copy.
Some music genres can be a catalyst for violence. While their beats may be calm, hip-hop and rap’s lyrics are often aggressive and brutal. Does it have adverse effects on a listener?
Can a person become addicted to music?
Censorship on the radio: why stations shouldn’t bleep out obscenities.
Is mandatory musical education in high schools practical?
The impact of Mozart’s music on toddlers.
Should a musician’s personal life affect people’s perception of their art?
How susceptible are teenagers to political messages in songs?
Music influences one’s mental and physical capabilities .
Are children who listen to music more intelligent than others?
Music genres are inherently dependent on musical instruments .
Is music as an art form more popular than cinema ?
Debate whether rap musicians promote a frivolous and careless lifestyle .
Many musicians became famous only because they’ve had connections.
Music festivals are the best form of entertainment.
Does music always sound better live than on records?
Is classical music better than modern genres?
Is it justified that some religions view music as a sin?
Typically, music defines a culture and its traditions: true or false?
Rap music has a strong connection to rebellious movements.
Jamaican music’s link to the stoner lifestyle is unjustified.
Synesthesia: how is music related to visuals?

Opinion on Music: Essay Topics

Opinion essays about music might seem similar to the argumentative type. Here, you are expected to write your personal opinion on a topic. Naturally, you can have many opinions on musical topics. Why not broadcast them? Keep in mind that you also need to provide reasons for your point of view.

Music therapy can help people with mental illnesses . It’s a well-known fact that music affects the human brain. This ability makes it perfect for treating mental health problems. On the one hand, psychologists established that listening to classical music increases one’s cognitive capacity . On the other hand, listening to heavy rock impacts responsiveness.
The questionable treatment of women in the music industry . While it may seem that both sexes are treated equally, women still earn much less than they deserve. Moreover, the extreme sexualization of girls persists as one of the most pressing problems in the industry.
Which musician or band impacted your worldview ? Discuss what makes your favorite artist special. Consider analyzing their lyrics, genre, and evolution. If you want to, add a review of one of their albums .
What are the challenges of being an independent artist? Typically, independent artists deal with all the financial, promotional, and distributional affairs by themselves. In the increasingly complex music business, this is not an easy task.
Is social media efficient for promotion? Almost every modern artist uses social media to promote their albums or songs. Users often check their networks for updates, which increases the musician’s visibility. But do such methods help in the long run?
Passion is the essential personal quality for every musician . If an artist is not eager to continually produce high-quality output, they’re unlikely to succeed. However, qualities such as responsibility, honesty, hard work, and creativity are also vital.
Is music good for stress relief?
How does music connect people ?
Analyze qualities that good musicians shouldn’t have.
Who are the most excellent musicians in the country genre ?
Is it possible to live without interacting with music ?
Choose three successful rappers and analyze their influence.
How can a musician become famous without having money or connections?
What are the difficulties of being in a band ?
Who impacted the development of indie music the most?
Is pop music losing its popularity? If so, why?
Three factors that affected your choice of a favorite genre .
Which artists are the most prominent in power metal?
Which record label is the most influential now?
Can Justin Bieber’s songs be considered legendary?
Did Kanye West introduce a new kind of rap?
Which rock bands lost their fame because of a scandal ? How did it happen?
Discuss Dire Straits’ impact on music history .
Who are currently the most successful women pop singers ?
Why are some music genres more popular than others?
What does success in the music world depend on ?

Topics for a Persuasive Essay about Music

Is there anything music-related you want to convince people of? A persuasive paper is your chance. Carefully craft your arguments to show your readers you’ve always been right about the beauty of cowbells. If it’s not your jam, consider these essay topics about music:

A seven-string guitar is superior to a six-string one. The additional string gives more room for creativity. It might be challenging to master, but in the end, the music has a fuller sound . Do you think it’s worth the effort?
The lyrics don’t matter as long as the melody is good. It’s possible to like songs from different countries, even if the listener doesn’t understand the language. The singing is simply part of the composition. Does this mean that what the vocalist says is unimportant?

The picture shows the information about the oldest surviving musical composition.

Most people living in big cities neglect country music. People from urban areas tend to think that country music is tasteless. For them, its tunes and lyrics sound too simple. Does the strong association with cowboys, farms, and long roads simply not appeal to the city lifestyle?
Should rap music be performed only by black people ? The genre hosts a large portion of African American artists . Not only that, but black rappers are widely considered the best of their craft. Do white artists do the genre justice?
Music that artists make merely to get money is soulless. Passion is a critical factor for every musician. If money is the primary driver for creating a song , the result is inevitably flawed. Do you agree?
Pop music is undergoing a transformation. Listeners acknowledge pop as the primary genre of contemporary music . Yet, new musical instruments are changing the game. Even the lyrics touch on more serious topics than before.
Indie is the new pop. Indie music is a relatively novel genre. Still, it continues to gain popularity. The light-hearted tunes paired with existential lyrics have captured the audience’s hearts. Is it possible to envision the future of music without bands such as Coldplay, The 1975, and the Arctic Monkeys?
The meaning of freedom for jazz as a musical genre .
Punk rock has recently witnessed a renaissance.
Exposing plants to classical music makes them grow faster.
Classical music: intellectually stimulating or relaxing ?
Is it justified that some countries legally prohibit artists from performing?
Is it easier for children to learn with music?
Can a person ever become a great artist without a natural talent ?
Should workplaces allow their employees to listen to background music ?
Jimi Hendrix’s guitar skills are still unmatched.
The impact of pop music on European culture and trends.
Kurt Cobain’s death should have been a wake-up call for the music industry .
Why is music beneficial to society?
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s legacy can be felt even today.
Nintendocore is a legitimate genre that the industry should take more seriously.
Should you listen to a bands’ music even if you disagree with their opinions ?
Musicians should receive more government support.
Patriotic songs make people feel passionate and energetic about their country.
Depressive and sad tunes can worsen a person’s mood.
Doctors and therapists need to understand the importance of music .

Music Evaluation Essay Topics

Do you want to know how to evaluate music? The point is to divide your overall impression into several parts. Music evaluation requires much attention and concentration, so try to do your best to stay focused while listening.

Use these criteria for evaluating music performances:

Now all you need to do is choose a topic and get down to writing!

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

Discuss the rise and fall of hardcore punk. Many bands that started in the hardcore punk scene softened their sound over time. Why did this genre disappear from the mainstream?
Copyright laws are going too far . It’s getting increasingly difficult to use somebody else’s intellectual property. Creators on YouTube have to fear lawsuits for creatively repurposing copyrighted music. Moreover, laws such as the DMCA are frequently abused to generate revenues.
More bands should use their influence for political purposes . Renowned artists have a broad reach. Bands like Rise Against or Anti Flag use this influence to raise political awareness among their fans. Is it a fair approach?
Borrowing and plagiarism in contemporary music . New artists don’t emerge without having listened to other musicians. They draw inspiration from their predecessors. Thus, songs are always a mix of already existing tracks. In your essay, discuss the difference between homage and plagiarism.
What are the similarities between poetry and song lyrics? Songs and poems are similar in that they deliver a message to the audience. Their creation demands extensive knowledge of rhyming, literary devices, and other components.
Why do some musicians ask others to write lyrics for them? It is a common practice to have a crew of songwriters who create texts for performers. Sometimes it happens due to a lack of imagination or inspiration. Does finding out that your favorite artist doesn’t write their lyrics destroy the magic of their music?
How can popular music diversify as a genre? Pop music reached its peak. Adding and borrowing elements from different genres can be one way to diversify a streamlined genre.
The history of music as political propaganda .
Explain the difference between high and low contemporary music culture .
How is contemporary music related to that from other periods?
What are the connections between pop music and the hip-hop genre?
What connects popular music and contemporary culture ?
How does music in the United States relate to Spanish music ?
Analyze the evolution of Indian music .
Discuss why certain albums manage to climb to the top of the charts.
The link between social classes and musical genres.
Differences and similarities of music and other art forms .
How does a musical instrument’s origin influence its development?
What is the role of traditional music today?

The picture shows a Victor Hugo quote about music.

What are the main processes in music production?
How is music theory relevant today?
Analyze which contemporary artists’ albums had an effect comparable to that of Queen’s A Night at the Opera .
Eurodance: Europe’s most extravagant genre.
Songs and everyday life of Michael Jackson vs. Madonna: who wins the ultimate pop crown?
What difficulties has Eminem faced throughout his career?
Over-ear headphones provide a better sound experience than on-ear ones.

Topics for an Expository Essay on Music

An expository essay explains or describes a subject. In the colorful world of music, topics can range from the physics of sound waves to artists’ social impact.

The importance of Blues music in the late 19 th century and now . Blues originated in the 19 th century American South. It was an outlet for African Americans to express their sorrows. Later, it exceeded by far the cultural boundaries that confined it.
The role of music in prison camps. Singing was an essential part of life in the Nazi concentration camps . One of the most well-known songs of that time is called Peat Bog Soldiers . In your expository essay, explore why prisoners started singing and how it developed.
How did Chester Bennington’s death impact the music industry? Linkin Park was a giant in the business for decades until depression made their lead singer take his own life. The event sparked debates surrounding mental health and pressure in the creative industry. What long-lasting effects did these discussions have?
How did Baroque music reflect the zeitgeist? Compared to the Renaissance period, Baroque was in all aspects very pompous. The artists of the Sun King’s time didn’t shy away from the extravaganza. This ideal is especially prominent in architecture. How does music fit into the picture?
Investigate the development of musical harmony. The Ancient Greeks already had an idea of some tones fitting together better than others. However, it wasn’t until the 1600s that tonality became a crucial part of music theory.
Music in commercials: an analysis. Songs and jingles are commonplace in TV commercials. But what are they good for? In your essay, you can compare the success of advertisements with and without music.
What causes music trends to change? It’s easy to define various eras of music . Naturally, the invention of new instruments has influenced this development. What other factors played a role in these transformations?
Why is 4/4 a universal beat?
Examine the origins of The Star-Spangled Banner .
The effects of dissonance on the human mind .
How do staccato, legato, and other forms of articulation influence the perception of a musical piece ?
Discuss the significance of music in video games .
Music drives people’s motivation.
Explain the calming effects of nature sounds .
How does music influence literature ?
Celtic music is known to have an extraordinary impact on the psyche. How does it work?
How does music impact the discharge of hormones such as dopamine?
Music therapy is suitable for those who have bipolar disorder .
What made Falco such a unique artist?
How does the perception of a silent film differ from that of a movie with sound?
A rock concert by Kansas: How the relevance of live concerts changed over time .
Is being able to read music important for a composer ?
How did Beethoven write music after losing his hearing?
Should all songs have proper rhythm and structure?
Why do so many indie artists become commercial?
Is it essential for song lyrics to rhyme?

History of Music: Essay Topics

If you’re interested in the evolution of music, you’ve come to the right section. Historical research reveals the significance of music throughout time. Unsurprisingly, songs and melodies have been part of human culture for centuries. Dive deeper into this exciting subject with one of the following ideas:

How did the Catholic Church influence music development in Europe? During the Middle Ages , religious movements had a significant impact on music. Consequently, composers used to create more sacred music. It became a way of personal expression since it often contained religious texts. 
The cultural meaning of Renaissance music and its influence on other styles . During the time of the Renaissance , sacred and secular music heavily impacted each other. As a result, more variety emerged. The chanson and madrigal, for example, became popular around Europe.
Research archaeological findings of early musicality. The search for the oldest musical instrument delivers thrilling insights. Archaeologists have excavated a flute made of ivory and bird bones, dating approximately 43,000 years ago. They found it in a cave in Germany where Neanderthals lived.
History of early music and appearance of musical instruments. The beginning of the human culture was the turning point of musical instruments’ appearance. They were primarily used for spiritual rites; typically, they were horns or drums for ceremonies.
Louis Armstrong’s contributions to the jazz world. Jazz originated in New Orleans and was a favorite among African Americans. Louis Armstrong’s improvisations forever changed the genre, making the soloist-improviser the center of the performance.
The phenomenon of pop music and its origins. Popular music dates back to the second half of the last century. It comes from the US and the UK. Its main peculiarity lies in the variety of tunes and lyrics .
Native American music before the discovery of the New World . Incas and Aztecs had particular styles of music. Findings show that these ancient civilizations used instruments for ceremonies. Researchers also discovered that various American cultures mingled, thus creating new techniques.
The use of string instruments in classical Greek songwriting.
Famous composers of 18th century Italy and their influence.
Mozart vs. Beethoven: comparison of techniques.
Deliver a thoughtful analysis of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony .
What role do acoustic instruments play in jazz compositions ?
Explore the history of the Ocarina.
Due to what circumstances did Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart become one of the greatest musical geniuses in history?
Influence of the Romantic period on modern music .
How and why were the swing era and jazz connected?
Rock and roll as an international language in the 20th century.
Explore the rise of techno music.
Is there a historical connection between music and math ?
How did music become a staple subject in many schools?
The greatest musicians of World War I .
Industrialization and its effect on music development.
How did female producers such as Kate Bush impact the music industry?
Analyze Frédéric Chopin’s contribution to classical music .
Music evolution in ancient Greece vs. the Roman Empire .
How does archeology help to uncover musical traditions ?
Tupac’s influence on modern rap music .

Classification Essay about Music: Topic Ideas

In a classification essay, you explain how a whole relates to parts or vice versa. To do it, you need to divide one broad category into several subcategories. Each classification paragraph focuses on one subcategory, so you need to find a key feature that will be your basis of division. For example, you can divide music by genre, volume, musical instruments, etc.

Here is our list of musical topics for this essay type:

The most popular types of alternative music among teenagers. Naturally, teens like different kinds of rock and experimental music . Try to dig deeper and ask some teenagers about their preferences to get a clear picture.
Types of modern dance music . Describe the tendencies and popular genres. You can also focus on a specific country.
The most popular types of jazz music in Europe . Although jazz emerged in the United States, this genre became recognizable all over the world. You can analyze the most popular streamed songs, or the concerts and other mass events.
Rock music in the ’70s. You can describe the genres, styles, or types of performers. The concerts, clothes, and lifestyles are also suitable for this topic.
Blues musicians of different time periods. Analyze the lyrics, the musical instruments they used, and how long their careers lasted.
Classification of music for children . Some of it can be for dancing, development, or just listening. Research the purposes of different kinds of music for children.
Types of music used in films. The soundtrack is one of the main things we remember after watching a movie. There can be popular songs or tracks composed specifically for a film .
Rock bands that represent different subgenres.
Rap subgenres in the United States.
Periods of classical music.
What motivates people to start a musical career?
Different kinds of music for relaxation.
The industries where composers work .
Types of opera singers and instrumental music .
Different professions in the music industry .
Unpopular genres of independent music.
Different types of music listeners .

College Essay about Music: Topics

When you apply to your dream college, you need to write an impressive essay. Admissions officers pay attention not only to your grades and achievements but also to your personality. Your writing can indicate your motivation, academic interests, and how well you fit into the college. Writing an essay about “music in my life” is a great way to demonstrate your passion and creativity.

Choose one of these topics related to music for your college essay:

The role of music in your life . Describe what music means to you, how often you listen to it, and how it helps you in life. For example, you can write about inspiration, motivation, or the sense of freedom that it gives you.
What are the essential aspects of music for you? Try to write down everything you like about music. It might be melodies, lyrics, vocals, or mood. You can choose several aspects if you feel that you can’t decide.
The time when music changed your life. In this essay, you can pick one occurrence or describe how music changed your life gradually. It’s important to indicate where you started from and where it led you.
How do you see the future of the music industry? Demonstrate to the admissions officer how well you know the art and the business.
Your role model in the music industry. You may write about the qualities of the person you admire and why you want to develop them in yourself. Remember that admission officers want to read about you, not your idol.
How did your musical taste change over the last ten years? Describe the evolution of your preferences. Explain why you have changed some of your past choices. Do you think your musical taste has improved?
Your favorite musical genre .
Does listening to music help to heal body and spirit?
What is the best music performance you have ever seen?
Why do people become fans of particular musicians?
Your favorite song lyrics .
Can people be judged by their musical taste?
Why is music an essential part of human culture?
Quote about music that appeals to you the most.
How can music education help you in the future?
Do you prefer listening to music or performing it?
How can music change your mood?
Why you want to become a musician.
Which culture has the most beautiful ethnical music ?
Is music more of an art or business?
What are the essential parts of musical education ?

✍️ Music Essay: How to Write

So, you have chosen your essay title. Now it’s time to start writing! But before you begin, read the sections below and learn how to organize your work.

How to Describe Music in Writing

You might think that writing about music is like dancing about architecture. Well, it is not an easy task, but we know how to cope with it.

Follow these tips while writing:

Make a comparison. Explain which characteristics of a piece remind you or are identical to those of another one. It’s better to avoid comparing music from different composers in this case. Instead, evaluate and analyze two musical pieces from the same composer.
Describe the melody and dynamics. You may want to use musical terms to show your knowledge and proficiency. Define the genre and what kind of instruments and tones are used.
Explain how it makes you feel. You can use basic human emotions to describe the feelings of a listener. For example, it can be anger, tenderness, irritation, excitement, or nostalgia.
Use metaphorical language. You may try using your imagination to create analogies. Be careful not to make your metaphors overcomplicated, as it may confuse the readers.

Essays about Music: Descriptive Words

Do you want your essay on music to be interesting and expressive? Then you may want to use descriptive vocabulary. Here are some of the terms that you can use in your essay to make it sound more professional:

Tempo is the “speed” of music. There are fixed expressions to define tempo—for example, largo, moderate, or presto. You can also describe how fast the music feels.
Timbre is the term that evaluates the “color” of music. Even if two instruments play the same note of the same volume, the sound is still different. This is how you can notice the color of the tone. For example, gentle, clear, heavy, or warm can be the adjectives to describe timbre.
Dynamics define the volume levels of music. The volume can be the same all the time, for example loud or soft. If the volume of music changes, you can use such expressions as “gradually gets louder” “or suddenly becomes soft.”
Harmony characterizes how all the notes and chords sound together. The sequence of chords—chord progression—defines how satisfying the melody is for the listener. For example, if the transitions are smooth, you can use such words as “relaxed” or “warm.”

Music Essay Outline

Like any other assignment, writing about music requires a proper essay outline that will guide you through the writing. The following sections will help you with that.

Before you start, here are some tips that will help you prepare for writing:

Do some prior research. Try to learn as much as possible about the piece you will be writing about. It’s also helpful to listen to the music several times with headphones to notice more details.
Don’t be afraid of asking questions. Consult your instructor if you’re unsure about your topic or the piece you have chosen.
Choose the topic that you like. If you’re passionate about a subject, it is always easier to write about it. Who said that homework could not be interesting?
Follow the recommendations that your instructor gives. It includes word limit, formatting style, deadline, and essay type.

Music Essay Introduction

The introduction is the section where you come up with a brief explanation of the topic. You may start it with a quotation, definition, or short statement that catches your reader’s attention and leads them to the essay subject.

A thesis statement is usually the last sentence of the introduction that defines the content of body paragraphs. It needs to be specific and not longer than two sentences. If you decide to shift the focus of your essay while writing, it’s crucial to change your thesis too.

Different types of essays require different thesis statements. Let’s take a closer look:

Music Essay Body

Your essay’s body is the most significant part of your writing. Here, you provide evidence and explanations of your claims.

The typical body paragraph structure includes:

A topic sentence explaining the argument for a particular paragraph.
An introduction to the evidence you gathered to support an argument.
Quotes and facts (don’t forget about proper citation!) and their explanation.
A connection between the evidence and the essay topic.
Paragraph transitions  leading your reader to the next section.

Topic Sentence about Music

Topic sentences can be used as a roadmap to writing your essay. Each body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that defines what the paragraph is about. It introduces the argument or main thought that will be explained. It’s also connected with the thesis statement.

It’s essential to make your thesis easy to understand, so it’s better not to overcomplicate it. For example, here’s an unsuccessful topic sentence with unnecessary words:

As stated above, the guitar is an essential musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Instead, you can formulate it like this:

The guitar is the most iconic musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Music Essay Conclusion

When writing a conclusion for your essay on music, you can use the following structure:

Summarize the text in a few sentences.
Review the key points of your paper.
Paraphrase the thesis.

To make your essay conclusion more effective, avoid the following:

📑 What Music Means to Me: Essay Example

Now you know all about writing an essay on music! To make it even easier for you, we’ve prepared an essay sample that you can use for inspiration. Check it out:

Now all you need is to turn the music on and get down to writing! We hope you liked this guide. If you did, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends.

✏️ Music Essay FAQ

Music is a vast topic. An essay might deal with anything ranging from trends in the 1950s to the best guitarists of all time. Writing an introduction to certain music styles or bands is also possible. In any case, the paper should be well-structured, logical, and cohesive.

Writing about music doesn’t necessarily require any specific skills. If you’re not familiar with the theory of music and can’t play musical instruments, you can just write about the music you like. Here are some topic ideas: favorite music band, style, or how you perceive music.

You can interpret music as a topic in various ways. If you are getting a degree in this field, you might want to write something more specific and technical. If your essay aims to merely inform and entertain, write about your favorite music style or band.

If you are writing an essay for school, a good choice would be an expository essay. It doesn’t require any specific knowledge of the music industry. Title suggestions might be: “My perception of music,” “My favorite band,” “How music can change the world.”

What is the Music Industry? Definition and Facts: Study.com
What Music Do You Write To?: Writers & Artists
A Music Review: British Council
Music: UNC Writing Center: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Sound and Sense: Writing about Music: Colorado State University
Music analysis Research Papers: Academia.edu
The Power of Music Therapy: Belmont University
Musicology: Northwestern Bienen School of Music
Musicology: Areas of Study: Indiana State University
Music Facts: Facts.net
Music History from Primary Sources: Library of Congress
Music: Encyclopedia Britannica
A History of Classical Music: Part 1: The List
What Is Jazz: Smithsonian Institution
The 50 Greatest Composers of All Time: Classical Music
Musical Terms and Concepts: SUNY Potsdam
Ethnomusicology: University of Oxford
Music Research Process: Syracuse University
Journal of Popular Music Studies: University of California Press
The History of Pop Music in 5 Defining Decades: The Culture Trip
Music of the 20 th Century: Lumen Learning
Explainer: Indie Music: The Conversation
Your Brain on Music: University of Central Florida
Music and Health: Harvard University
The Psychological Function of Music Listening: NIH
Essays that Worked: Hamilton
Writing in Music: Writing Thesis Statements: The City University of New York
Academic Writing about Music: University of Denver
How to Write Song Lyrics: Berklee
Essay Introduction: University of Maryland
Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements: Purdue University
Writing Body Paragraphs: Monash University
Some Tips for Writing Efficient, Effective Body Paragraphs: University of California, Berkeley
Writing a Paper: Conclusions: Walden University
Share to Facebook
Share to Twitter
Share to LinkedIn
Share to email

549 Excellent Globalization Topics for Writing & Presentations

Not everyone knows it, but globalization is not a brand-new process that started with the advent of the Internet. In fact, it’s been around throughout all of human history. This makes the choice of topics related to globalization practically endless.  If you need help choosing a writing idea, this Custom-Writing.org...

267 Hottest Fashion Topics to Write About in 2024

In today’s world, fashion has become one of the most significant aspects of our lives. It influences everything from clothing and furniture to language and etiquette. It propels the economy, shapes people’s personal tastes, defines individuals and communities, and satisfies all possible desires and needs. In this article, Custom-Writing.org experts...

112 Teenage Pregnancy Essay Topics + Examples

Early motherhood is a very complicated social problem. Even though the number of teenage mothers globally has decreased since 1991, about 12 million teen girls in developing countries give birth every year. If you need to write a paper on the issue of adolescent pregnancy and can’t find a good...

309 Human Rights Research Topics & Essay Ideas

Human rights are moral norms and behavior standards towards all people that are protected by national and international law. They represent fundamental principles on which our society is founded. Human rights are a crucial safeguard for every person in the world. That’s why teachers often assign students to research and...

233 Hottest Global Warming Essay Topics & Research Ideas

Global warming has been a major issue for almost half a century. Today, it remains a topical problem on which the future of humanity depends. Despite a halt between 1998 and 2013, world temperatures continue to rise, and the situation is expected to get worse in the future. When it...

165 Bullying Research Topics: Qualitative & Quantitative

Have you ever witnessed someone face unwanted aggressive behavior from classmates? According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 1 in 5 students says they have experienced bullying at least once in their lifetime. These shocking statistics prove that bullying is a burning topic that deserves detailed research. In this...

120 Recycling Research Topics, Questions, & Essay Ideas

Recycling involves collecting, processing, and reusing materials to manufacture new products. With its help, we can preserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save energy. And did you know that recycling also creates jobs and supports the economy? If you want to delve into this exciting topic in your...

260 Expository Essay Topics for School & College

Expository writing, as the name suggests, involves presenting factual information. It aims to educate readers rather than entertain or persuade them. Examples of expository writing include scholarly articles, textbook pages, news reports, and instructional guides. Therefore, it may seem challenging to students who are used to writing persuasive and argumentative...

444 Informative Essay Topics for College & School

Expository or informative essays are academic papers presenting objective explanations of a specific subject with facts and evidence. These essays prioritize balanced views over personal opinions, aiming to inform readers without imposing the writer’s perspective. Informative essays are widely assigned to students across various academic levels and can cover various...

A List of 181 Hot Cyber Security Topics for Research [2024]

Your computer stores your memories, contacts, and study-related materials. It’s probably one of your most valuable items. But how often do you think about its safety? Cyber security is something that can help you with this. Simply put, it prevents digital attacks so that no one can access your data....

A List of 339 Problem Solution Essay Topics & Questions

A problem solution essay is a type of persuasive essay. It’s a piece of writing that presents a particular problem and provides different options for solving it. It is commonly used for subject exams or IELTS writing tasks. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to write this...

550 Psychiatry & Psychology Research Topics to Investigate in 2024

Have you ever wondered why everyone has a unique set of character traits? What is the connection between brain function and people’s behavior? How do we memorize things or make decisions? These are quite intriguing and puzzling questions, right? A science that will answer them is psychology. It’s a multi-faceted...

Thank you very much for this post on music essay writing! You don’t know how long I looked for the helpful information on writing music essays!

Music takes an important part in my life. I wake up and go to bed listening to music. And now when I’m writing my music essay, I also listen to music. And it’s also a pleasure to read an article on how to write an essay on music!

Mechanics • 14 min read

How Does the Music Industry Work? Introducing the Mechanics: A 10 Part Series (2023 update)

By Soundcharts Team

Published January 1, 2024

Evolution of Artist Career Development

The 1960s - 2000 - promotion carried out by record labels, 2000-2009 - dark days of the industry and emerging diy promotion, 2010-2015 - new digital promotion space, 2015 - … promotion in the age of abundance, how the music industry works in 10 key parts, 1. recording industry, 2. digital music distribution industry, 3. streaming, 4. live and touring industry, 5. licensing and sync, 6. artist management, 7. music publishing industry, 10. audience & fan attention.

Major artists work with dozens of partners as they tour around the world, release singles, videos and albums, make appearances, sell merch and promote their music and shows. Large careers need large teams to maintain them. The teams of developing acts are usually much, much smaller, but someone still has to support all the revenue streams. So working with young artists means juggling dozens of hats, learning how the music industry works on the go, and expanding your expertise to cover all the holes.

The common denominator for these teams is the fuel that drives them. Artists, managers, independent and major labels, publishers, distributors, promoters, agents, agencies and so on – while not wholly aligned, all those people and companies work towards the same goal. Collaboration is what pushed the industry forward over the decades.

At the same time, each music career is unique, and legislation and business practices differ between countries. So, in the end, the music business is both interconnected and fragmented. That makes it difficult to get a complete, coherent picture of the industry – especially for a newcomer.

That is why we’ve decided to try and lift the veil and explain how the music industry actually works.

In the “Mechanics” series, we will share the knowledge we’ve acquired throughout our careers and the things we’ve learned from all the people we’ve met. We will dissect the individual building blocks of the industry, from legal to recording, and try to show what happens behind the scenes. Sometimes we will have to simplify and take shortcuts to explain things. However, we will always try to keep a neutral voice and focus on facts rather than opinions.

But first, to understand where we are we need to find out how we got here. So, in the next part of this article, we will trace the evolution of the music industry, highlighting the main promotion channels and the way they’ve developed over the years.

Pee Wee Russell Clarinet – Ernie Anderson Publicist on Telephone Charles Peterson goes to party (1939)

On the surface, the music industry went through many phases throughout the second half of the 20th century. From the first car tape players in the 60s to the launch of the Sony Walkman and the birth of personalized listening experience in the 80s, technological advancements changed the way listeners experience music. However, while recording formats, genres and generations came and went, the core of the music business remained constant.

The music industry was structured like a straight highway with a few heavily guarded gates along the way. First, artists had to be discovered by labels, which ruled the industry back in the day. Recording companies provided infrastructure, but even more importantly, they had access to the media. Radio and TV were the main promotion channels, and artists needed them to get access to large audiences. Prime-time rotation on a big radio station could bring an overnight success to an artist, propelling them into the life of windfall revenues and nationwide fame. Yet, only a handful of artists enjoyed the benefits of that system, while others were left in the dust.

By the end of the millennium, the tables started to turn. In 1993, the MP3 protocol was invented, allowing to reduce the size of the digital music files up to 95%. MP3 provoked a boom in the digital distribution of music in the early internet era. As Napster (1999) led the way for music piracy and made digital downloads commonplace, the first signs of the future crisis started to show.

Global recorded music revenue from 1999 to 2018, billion U.S. dollars. Source: MIDIA Research

iTunes was launched in 2001, but even with its integration into Apple's ecosystem, it couldn’t compete with the appeal of free, unlimited music. The old industry was collapsing as the physical distribution, and download-to-own services were losing the battle to online piracy. By 2008, by IFPI estimations , 95% of all digital music was downloaded illegally. At the same time, new-era digital platforms like Myspace (2003), Facebook (2004), Youtube (2005) and Soundcloud (2007) emerged. They brought new ways to monitor success, drawing the industry’s attention to play counts and likes. The first artists of the digital era launched their careers in that chaotic environment: Scooter Braun , for example, discovered Justin Bieber by accidentally clicking on one of his YouTube videos.

The digital economy is agile by definition and soon hundreds of companies offered to boost growth by “hacking” the numbers. In those early days, social media didn’t have the tools to implement marketing campaigns. While Facebook was still focused on viral games like Farmville and tagging pictures of families and friends to generate engagement loops, companies like Topspin (2007) filled the gap. They offered new ways for artists to engage with the digital environment as a hub for artist-fan relationships. So, while revenues were plummeting for everyone, new ways to promote artists emerged.

From 2010 to 2015, the market was at an all-time low. Recording industry revenues went below 15$ billions in 2010 and resided at that level for all five years. On a top side though, the market finally defined its answer to digital piracy. Spotify launched in 2008 and hit the US in 2011. From 2010 to 2015 streaming grew 700%, but it was only the beginning – by May 2014, Spotify had reached only a tenth of its current subscriber count.

Justin Bieber went from the local singing competitions to the most searched person on Google in just three years, and that is something that the industry had to take into account. Recognizing the potential of the new environment, by 2010, most labels already had some sort of a digital department. Influenced by online media, tour marketing and release campaigns started to look the way they are now. The first signs of the direct artist-fan interactions started to appear, and several major artists started their careers around these days by relying on that approach.

The digital industry has matured, but the physical world is still as vital as it’s ever been. The industry has adapted to the intertwinement of digital and physical worlds and direct artist-fan interactions: artists now stream live shows on their “socials” and announce albums with a single tweet .

Marketing strategies that were traditionally carried out by labels became every man’s game. Publishers, managers and agents invested in the promotion channels, and the industry is now full of digital thinkers, developing careers in the online environment. There are more ways to promote music than there’s ever been, but, at the same time, there is more music itself.

Artists might have direct access to the promotion channels, but more than 20,000 songs are released every day, and the primary challenge of the artist promotion is cutting through that clatter. Music professionals had to become agile and data-driven, feeling at home navigating through the multi-layered and fragmented industry.

The music industry works through a network of partnerships between companies and individuals on the music creation side (singers, songwriters, and producers), the customer-facing side (streaming platforms, venues and public performance platforms like radio) and the business side, connecting the two (labels, managers, publicists, Performance Rights Organizations, distributors, booking agents and more).

Breaking this structure down in clear terms is exactly the point of our Mechanics project. You see, we often hear the unified term “music industry” thrown around. It can be very deceiving: what may appear to be a single cohesive industry is actually a web of individual parts — sometimes overlapping, other times not. That’s why we’ve decided to give it some structure and dedicate a chapter to each distinct building block we’ve identified. This breakdown is subjective and non-exhaustive, so there are definitely more topics that we could cover. If you have any questions about the industry (specific or otherwise), feel free to reach out to us – it will help us prioritize the future content.

Without further ado, here are the chapters we've focused on:

Record labels suffered the most from piracy in the 2000s. In 15 years, the recording industry went through 3 different realities – from CD to digital piracy to streaming. Labels had to adapt, and the recording business models have changed accordingly. Even today, the recording industry is still facing new challenges – from DIY artist bypassing the labels entirely by working directly with artist aggregators like Soundcloud to the increasing involvement of the artist’s manager in the release promotion.

While the place of the recording industry in the grand scheme of things is changing, labels remain the first thing that comes to mind when people think of the music industry. Most hip-hop fans have heard about Def Jam, EDM fans – of OWSLA and country fans – of Big Machine. Even Universal, Sony and Warner are considered “record labels” by the general population, even though their business model spreads far beyond the scope of a “recording company”, covering all sides of the music business. Take me to the Mechanics of the Recording Industry

+ Bonus: We've build a model, that allowed us to simulate P&L of a recording release cycle. It's not a part of our Mechanics series per se — but it will be insightful to anyone who want to know how the label really makes money. Check out our analysis here .

Technically, distribution is a part of the recording chain. The core role of distributors is simple: deliver the release to the stores and keep the cash flowing back to the artists and/or their labels. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Well, not really. As streaming took over the music industry, the DSPs has become an all-in-one stop for music consumption, monetization, and discovery. The likes of Spotify are not only the platforms for artists to monetize their music but prominent promotion channels. In fact, for 90% of the artists out there the promotional effect of streaming playlists and discovery algorithms is probably more important than the money they get from the streaming services . Accordingly, distributors industry has become increasingly important as the liaisons between the DSPs and the recording industry, expanding their business model far beyond the core administration and aggregation services. Take me to the Mechanics of Distribution

Adoption of streaming is by far the most significant shift in the industry in the last ten years — and that's a shift that is still ongoing. Even today, streaming services are looking for ways to expand their user-base, develop their product, grow the revenues, and find a sustainable long-term business model. The music industry is caught in the middle of that process: streaming has already changed the way the recording industry operates and the way we consume, share and experience music — and that might be just the beginning. Take me to the Mechanics of Streaming

VR is slowly but surely entering the live industry : with start ups like TheWaveVR and NextVR making a case for the new type of live experience, we might see the industry taking a turn for digitalization soon. For now, however, it remains the 99% “physical”, which also means that it’s the least scalable part of the music business.

There is no difference (from the resource standpoint, at least) between distributing a digital recording to a hundred or a million fans. At the same time, the amount of work that goes into organizing an international tour, reaching the same million fans, is enormous, as the industry remains localized and network-based. It is hard to book a venue in Wellington if you're in Berlin, so most booking agents tend to focus on a single market, and even international players still have to rely on the network of local promoters.

Take me to The Mechanics of Touring .

Music has always played an integral role in creative industries like film and video games, while sponsorships deals with musicians are standard practice for brands across all consumer goods sectors, from the Luxury to FMCG. All those connections with external players are managed by the licensing business. Relationships with brands and other mediums are more than just a revenue stream. A fortunate integration can become a major promotional opportunity for the artist – each of us can probably think of a couple of artists, that we’ve discovered in the cinema theater.

Take me to the Mechanics of Licensing and Sync

Managers have unique relationships with artists as they are the only partners, who are always aligned with the artists financially. Instead of focusing on a single subset of the industry, managers work on long-term global strategies and help the artists make critical business decisions. Besides, managers coordinate all of the professionals working on the artist’s career — so they need a broad and in-depth knowledge of the entire industry. Such all-around expertise also means that managers are the best at filling the gaps. Depending on the needs of an artist, managers can replace publishers, dive deep into the record promotion or negotiate live performances. To put it simply, the manager is a jack of all trades and the backbone of any artist's career.

Take me to the Mechanics of Management .

“How do musicians make money?” The answer is not as straightforward as an outsider might think — and publishing is probably the most misunderstood and complex revenue source in the business. A music publisher’s goal is collecting royalty payments on the artist’s rights connected to the actual musical work, and not the recording of it — this is recording industry’s domain.

Already sounds complicated, doesn’t it? Furthermore, royalty payments go through performance rights organizations (aka PROs: ASCAP , BMI , SACEM , and alike), mechanical collections organizations ( the HFA in the US, MCPS in the UK), sub-publishers and publishers before actually reaching authors and composers — this process alone can take up to 2 years. Then, there are statutory writer's/publisher's shares, legislative regulations that differ from country to country, fragmented music rights, and a million other nuances and intricacies.

Bottom line is publishing is often obscure even for the experienced music professionals if they’ve never directly worked with the vertical. The fact that Michael Jackson was the primary rights-holder to The Beatles catalog kinda tells you everything you need to know about this facet of the business.

Take me to the Mechanics of Publishing .

The future place of Radio in the music industry is not that clear. The rise of the streaming services also made it far more challenging for radios to reach their audiences – due to the complexity of copyright laws and legal barriers around FM/AM frequencies, even large corporations like iHeart, Bauer Media and SiriusXM can’t offer the worldwide reach of the streaming giants. However, this local focus is a two-sided coin: while radio can’t compete with streaming on the global scale, it has kept its power as a localized communication channel. Keeping up with the spirit of the time, traditional radio invested heavily into the digital environment. That has opened up new ways for radio to interact with its audience – and, while the radio has lost its status as the primary music discovery medium, it is still a prominent promotional channel and an integral part of the music business.

The Mechanics of Radio are still in the works. Follow us on X to make sure you don't miss it!

Every side of the music business has its own set of commonly accepted rules and regulations, facilitating the relationships between the partners where the law is not explicit. Besides that, local laws, differing from country to country, override those practices if they conflict. At the same time, lawmakers try to develop new solutions to the problems of the digital environment and shed light onto the grey corners of the business. Such initiatives, like the recent article 13 for example, affect the industry as a whole.

As a result, we end up with one of the most globally connected industries, governed by a disconnected system of contracts and legislation. Whether you like it or not, a basic understanding of music law is essential for most music professionals.

The Legal Mechanics of the Music Industry are still in the works. Follow us on X to make sure you don't miss it!

Relationships between the artist and his fan community are a vital resource for an artist’s career development. Fans were always generating awareness and promoting the artists within their social circles. However, as relationships moved from fan-clubs to social networks over the decades, artist-fans interactions became more crucial than ever. Technology has changed the way artists build relationships with the fans as well as the way fans communicate with each other and the general public. In the Web 2.0 world, fans are the media in itself – one that is sometimes far more effective than traditional channels.

The Mechanics of Attention are still in the works. Follow us on X to make sure you don't miss it!

Share this article:

Soundcharts Team

Soundcharts is the leading global Market Intelligence platform for the music industry used by hundreds of music professionals worldwide.

Mechanics of Music Streaming: The 5 Trends Shaping the Streaming Business

March 16, 2022 • 28 min read

January 1, 2024 • 10 min read

Find the Mistakes in the Theory of Predictive Coding

Georg cantor, the man who discovered different infinities, openmind books, scientific anniversaries, evolution of planet earth (ii): global cataclysms, featured author, latest book, the music industry in an age of digital distribution.

In 1999 the global recorded music industry had experienced a period of growth that had lasted for almost a quarter of a century. Approximately one billion records were sold worldwide in 1974, and by the end of the century, the number of records sold was more than three times as high. At the end of the nineties, spirits among record label executives were high and few music industry executives at this time expected that a team of teenage Internet hackers, led by Shawn Fanning (at the time a student at Northeastern University in Boston) would ignite the turbulent process that eventually would undermine the foundations of the industry.

Shawn Fanning created and launched a file sharing service called Napster that allowed users to download and share music without compensating the recognized rights holders. Napster was fairly quickly sued by the music industry establishment and was eventually forced to shut down the service. However, a string of other, increasingly sophisticated services immediately followed suit. Even though the traditional music industry used very aggressive methods, both legal and technical, to stop the explosion of online-piracy services such as Napster, Kazaa, Limewire, Grokster, DC++, and The Pirate Bay, it was to no avail. As soon as one file sharing service was brought to justice and required to cease its operations, new services emerged and took its place. By the end of 2013, the sales of physically distributed recorded music (e.g., cassettes, CD, vinyl) measured in unit sales, were back at the same relatively low levels of the early 1970s.

During the 15 years that has passed since Napster was launched, the music industry has been completely transformed and the model that ruled the industry during most of the past century has been largely abandoned.

This rapid transformation of the music industry is a classic example of how an innovation is able to disrupt an entire industry and make existing industry competencies obsolete. The power and influence of the pre-Internet music industry was largely based on the ability to control physical distribution. Internet makes physical music distribution increasingly irrelevant and the incumbent major music companies have been required to redefine themselves in order to survive. This chapter will examine the impact of the Internet on the music industry and present the state of the music industry in an age of digital distribution.

Three Music Industries

In order to understand the dynamics of the music industry, it is first of all necessary to recognize that the music industry is not one, but a number of different industries that are all closely related but which at the same time are based on different logics and structures. The overall music industry is based on the creation and exploitation of music-based intellectual properties. Composers and songwriters create songs, lyrics, and arrangements that are performed live on stage; recorded and distributed to consumers; or licensed for some other kind of use, for instance sheet music or as background music for other media (advertising, television, etc.). This basic structure has given rise to three core music industries: the recorded music industry—focused on recording and distribution of music to consumers; the music licensing industry—primarily licensing compositions and arrangements to businesses; and live music—focused on producing and promoting live entertainment, such as concerts, tours, etc. There are other companies that sometimes are recognized as members of the music industrial family, such as makers of music instruments, software, stage equipment, music merchandise, etc. However, while these are important industry sectors they are traditionally not considered to be integral parts of the industry’s core.

In the pre-Internet music industry, recorded music was the biggest of the three and the one that generated the most revenues. Most aspiring artists and bands in the traditional music industry dreamed about being able to sign a contract with a record label. A contract meant that the record label bankrolled a professional studio recording and allowed the artist entry into the record labels’ international distribution system, something which otherwise was beyond reach of most unsigned bands. The second music industry sector—music licensing—was much smaller and more mundane than the recorded music industry sector. Music publishers, who were operating in this business, were largely a business-to-business industry without any direct interaction with the audience. Their main responsibility was to ensure that license fees were collected when a song was used in whatever context and that these fees subsequently were fairly distributed among the composers and lyricists. The third music industry sector—live music—generated its revenues from sales of concert tickets. Although live music has a long and proud history, it came to play second fiddle to the recording industry during the twentieth century. Record sales was undoubtedly the most important revenue stream and record labels generally considered concert tours as a way to promote a studio album, and were not really concerned whether the tour was profitable or not. Sometimes the record label even paid tour support , which would enable bands to go on tour and promote the album even though the actual tour was running with a loss.

This music industry structure, including the relationships between the three industries, was developed during the mid-twentieth century and was deeply cemented when the Internet emerged to challenge the entire system. The short-term impact of the Internet on the music industries primarily concerned the distribution of recorded music to consumers. This means that while the recorded music industry was severely affected by the loss of distribution control and rampant online piracy, the other two music industry sectors were initially left more or less unaffected. As a matter of fact, while the recorded music industry has suffered during the past 15 years, the other two industries have gained in strength and prominence. There are several reasons why this shift in balance has happened.

One of the primarily reasons is simply that as one revenue stream is diminishing, the music industry is required to reevaluate its other businesses and try to compensate for the lost revenues from recorded music by increasing revenues from music licensing and live music.

For instance, revenues from music licensing have more than doubled during the past 15 years due to new and more active licensing practices, but also due to the fact that the media industries have changed in a similar way as the music industry. There are now considerably more television channels, radio channels, videogames, Internet websites, and other outlets than only two decades ago, and most of these outlets need music as their primary or secondary content. Music publishers have also in general been more nimble than the record labels to address the demand from new media outlets. A clear example of how music publishers changed their business practices is how they strive to establish themselves as a one-stop shop for musical intellectual properties, where media outlets can clear all their music licenses with a single contract. That may sound like an obvious service, but in the traditional music industry it was not always the case. Rather, there was one legal entity holding the rights to the composition and another legal entity controlling the rights of the recording of the musical work (the master ). Music publishers in the age of digital distribution increasingly control both the master and the composition, which makes the licensing process more efficient. The music licensing industry has during the past 15 years evolved into the most profitable music industry sector and is often also considered as the most innovative and agile sector of the three.

While music licensing is the most profitable music industry sector, live music has developed into the largest music sector. There is a fairly straightforward explanation why live music has experienced a surge during the past 15 years. Live music is simply easier to control than recorded music. A musical band that is in demand can grow their revenues from live music by increasing the number of concerts and raising the ticket prices. Even though the financial crisis of 2007–08 put a dent in the growth of the live music industry, it has nevertheless surpassed the recorded music industry in size. During most of the second half of the previous century, the largest music company was a record company, but after the Internet transformation of the music industry the world’s largest music company is Live Nation, a U.S.-based live music company spun off from Clear Channel in 2005. This is a further marker of the changing power relationships in the music industry. It should be noted, though, that the boundaries between the three industries are not as clear as they were during the pre-Internet era. Music companies, including Live Nation, serve as a general business partner to artists and composers and support their activities regardless of whether they concern live concerts, merchandise, licensing, or distribution and promotion of recorded music to consumers. This means that it is no longer entirely easy to categorize a music company into one of the three industries, but, nevertheless, in the case of Live Nation its revenues are still mainly generated via live concerts, which still makes it relevant to refer to them as primarily a live music company.

This section has presented how the three main music industry sectors have been affected by the introduction of the Internet and how the size, strength, routines, and relationships between the industry sectors have been transformed. The next section will turn its attention specifically to recorded music and examine how new business models for music distribution may be able to lead the recorded music industry on a path toward recovery.

A Growing Digital Music Market

The music industry went to great lengths at the beginning of the century to put a stop to online piracy; however, they were not equally ambitious and innovative in developing new models for legal online distribution. Certainly, there were a few feeble attempts from the major record labels at the time, but the most important criterion in the development of these services seemed to be that they should not in any way threaten the existing revenue streams but should only add additional revenue to the companies. The majors did succeed with one of their goals, which is that the new services should not compete with the existing physical sales. However, unfortunately the services could not compete with anything, especially not with online piracy.

The first company that was able to create a successful online service for legal sales and distribution of music was not a music industry player at all—it was Apple Computer (as it was called at the time). In 2003, Apple was able to convince the major labels that music consumers would buy music legally if they were offered an extremely simple service that allowed them to buy and download music for less than a dollar per track. The service was called iTunes Music Store. In one sense,

iTunes was a radical change for the music industry. It was the first online retailer that was able to offer the music catalogs from all the major music companies, it used an entirely novel pricing model, and it allowed consumers to de-bundle the music album and only buy the tracks that they actually liked.

On the other hand, iTunes can also be considered as a very careful and incremental innovation, as the major labels’ positions and power structures remained largely unscathed. The rights holders still controlled their properties and the structures that guided the royalties paid per every track that was sold was predictable and transparent. Apple were correct in their prediction of consumer behavior and the iTunes Music Store can not be considered as anything but an enormous success. In 2013, iTunes Music Store is the world’s largest music retailer (offline and online) and it has sold more than 25 billion songs since its launch in 2003. The service has evolved substantially during its decade-long existence, and a number of competitors using more or less the same business model have entered the digital download music market. Even though the competition has increased, iTunes remains on top with a market share of more than 50 percent of the global digital music market. Figure 1 indicates how the global recorded music market has evolved since 1973, and shows that while the digital music market has been able to partially compensate for the decline of physical sales, the total recorded music market still has lost more than 50 percent of its sales since the peak in 1999.

Recorded Music Volume, 1973–2012. Note: Digital includes full-length albums and singles split by 4. Vinyl includes LPs and EPs split by 4. Music DVDs are not included. Source: IFPI 2013

BBVA-OpenMind-Change-Wikstrom-Figura1-Recorded Music Volume, 1973–2012. Note: Digital includes full-length albums and singles split by 4. Vinyl includes LPs and EPs split by 4. Music DVDs are not included. Source: IFPI 2013

While digital download services, such as iTunes Music Store, introduce a gradual change to the music business logic, there are other legal music services that are far more radical and thereby also far more controversial. These services do not offer individual tracks for purchase at a set price—they rather offer the users access to a large music library that they are able to listen to at their leisure. The users normally pay a monthly subscription fee that allows them to listen to as many songs in the library as they want, how often as they want.

This may sound like an appealing proposition, but these legal access-based music services have struggled both to convince record labels to license their catalogs to the services as well as to convince users that it is possible to enjoy music without actually buying and owning a copy of the track or album.

There is a considerable entrepreneurial activity in this segment of the music business, and services go live and bust on a weekly basis. Many service providers are still desperately looking for the business model that can attract music listeners and satisfy rights holders. The challenges are certainly considerable but the music service that so far has received the most attention of the international music industry and the one that could possibly have found the right path is a service called Spotify. Spotify is a useful vehicle for explaining the logic of the music industry in the age of digital distribution, and this section will present how service drives the music industrial transformation forward. Even if it eventually turns out that Spotify is unable to create a business model that is sustainable in the long term, it has already been able to transform the mindsets of both users and rights holders and will most likely be a music technological milestone on the magnitude of the Walkman, the Compact Disc, and Apple iTunes.

The Emergence of Access-Based Music Services

Spotify was founded in 2006 by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon with the ambition to create a legal ad-supported music service that was free for the music listener but that generated licensing revenues to copyright holders.

Spotify was by no means the first attempt to create a legal service that could compete with illegal file sharing. Most predecessors had for various reasons failed miserably with their projects, which may be one reasonable explanation why the rights holders that Spotify was negotiating with were not particularly enthusiastic about engaging in another risky online music project. Despite all their initial skepticism, on October 7, 2008, the company announced that after two years of discussions and negotiations, they had signed agreements with the music industry’s leading rights holders to distribute their music to audiences in a handful of European countries. In order to succeed where many others had failed, Spotify had been forced to make a number of concessions. In addition to offering the major rights holders shares in the company, they were also required to implement a fundamental change in their business model. Instead of offering a service that was solely funded by ads, they also developed a more advanced version of the service, which was funded by subscription fees.

Spotify’s model with two or more different service versions where the most basic version is free and the more advanced versions are offered on a subscription basis is usually called freemium —a play on the words free and premium . Often, the profit margin for the free version is very low, or even negative, and it is expected that it is the subscription fees that will generate enough revenues to make the service profitable. The logic behind a freemium service model is that users shall be willing to use the service for free and that they while using the service gradually will make behavioral and emotional investments in the service that will increase the costs and efforts to switch to another service. The goal is to make as many of the users of the free version to convert to the subscription version. In order to achieve that goal, the free version has to have a number of increasingly annoying features (such as advertising) or lack a few key features (such as the ability to use the service on certain devices) that are removed/available on the premium versions of the service. The challenge for Spotify and other freemium services is to balance the different versions in a way that stimulates the right customer behavior and entices users to become paying subscribers. To date, few music services manage this feat. Either the free version has been too good to motivate customers to upgrade their service or it has been too deprived of features to attract customers at all. In Spotify’s case they have achieved a conversion rate of approximately 20 percent, which means that 20 percent of the total user base is using the premium version and pay a monthly subscription fee.

Spotify has received a considerable amount of attention from the music industry across the world, but some of this attention has been largely based on suspicion and criticism toward their business model and methods. The criticism has to some extent focused on whether the freemium model presented above is long-term sustainable or not, but even stronger criticism has been focused on how the revenues have been shared with rights holders on different levels in the value chain. There are at least two reasons why this criticism has emerged. First of all, music companies have since decades back been used to a royalty model where a licensee pays a fixed amount per song sold, played, or used in whatever way. That model is very difficult to apply to an access-based service since the revenues that are generated by the service is not based on songs sold, played, or used, but based on the number of users of the service. Providers of access-based music services—regardless if the services are funded by subscriptions or advertising—have argued that rather than paying a fixed amount per track that is listened to, they should simply share whatever revenues are generated with the rights holders. Without getting too deep into the accounting detail, such a scheme is very beneficial to the service provider but transfer a considerable part of the business risk to rights holders.

Rights holders argue that their revenues should not depend on the skills of the service’s advertising sales team, but they should simply get paid for the music distributed to customers. In the past, a number of access-based service providers have been required to sign contracts that have generated fixed royalties per track to rights holders. However, such agreements make it very difficult to get an access-based music service off the ground, and several pioneers in the access-based music service market have not been able to survive for very long. One of the reasons why Spotify is considered as a milestone in the shaping of the new music economy is that the company seems to have successfully convinced the major music companies in certain markets that they should indeed share Spotify’s business risk and instead of taking a fixed license fee per track, they should take a share of Spotify’s revenue, regardless of how high or low it is. Spotify succeeded by making a number of concessions in their negotiations, for instance by offering the major music companies the opportunity to buy a minority share of Spotify’s shares.

Spotify has reported that 70 percent of their revenues from ads and subscriptions has been paid in royalties to rights holders. At the end of 2013, the company has generated more than a billion dollars for rights holders around the world, which according to Spotify is proof that their model does work.

However, even though it seems possible to generate revenues from access-based music services, the new contract structure is a radical change in the music business attitude toward distributors, and it is by no means uncontroversial. Some of the criticisms expressed by artists and composers are caused by the fact that the royalties are primarily paid by the service providers to music companies and not directly to the composers, musicians, or artists. The creatives argue that they are not given a fair share of the revenues and some of them even actively choose not to license their music to the services such as Spotify because the revenues that end up in their pockets is almost ridiculously low and that they do not want to support a corrupt and unsustainable system.

One reason why this problem has occurred is a debate about the classification of the royalties generated by access-based music services. Music companies (i.e., in this case the old record companies) claim that the royalties shall be considered as unit-based music sales, which in that case would mean that the musicians receive between 10 and 20 percent of the royalties paid by Spotify to the music companies. The musicians claim on the other hand that Spotify cannot be compared to traditional record sales at all but should rather be categorized as a performance, which in that case would mean that the musicians are entitled to 50 percent of the revenues rather than 20. The conflict concerns to a great extent the interpretation of agreements between record companies and artists that were established before Spotify and even the Internet existed. The debate about what type of royalty a particular Internet-based music service should generate may seem like a legal issue with minor real-world implication, but it is an absolutely crucial question that will determine the structure of the future of the music industry. Much is at stake and it is unlikely that the music industry players will easily agree on a model that is perceived as fair to all parties.

This section has discussed the emergence of access-based music services and the challenges they have encountered as they try to enter the digital music economy. The next section takes this discussion one step forward by reflecting on how these services change the audiences’ relationships with music. The section argues that access-based music is merely a transitional phase in the evolution of a new music economy and points at indications of how the industry increases its reliance on so-called context-based features and services.

The Real-Time Listening Experience

While revenues from recorded music have fallen dramatically during the past 15 years, people across the world do not listen less to music—rather they listen to more recorded music than ever before.

Recorded music permeates every aspect of our daily lives and legal access-based music services combined with illegal online file sharing services means that more or less every song is available everywhere, all the time. This access explosion transforms the way people use and relate to recorded music.

For instance, in the pre-Internet days recorded music was expensive and scarce. Music listeners chose what record to buy with care and the growing record collection in their living room cabinets served as a diary of their lives told via a number of record purchases. Music listeners owned their physical records in the same way as they had a strong sense of ownership about other physical objects, such as books, souvenirs, or furniture, and these objects served as tools for both identity formation and communication.

Institutions, such as collection and ownership , become increasingly irrelevant in the age of digital distribution and ubiquitous access to music. In the light of this observation, a relevant question is what the new role of recorded music as an identity marker in the age of digital distribution may be. The retrospective record collection served as such an identity marker in the pre-Internet age, but as music listeners abandon their physical collections they are required to search for new ways to use recorded music as a tool for communication of their identities to their friends and the world. The scenes that are increasingly used for that purpose are online-based social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, etc. Access-based music services are commonly interconnected with such social network services, and thereby allow music listeners to constantly announce to the world what track they are currently listening to. This stream of information is primarily of interest to advertising platforms and their clients since it allows them to profile the audience based on their listening habits and send them advertising messages that are adapted to their demographics and interests.

The shift from the retrospective collection to the real-time listening experience is a radical shift in music listeners’ relationship to music. It diminishes the significance of the memory of past music experiences and moves the focus to the here and the now. It is interesting to note the kind of structures and behaviors that emerge as music consumption shifts from ownership to access and from the collection to the now playing . Amaral et al. (2009) have, for instance, shown that music listeners actively curate their music-listening feed in order to make sure that it does not reveal a track that does not fit with the image they want to exhibit. Some access-based music services have even created a “private-listening feature” in order to enable users to listen to music without sharing the experience with the world.

The access-based services are still in their early days and they still actively search for the optimal service and pricing structure that will allow them to compete and survive. Currently, the competition between the services is largely based on the size of their music catalogs, availability in different territories and different mobile platforms, etc. However, it is reasonable to assume that eventually all these services will asymptotically converge toward a similar music offering and will be available on all platforms and include more or less every song that has ever been recorded. According to basic economic theory, the competition between similar services or products will be based on price, profit margins will eventually shrink, and a few large players will eventually survive and compete in an oligopolistic market. Access-based music services will in other words become a commodity market and behave in a similar way as the markets for sugar or oil.

When the market has reached this gloomy state and the room for innovation and differentiation based on the pure access model is more or less exhausted, online music service providers will most likely look for other ways to differentiate their services and to keep up their profitability. One way of doing this is to go beyond the pure access model and to create services and features that provide a context to the songs in their catalog. The context may for instance enable music listeners a way to search and easily find the song they are looking for at a particular moment, it may allow users to share their music experiences with their friends, to organize their favorite music experiences in convenient ways, etc. Such context-based services provide a less deterministic and far more expansive space for innovation than those services that are based on a pure access model. While innovation within the access-model framework leads toward the same ultimate goal (universal access to all songs ever recorded), innovation within the context-model framework lacks such a knowable outcome. A provider of a context-based music service has a greater possibility to create a competitive advantage based on unique, innovative features than what is possible within the access-model framework.

Today the number of context-based services grows alongside access-based music services and most often a music service offers both access to music as well as a range of features that allow users to do things with music. The customer problem that needs to be solved is not that the customer needs access to music but rather how to navigate and do things with that music. In other words, customer value is increasingly created by providing the audience with tools that allow them to do things with music rather than by providing the audience with basic access to music. This shift from providing access to music to providing services and features that are based on the assumption that access to music is already provided is part of a similar general transformation of the music industry. The discussion has up until now been focused on the distribution of music, but the shift from content to context can be also observed in other segments of the music industry value chain.

A number of artists and composers have during recent years implemented the context-focused model in the creative production of their musical works. Rather than only making polished recordings for the audience to experience and enjoy, they have created services and practices that involve the audience in the creative process and allow the fans to do things with music. The British singer-songwriter Imogen Heap is one example of this trend. Heap actively encouraged her fans to upload sounds, images, and videos during the production of her latest album. She used this material in her work both as inspiration and as actual building blocks to her songs. As a consequence, Heap’s fans felt they were collaborating with their idol and were part of a communal, creative experience. Billy Bragg is also a singer-songwriter from Britain, but from a different generation and in a different genre than Heap. Bragg has also established a context-oriented experience for his fans, albeit perhaps primarily driven by his fans than by Bragg himself. Bragg reflects on his relationship with his fans and explains that he provides a “social framework” for his fans and that some of his fans don’t even like his music but they enjoy being part of a social community (Baym 2012).

Other musical artists and producers go way beyond the traditional format of the song and create mobile applications that allow the users to play with music in different ways. London-based RjDj and San Francisco-based Smule are two examples of organizations that have developed such applications that challenge the boundaries between music and interactive videogames. These tendencies raise fundamental questions about the definitions of the music industry and music organizations. Will tools and software for playing with music become recognized as a vital part of the music industry and a fourth core sector of the industry, next to live music, music licensing. and recorded music? If so, what will this mean for established music companies, artists, and composers? When live music and music publishing became increasingly important industry sectors in the first years of this millennium, traditional record labels reinvented themselves, built new capabilities that allowed them to serve as record labels, music publishers, management companies, live music companies, etc. They turned into 360-degree music companies , which placed equal emphasis on all three music industry segments. If context-based services and software will continue to grow in importance, music companies will need to add yet another new competency and perhaps new business areas to their organizations that will enable them to capture the increasing value created by context-based music services.

The Music Industrial Transformation Continues

The recorded music industry has been radically transformed during the past 15 years, but much remains before the industry takes the definitive step and leaves the physical world behind. This chapter has discussed some aspects of how this transformation continues, and how access-based music services play a substantial role in this process. The chapter has also touched upon how the recorded music becomes increasingly marginalized as a revenue source and how other industry segments such as live music and music licensing become increasingly significant. Finally, it has also presented how the audiences’ relationships with music change as a part of this transformation and how services and features that allow users to play with music rather than merely to play music move into center stage of the music industry in the digital age.

Amaral, Adriana, Simone Pereira de Sá, and Marjorie Kibby. “Friendship, Recommendation and Consumption on a Music-Based Social Network Site.” Presented at the AOIR Conference, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 2009.

Baym, Nancy K. “Friends or Fans?: Seeing Social Media Audiences as Musicians Do.” Participations 9, no. 2 (2012): 286–316.

Wikström, Patrik. The Music Industry: Music in the Cloud . 2nd ed. Cambridge, UK: Polity Press, 2013.

Related publications

The Internet's Influence on the Production and Consumption of Culture: Creative Destruction and New Opportunities
First the Media, Then Us: How the Internet Changed the Fundamental Nature of the Communication and Its Relationship with the Audience
Eric Clarke: Neuroscience, Anthropology and Sociology to Understand Music

Download Kindle

Download epub, download pdf, more publications related to this article, more about humanities, communications, comments on this publication.

Morbi facilisis elit non mi lacinia lacinia. Nunc eleifend aliquet ipsum, nec blandit augue tincidunt nec. Donec scelerisque feugiat lectus nec congue. Quisque tristique tortor vitae turpis euismod, vitae aliquam dolor pretium. Donec luctus posuere ex sit amet scelerisque. Etiam sed neque magna. Mauris non scelerisque lectus. Ut rutrum ex porta, tristique mi vitae, volutpat urna.

Sed in semper tellus, eu efficitur ante. Quisque felis orci, fermentum quis arcu nec, elementum malesuada magna. Nulla vitae finibus ipsum. Aenean vel sapien a magna faucibus tristique ac et ligula. Sed auctor orci metus, vitae egestas libero lacinia quis. Nulla lacus sapien, efficitur mollis nisi tempor, gravida tincidunt sapien. In massa dui, varius vitae iaculis a, dignissim non felis. Ut sagittis pulvinar nisi, at tincidunt metus venenatis a. Ut aliquam scelerisque interdum. Mauris iaculis purus in nulla consequat, sed fermentum sapien condimentum. Aliquam rutrum erat lectus, nec placerat nisl mollis id. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Nam nisl nisi, efficitur et sem in, molestie vulputate libero. Quisque quis mattis lorem. Nunc quis convallis diam, id tincidunt risus. Donec nisl odio, convallis vel porttitor sit amet, lobortis a ante. Cras dapibus porta nulla, at laoreet quam euismod vitae. Fusce sollicitudin massa magna, eu dignissim magna cursus id. Quisque vel nisl tempus, lobortis nisl a, ornare lacus. Donec ac interdum massa. Curabitur id diam luctus, mollis augue vel, interdum risus. Nam vitae tortor erat. Proin quis tincidunt lorem.

Games and the Internet: Fertile Ground for Cultural Change

Do you want to stay up to date with our new publications.

Receive the OpenMind newsletter with all the latest contents published on our website

OpenMind Books

The Search for Alternatives to Fossil Fuels
View all books

About OpenMind

Connect with us.

Keep up to date with our newsletter

Quote this content

Think you can get into a top-10 school? Take our chance-me calculator... if you dare. 🔥

Last updated March 22, 2024

Every piece we write is researched and vetted by a former admissions officer. Read about our mission to pull back the admissions curtain.

Blog > Essay Advice , Personal Statement > How to Write a Great College Essay About Music (with examples)

How to Write a Great College Essay About Music (with examples)

Admissions officer reviewed by Ben Bousquet, M.Ed Former Vanderbilt University

Written by Alex McNeil, MA Admissions Consultant

Key Takeaway

Ask any admissions officer if they’ve read a college essay about music, and they’ll definitely say yes. Between music extracurriculars and academic interests in music, it’s is one of the most common college essay topics.

So does that mean that you shouldn’t write your college essay about music?

Not necessarily. But as with any common college essay topic, some approaches are better than others.

Let’s get into it.

Why you should (and shouldn’t) write your Common App essay about music

As we explained in our Stanford Items exercise , writing your college essay on a common topic isn’t off-limits. In fact, most college essays share common topics and themes. Trying to find a completely unique, never-been-done-before topic is almost impossible. And writing about a quirky topic in hopes of coming across as unique usually backfires.

In other words, it’s likely that you’ll write about the same topic as someone else.

The problem arises, however, when you write about a common topic in a cliche way . Cliches are always a danger in college essays, but in especially college essay topics that tend to surface again and again.

To avoid cliches, your college essay about music needs to be deeply personal, specific, and meaningful. You’ll want to let go of any over-generalizations or truisms and focus on the details of your own story.

Because you’ll need to write meaningfully and vulnerably, you should only write your college essay about music if you have something genuine and significant to say.

The Best Ways to Approach Your College Essay about Music

College essays about music aren’t off the table, but you should be thoughtful in how you write about them. The following two approaches will help you avoid cliches and find an authentic, meaningful story that fulfills all the requirements of a personal statement .

Writing about music as an academic interest

If you’re interested in studying music in college, then you can consider writing your college essay about music as an academic interest. A college essay about your academic interest in music can show fantastic intellectual fit with a school.

Let’s say you want to study music theory or composition. You might write about a topic you find compelling, a problem you’ve solved, or even a recounting of your journey becoming interested in the subject.

Or maybe you’re an aspiring performer planning on studying music performance. As an admissions officer, I read outstanding essays about students performing their favorite pieces, creating emotional music projects, and teaching lessons to young children.

No matter your topic, your goal with this approach is to show an intellectual spark, a curiosity and passion that will demonstrate to your admissions officers that you’ll be a great addition to the music community on their campuses.

Writing poignantly about a deeply meaningful extracurricular

The previous approach is great if you want to study music, but what if music is just an extracurricular passion of yours? Don’t worry—you can still write about it.

In that case, the best way is to focus on meaning. Remember: personal statements should be deeply-meaningful reflections on your personal strengths.

To start, reflect on your music extracurricular. Is it playing guitar in a band? Playing trombone in your school’s symphony? Learning piano from your grandma? How your love of poetry turned into a love of songwriting?

Next, think about what strengths you have to showcase. If you play guitar in a band, maybe you want to highlight your collaborative spirit. If you love poetry and songwriting, perhaps you focus on your creativity.

Writing about your love of music in a way that draws upon your strengths will make sure that your Common App essay avoids the following two approaches and gives admissions officers a reason to admit you.

Approaches to Avoid

While the following two approaches aren’t necessarily bad, they are the most cliche ways of approaching a college essay about music. You might want to consider avoiding them.

An inauthentic tale of triumph

Let me tell you a cliche story.

When I was in fourth grade, I decided to join the school orchestra. I found it exceedingly difficult at first. No matter how hard I tried, I never could seem to place my fingers correctly on the fingerboard. Every sound I made mimicked a screeching cat. But I decided not to give up. I practiced every day after school and on the weekends. By the time I was in ninth grade, I had made it into my high school’s top orchestra.

Is that a lovely story? Yes, absolutely. Is it hearty enough for a college essay? No. While it tells a good narrative of growth and progress, it remains on the surface of the writer’s life. It comes across as a convenient way to brag about your strengths instead of exploring them in a genuine way. In this example, the story also focuses on events that happened way too far in the past.

A song that changed your life

This approach is by far the most common cliche in college essays about music. We’ve all been there: a favorite song that transports you to a moment in your life whenever you hear it. It makes sense that you’d want to write about yours.

But there’s a problem with this approach. Too often, it reads as trite or unoriginal, and the end result usually doesn’t say much about the writer. And when it does, the message an admissions officer gets doesn’t typically give them any more reason to admit you. Since you want your college essay to be meaningful, even vulnerable, and strengths-based, you’re better off choosing another topic that better speaks to who you are.

Key Takeaways + Examples

College essays about music aren’t for everyone. But when you get it right, you can strike the perfect chord with admissions officers (you’re welcome for the pun).

As you go, dig deep, find something genuinely personal, and try to avoid the most common and cliche ways of approaching the topic.

Want to see some examples of college essays about music before you get started? Check out our examples, The Time Machine and The Band .

Liked that? Try this next.

The Incredible Power of a Cohesive College Application

How to Write a College Essay (Exercises + Examples)

20 College Essay Examples (Graded by Former Admissions Officers)

How A Selective Admissions Office Reads 50k Applications In A Season

"the only actually useful chance calculator i’ve seen—plus a crash course on the application review process.".

Irena Smith, Former Stanford Admissions Officer

We built the best admissions chancer in the world . How is it the best? It draws from our experience in top-10 admissions offices to show you how selective admissions actually works.

Presentations made painless

Get Premium

111 Music Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect people from all walks of life. Whether you are a music student looking for essay topics, or simply someone who is passionate about music and wants to explore different aspects of it, we have compiled a list of 111 music essay topic ideas and examples to help you get started.

The evolution of hip hop music in American culture
The impact of technology on the music industry
The influence of classical music on modern compositions
The role of music in shaping identity and cultural heritage
The psychology of music and its effects on the brain
The power of protest music in social movements
The significance of music festivals in contemporary society
The role of music therapy in mental health treatment
The representation of gender and sexuality in popular music
The history and impact of rock and roll music
The intersection of music and fashion in pop culture
The globalization of music and its implications on cultural exchange
The role of music education in fostering creativity and critical thinking
The impact of social media on music promotion and distribution
The relationship between music and politics in the 21st century
The evolution of music genres over the decades
The influence of African music on Western popular music
The role of music in film and television soundtracks
The impact of streaming services on the music industry
The representation of race and ethnicity in music videos
The role of music in religious and spiritual practices
The history of music censorship and its implications on freedom of expression
The impact of music on memory and cognitive function
The representation of mental health issues in music lyrics
The role of music in promoting social justice and equality
The impact of music on consumer behavior and marketing strategies
The influence of technology on music production and composition
The relationship between music and dance in different cultures
The impact of music on emotions and mood regulation
The significance of live music performances in the digital age
The role of music in creating a sense of community and belonging
The representation of gender stereotypes in music lyrics
The influence of music on language development and communication skills
The impact of music on physical health and well-being
The role of music in expressing and processing emotions
The portrayal of love and relationships in music lyrics
The influence of music on fashion trends and style
The impact of music on social behavior and interpersonal relationships
The significance of music in rituals and ceremonies
The role of music in shaping national identity and patriotism
The representation of violence and conflict in music lyrics
The influence of music on memory and learning abilities
The impact of music on mood regulation and stress management
The role of music in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability
The portrayal of social issues and injustices in music lyrics
The influence of music on political activism and social movements
The significance of music in cultural celebrations and traditions
The role of music in fostering empathy and compassion
The representation of mental health struggles in music lyrics
The influence of music on consumer behavior and purchasing decisions
The role of music in promoting diversity and inclusivity
The portrayal of love and relationships in music videos
The impact of music on cognitive development and problem-solving skills
The significance of music in personal growth and self-discovery
The role of music in promoting peace and reconciliation
The representation of gender roles and stereotypes in music videos
The influence of music on memory retention and recall
The impact of music on emotional intelligence and social skills
The role of music in promoting cultural exchange and understanding
The portrayal of mental health issues in music videos
The influence of music on physical coordination and motor skills
The significance of music in spiritual practices and rituals
The role of music in fostering creativity and innovation
The representation of social injustices and inequalities in music lyrics
The impact of music on mood regulation and emotional well-being
The influence of music on decision-making and problem-solving abilities
The role of music in promoting social cohesion and unity
The portrayal of addiction and substance abuse in music videos
The significance of music in fostering empathy and compassion
The role of music in promoting mental health and well-being
The impact of music on physical health and stress management
The representation of social issues and injustices in music videos
The significance of music in fostering creativity and innovation
The portrayal of mental health struggles in music lyrics
The impact of music on memory retention and recall

These are just a few examples of the countless music essay topics that you can explore. Whether you are interested in the history of music, its cultural significance, its impact on society, or its psychological effects, there is a wide range of topics to choose from. So pick a topic that resonates with you, conduct thorough research, and let your passion for music shine through in your writing. Happy writing!

Want to create a presentation now?

Instantly Create A Deck

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Hassle Free

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

Search NYU Steinhardt

How to Apply MA, Music Business

This master of arts program combines the unparalleled artistic resources of New York City with cross-disciplinary course work – you will take business courses at the NYU Stern School of Business. Study with industry leaders and learn the necessary skills to become a leader in today’s global music marketplace. A concentration in Music Technology is also available, which will develop your knowledge of audio for games and other interactive applications, sound design in digital music, and other emerging platforms.

Official Degree Title

Application Deadline

Subplan Code

(Music Technology)

Admissions Information

Program Information

Admissions Requirements

Prerequisites include taking a course in statistics or quantitative methods prior to enrollment. You may choose to fulfill this requirement while in the program, graduating with 45 credits instead of 42.

Admission to this program is very competitive, and your application must be completed and received by the appropriate deadline.

How to Apply

These instructions and requirements are for all applicants. If you are not a citizen or a permanent resident of the United States, please read the special instructions for international applicants .

Your application will require the following items. The following are acceptable document types for uploads: .pdf, .jpeg, .jpg, .gif, .tiff, .png, .doc, .docx, and bitmap.

1. Prepare Your Application

You are required to upload a copy of your most recent résumé or curriculum vitae as part of your application.

Music Business Essay

This requirement is for Fall 2024 applicants. New requirements and the essay topic will change for future semesters. The new requirements are typically posted at the end of August, so please be sure to check back if you plan to apply for a future semester.

Write a topical 800-word essay (not including bibliography) based on the prompt below. It should be double-spaced and cite all sources used in a bibliography.

It is estimated that 100,000 new songs are added to music streaming platforms every single day. In this kind of market and environment, music discovery is a growing challenge for all music business stakeholders. Different kinds of consumers have many options for music discovery, from long-standing sources such as radio and YouTube, to the popular playlists of the big streaming platforms, to viral hits on TikTok. Other avenues for music discovery include film, TV and game soundtracks, social media coverage of major festivals and tours, and blogs and print publications, among others. Drawing on your own preferred methods for discovering new music, research and write an essay outlining the pros and cons of at least two music discovery avenues of your choice, and explore the implications of differentiating between discovering a new song versus a new artist.

Personal Data Outline

Please provide this data in a narrative form, single-spaced, not to exceed 4 pages total.

A. Professional Overview: What are your goals in this field? Other than studying at NYU, outline at least three steps you plan to take to reach those goals. Why do you wish to study in this field at the graduate level?

B. Self-Appraisal: What major assets do you present to support your selection for training in this program? What are your present weaknesses and limitations? In what ways do you think NYU may help you? What other steps have you taken or do you plan to take to improve yourself academically, vocationally, personally, or otherwise?

C. Research Ideas: Cite several current business topics related to the present state of any sector(s) of the music industry. Select one topic and suggest how you would research it on the graduate level.

D. For the concentration in Music Technology, please include the following:

A description of your academic and/or professional experience in music and business/database technology
A list of the music and business and database technology tools you are familiar with, both hardware and software, and links to samples of your work if available
How this concentration will further your career goals

Letters of Recommendation

Submit two letters of recommendation. Be sure to request them well in advance of the deadline. Read detailed instructions .

These letters should attest to your strengths, weaknesses, potential to succeed in a rigorous academic program, and potential for management.

Transcripts

Upload one official copy of transcripts from every postsecondary school you have attended or are attending. Make sure to request them in advance of the deadline.

If you completed or are completing a degree at an institution outside of the US or Canada, you are required to provide a WES or ECE evaluation. Please review our requirements for translation and a course-by-course evaluation of your transcripts.

See detailed instructions on submitting transcripts .

Not required.

Proficiency in English

See testing requirements .

Application

Start your application now

After you fill in and upload the required information, you can submit your completed application. Your application must be completed, dated, electronically signed, and submitted by 11:59 p.m. EST of the stated deadline.

Application Fee

You will be prompted to pay a $75 application fee, payable by major credit card only. After submitting your payment, you will see your application status change from “saved” to “submitted.” Please print this screen for your records, as it confirms that your application has been successfully sent to our school. If you have problems submitting your payment, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions. Learn more about our fee waiver policy .

Mailing Additional Items

If any application materials need to be mailed to our office, mail the materials to NYU Steinhardt, Office of Graduate Admissions, 82 Washington Square East, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10003-6680. Please do not mail your materials in binders or folders. Any mailed materials must be received by, not postmarked by, the stated deadline . Only completed applications will be considered and reviewed by the Admissions Committee. Due to high volume, we are unable to confirm receipt of mailed materials.

Application Policies

Application deadlines are "in-office" deadlines, not postmark deadlines. It is your responsibility to ensure that all materials are in the Office of Graduate Admissions by the appropriate deadline, and we reserve the right to return any application that arrives after the deadline. Only completed applications will be considered. Should a deadline fall on a weekend, the in-office deadline will be the next business day. We advise you to apply early.

Please check the online system to confirm that you have successfully submitted your application. Due to the volume of applications and related materials received, the Office of Graduate Admissions will only contact you if your application was successfully submitted and is deemed incomplete because of missing required materials. Otherwise, you will hear from us when the admissions committee has made its decision.

Deferral policy: NYU Steinhardt does not allow deferrals. Applicants who wish to be considered for a future semester must reapply by submitting a new application with all supporting materials, including letters of recommendation, by the application deadline.

3. Receive Your Admission Decision

You will be notified about your decision by email. Typically, decisions will start going out in late November for Spring semester enrollment and in late March or early April for Summer or Fall enrollment. You may learn of your decision before or after this timeline.

Music business essay

Published: October 1, 2022
Updated: October 1, 2022
Language: English
Downloads: 23

The music publishing industry at a glance would seem to be those who print sheet music, method books, lead sheets, and all of the texts or notated music that musicians (and those aspiring to be musicians) use. Years ago, this was what most music publishers did, but as the industry has evolved the process that become much more complex. Music is not just ink and paper, intellectual material and property to the individual who writes it. Therefore the song does not become a song when it is written down. This is not an easy concept to grasp because the song by itself has no physical makeup. A song could exist once it is played for the first time, and songs can even exist inside the mind of a songwriter. This concept is why the publishing business can be so complex; we are dealing with intellectual property.

The heart of the music publishing business lies in the rights to the original music. After the music is successful enough to financially support itself the music is printed in mass quantities in a variety of ways. This could be everything from guitar tabs to choral arrangements for a junior high choir. The publishers main source of income is through record royalties, performance royalties received from companies like the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI), and the Society of European Stage Authors and Composers (SESAC) for performances of music copyrighted by the publisher. These royalties could be from many different types of performances but most are though radio and songs on television. The success of a songwriter lies in the greatly in the hands of his/her publisher. Normally we hear of a bands success when they are signed with a record deal, but most record companies not only produce and promote an album, they also act as the publisher who, when contracted, owns the rights to the music. When a publisher own the song it is put in to their catalog. Merchandise retailers have catalogs of their goods just like publishers have a catalog of songs that they own rights to. Publishing firms such as Warner/Chappell, BMG Music, MCA Music, and Sony music have catalogs of many styles of music. These companies are referred to as full-line companies. A broad repertoire allows them to market their music to many audiences. Most of these full-line companys roots can be traced back to the music of Hollywood and the show music of Broadway. Publishers today may have thousands of songwriters in its catalog including all styles of music from around the globe. Representative Warner/Chappell owns, administers, or sub-publishes more that a million copyrights here and abroad.

Todays full-line publishers have many different divisions to their company. Large publishers handle virtually every aspect of a writers music, its recordings, distribution, sales, promotion, advertising, touring, and legal affairs. This figure lays out all the divisions a full-line publisher may have.

The administration division is the division that handles the operations of the firm. All business affairs go through administration. When money is received from or paid to customers the firm the accounting divisions keeps all the financial records of these kinds of operations. The accounting division also would handle loans given to artist that are signed to the firm under the publishers record label. When a band records an album under a label they become a liability to the label because money has to be spent to record, produce and promote a artists music. Full-line publishers front this money and all profits from the artist come back and are split 50-50 with the publisher and the writer. If the artist maintains the rights to their songs the record contract will include a controlled composition clause that calls for a reduced mechanical royalty paid to the artist by the record label. This clause may reduce the royalty split to 75-25, the larger portion going to the record label. This clause would not be insisted to artists who place the full rights to works in the hands of the record companys publisher. The artist remains a liability to the publisher as long as the artist has not made as much money as was invested into them by the publisher. An accountant usually handles the royalty department, which is money received from performances of the copyrighted music. This financial person will also handle normal operations such as payroll, accounts payable/receivable, insurance, purchasing and other financial operations.

The copyright department may have one or more people in this division. This department is responsible for a number of tasks. Some of these important tasks are to:

1. Conduct a title search. The copyright department first determines who owns the work. Just because an artist claims to have written a song does not give him rights to it. This may be a complicated process, which is why many publishers stay away from music that is sent blindly to them for review. Legal disputes between the publisher and the writer could result and end up in court, which can be a long and costly process. Other issues that add to the complication are co-authors to the music, previous publishers, revision to music or lyrics, and many more. When the copyright department has performed this research, a copyright attorney can answer remaining questions. Depending on the demand of this type of attorney to the firm, the firm may hire one full time for these affairs.

2. Registering claims of copyright. This is done to make the copyright official, which may cost about twenty dollars for a song.

3. Handle the mechanical, and synchronization licenses of the music. Mechanical licenses are issued to artists for the recording of a copyrighted work. Synchronization licenses are issued for the use of copyrighted works in firms. This may be done through the Harry Fox agency, or may be handled through the copyright department.

4. Keeping current records of all copyrights owned by the publisher. This includes the renewal, extensions, sales, or abandonment of existing copyrights. Copyrights do have a time limit, so the need to watch where they stand in time is important to the life of the work.

There may be a specific department for business affairs that deal with the legal operations of the firm. The publisher may have staffed lawyers and attorneys in this department that study the copyright laws and take legal action for the breaking of copyright laws, or the negotiating of new laws. If the publisher does not have the demand for a full time lawyer or attorney, they may be hired from outside firms.

The acquisitions division is responsible for contracting writers and purchasing other catalogs. A representative from the publisher may travel the country to find artists that would bring more business to the firm. Like scouts this person is in charge of artists and repertoire (A & R). The A & R representative may attend a major event by an artist to see them perform and evaluate whether they would be profitable for the firm. Remember that the publisher splits all profits 50-50; millions of dollars may be at stake at the success of one artist. The acquisitions department is responsible for the purchasing of catalogs of smaller firms. This makes the music publishing industry and oligopoly; an industry controlled by a few large firms.

The print publishing division is responsible for task such as editing, engraving, artwork, copying, and the printing of its catalogs music. The signed artists may meet with the editors, and arrangers in this department to prepare the music for printing in a number of different ways. The music would simply be transcribed to a lead sheet, or an entire album could be published in a book with all the chords and guitar tabs for aspiring musicians to purchase. After the music is printed it is then distributed.

The promotion division is often the largest of all the divisions in a full-line publishing company. The success of a work is held in the hand of the promotion of the artist and their music. Even artists that do not have outstanding talent or abilities, but have excellent promotion will have more fame than the talented unadvertised artist. The people incharge of these artists success are the producers, managers, and musical directors for not only the records they produce but also the performances they give. Producers in the recording studio deal with the quality of the music and how it sounds the its audience. The musical director may also be present to make decisions about the arranging of music during the recording project. The artists manager is responsible for the personal well being of the artist. The other departments involved in promotion are responsible for print ads, store displays for the album, direct mail to retailers and fans, and any other special events.

After all the acquisions, administration, print production, and promotion divisions have performed their responsibilities, the distribution division takes control and begins to put this intellectual, funded, copyrighted, recorded, printed, promoted music into the hands of consumers. The distribution and sales division distributes the CDs, tapes, sheet music, T-shirts, and other merchandise to wholesalers and retailers of the products. These vendors buy in large quantities at wholesale prices. Another distributor of sheet music known as a rack jobber deals with small quantities of music usually less that one hundred at a time. Other distribution may be done through direct mail, catalog and online sales.

The final division of the full-line publisher is the subpublishers and licenses. Most publishers will contact different tasks to other publishers who may specialize in print or other services necessary to the artist but not provided by the primary publisher. The most common service performed by subpublishers is printing. Companies like Hal Leonard, Inc. and Warner/Chappell are two of the largest print publishers. In these kind of contracts the printer acts as the licensee and bare the full cost of printing and distributing while the licensee pays the licensor a royalty on sales of up to twenty percent of the wholesale cost. In this situation the licensee acts as selling agent.

The administration, acquisitions, print production, promotion, distribution and sales, and subpublishing all make up these full-line publishing firms industry. Some companies may specialize in a certain areas, but all are necessary to make money in the end. When we see a piece of printed music, or a CD by a famous artist, we can now see that getting that into our hands did not happen overnight, but through the hundreds of man hours put into making that artist successful we are able to share in the intellectual property thousands of songwriters all over the world.

In the following paragraphs I will discuss the types of music uses in reference to the appropriate music license.

The commercial broadcast of non-dramatic music would include the use of music for radio stations, most television station, as well as broadcasting networks. The type of license required for the use of this kind of music is a performance license. The performance rights associations ASCAP, BMI and SESAC are responsible for the collection of these royalties. Radio and television stations pay royalties calculated by a per-song basis or a percentage of gross income. Other broadcasting of music that requires a performance license may include restaurants, clubs, and background music services. These types of licenses could be a one-year blanket license that is a one-time fee. The rate of the license is dependent on a few things such as:

3. The number of hours of entertainment provided.

4. The gross income of the facility.

The owner of the rights to the song issues the license. ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC all have different songs that they are responsible for collecting royalties for. Most places obtaining licenses for commercial broadcast of non-dramatic music pay royalties to all three organizations.

Nonbroadcast performance of non-dramatic music also requires a performance license. This type of music would be anything that is not broadcasted outside of the actual performance. An example of this would be a bar or club with live music. The music is provided to entertain customers so that they will stay and continue to buy food or drinks provided by the venue. The live music makes the venue money, so a license is required to allow the writer and publisher of the music it make money for the song that they own the rights to. The band performing the music is not responsible for paying for this performance license; the venue is responsible for this expense because they are the ones benefiting from the live music. The only case that a band would require a license is if they are producing the show and making the money by performing another artists music. Colleges usually pay a blanket license allowing them to have bands perform on their campus without purchasing a license each time. However, if the act is a national act a special license is required. Like commercial broadcast music, ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC are responsible for collecting these royalties and the owner of the rights to the music would issue the right.

Phonorecords, audiocassettes, compact discs, videocassettes, and videodiscs sold for private use require a compulsory or negotiated mechanical license. A compulsory license is issued in a situation where the rights owner does not initially grant the permission for the song to be recorded. This license is more expensive than a negotiated mechanical license. The negotiated license is discussed between the rights owners and the person wanting to record the song for their own private use. This may be a very inexpensive license, or simply granted permission. There would be no royalties involved due to the private use of the work.

Music video production used for broadcast for cable television requires a synchronization license and a performance license. The synchronization license is issued for the right to use music that is timed to synchronization with, or relate to, the action on the screen. Video production requires this license. Because the music is broadcasted a performance license is required. ASCAP, BMI and SESAC also have contracts with MTV, HBO, and USA that collect royalties from these stations for the use of music on their television stations. The issuer of these license are the owners of the rights to the works. Generally, the owner of the rights to the music in a film is the film producer, not the composer.

Movie, music video, other video software sold or rented to individuals for home use requires a synchronization license that includes license to mechanically reproduce copies for sale. The issuer of this license is the producer or owner of the rights to the work. Again, generally the film, video, or software producer owns the rights, if the composer withholds those rights, the composer must issue the license. ASAP, BMI, and SESAC handle the payment of these royalties.

Motion picture for theatrical exhibition requires a synchronization license that includes a right to exhibit. The producer of the motion picture issues this license and the royalties are handled by ASCAP, BMI and SESAC.

Broadcast commercial requires a negotiated license issued from the publisher. These are some of the highest earnings from special use permits. A commercial advertisement will pay thousands of dollars for the use of a popular song on a broadcasted advertisement. In these licenses the advertiser can usually alter the words to suit the product. If the music is composed specially for a commercial the composer can grant a buyout deal giving the advertiser unlimited usage of the music. ASAP, BMI, and SESAC would collect the royalties from music used under a special use permit.

Merchandising tie-ins, computer software applications are a negotiated license issued by the publisher. These are similar to broadcast commercials however, there may be no way of tracking times played so a one-time fee may cover the entire license and no royalties collected.

Business music provided by companies like Muzak, require a transcription license issued by the publisher, the Harry Fox Agency or SESAC. The types of uses would be music provided in shopping centers, in-flight music, or hotel elevator music. The collection of royalties is negotiated with ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.

Dramatico-musical production requires a grand right or dramatic right license negotiated with the copyright owner. These types of uses are for music used in a production where the music plays an integral part in the plot and carries the drama forward. Broadway shoe and similar productions fall into this category. The shows composer receive the royalties from ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC for this type of use.

Public broadcasting station and jukebox use require a negotiated license. PBS is a television station along with Public radio that negotiate fees with the publisher. ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC collect any royalties. The jukebox operator negotiates fees with the copyright owner. The Jukebox License Office contacts the jukebox operators and offers them one blanket license to cover ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.

The last type of music is in use with cable television. A compulsory license or negotiated license is issued by the Copyright office for secondary transmissions use. The Copyright office then distributes this money to the copyright owners. Rates are set and periodically reevaluated with the assistance of a Copyright Arbitration Royalty Panel (CARP).

The Copyright Act of 1976 was implemented with the intent to minimize any disruptive impact on the structure of the industries involved and on generally prevailing industry practices. The act has seven essential provisions that cover almost every aspect of copyright law. It was also designed open-ended to allow it to change and be amended to change with this growing industry. This act applies to every part of the music industry from recording to publishing. The songwriters benefit greatly for a few reasons. One, the duration of copyright was lengthened to the authors life plus seventy years. This allows a songwriter to continue making money even past his death in which the money would go into his estate. This ensures writers that they will be generously compensated even when they are not able to reap the benefits themselves. Section 101, work made for hire, is very significant to composers, publishers, and movie producers. When a composer is writing on a work-for-hire basis, the employer is under law as the author of the creative work. Thus, the employer owns the rights to the work.

Another policy that will apply to songwriters is the periodic reexamination of policies and rates of music licenses. This ensures that as the industry grows and evolves to new places, that if a situation arises where they are at a disadvantage because of old law, the policy will be in review for change. In the same manner the music publishers share similar benefits to the songwriter. The publisher and writer are on the same level when the sign the contract agreeing to share profits 50-50. The greatest part of this act is Section 106, the Exclusive Rights in Copyrighted Works. Six exclusive rights are given to the owner of copyrights including (1) the right to reproduce the copyrighted work in copies or phonorecords; (2) to prepare derivative works based upon the copyrighted work. This allows the owner to expand the uses of their work outside of the original use. (3) to distribute copies or phonorecords of the copyrighted work to the public by sale or other transfer of ownership, or by rental, lease, or lending. The freedom to distribute and copy their own works makes it possible for not only the artist to be successful, but also the publisher along with the affiliated record label, and distribution companies. (4) In the case of literary, musical, dramatic, and choreographic worksto perform the copyrighted work publicly. This right makes the continuation of the performing arts possible. (5) In the case of literary, musical, dramatic, and choreographic worksto display the copyrighted work publicly. (6) In the case of sound recordings, to perform the copyrighted work publicly by means of a digital audio transmission. The Internet is the way of the future in a big way in the music industry and this exclusive rights leaves it open to change in the digital domain. The provisions that apply to the songwriter also apply to the publisher and all the divisions of the full-line publisher. The recording industry is fighting one of the biggest disputes in music history because of the way that our industry is changing with the evolution of the Internet. Napster, an Internet site that acts as the middleman for the sharing of music over the web. Napster claims that they arent responsible for the rights not being paid for this shared music because they do not actually touch the music. They provide a way for one user to look into another users personal computer and download audio files from their computer for free. Napter is facilitating the stealing of this music by providing this open door to users and bypassing the paying of rights to the artists and publishers of the music. The policies of music licenses being reexamined will allow the law to shape to this dispute and pay those who own the rights to the music.

In this subject we also include the fair use of copyrighted material. The law gives guidelines to what is considered fair use for this material. The act list the criteria for a fair use that includes:

1. The purpose or character of the use, including whether such uses is of a commercial nature or is for nonprofit educational purposes.

2. The nature of the copyrighted work

3. The amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted work as a whole

4. The effect of the use on the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work

There are exceptions to certain performances that are included in the fair use portion of the act. (1) The performance or display of a work by instructors or pupils in the course of face-to-face teaching activities of a nonprofit educational institution.

(2) Performance of a nondramatic literary or musical work, display of work, by or in the course of transmission.

These two uses allow students to study music for more that a hobby, but for a preparation for their careers upon graduation. This is a great resource for colleges to be able to teach and perform music and art for free as a fair use.

In the music industry there are three organizations that dominate the performance rights collection. These organizations are responsible for collecting royalties from clubs, concert halls, stadiums, bars, colleges, airlines, or any business or group that uses music to promote business for themselves. The money collected from these businesses is dispersed to publishing companies that split the profits with the songwriter. These performance rights organizations will take legal action against the venues that do not purchase the appropriate licenses for the uses of the copyrighted music. Some examples of licenses include mechanical, performance, special uses, synchronization and grand rights.

The first performance rights organization established in 1914 is the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP). ASCAPs income is derived from the following places in the music industry:

1. 20% to 25% from reciprocating foreign licensing organizations.

2. About half from television stations and networks

4. Annual fees are figured on a small percentage of the adjusted gross income

Membership of ASCAP is comprised mostly of composers and lyricists of Broadway shows, movie musicals, and pop songs. To become a member of ASCAP you must have at least one song commercially recorded, available on rental, or performed in media licensed by the society. ASCAP has a board of twelve writers and twelve publishers.

In weighting performances ASCAP takes into account the following:

1. The medium in which the performance takes place

2. The weight of the station on which the performance is carried

3. The weight of a television network

The organization pays its members on the basis of census and sample surveys of performances. These are usually done at random at places that have commercial airplay. The data is then figured on an average and royalties are paid based on the average.

Broadcast Music Inc. is set up different from ASCAP in its financial structure. BMI is owned by stockholders. Its board of directors consists of those who own shares in the company; several hundred people. The affiliates of BMI are songwriters from genres including jazz, rhythm and blues, country, rock, gospel and much more. Unlike ASCAP, BMI has no members, but has writer and publisher affiliates. BMI accepts those who have written a musical composition and have recorded or performed the work commercially. BMI pays higher for songs that originate in a Broadway show or feature film. As the song is play or performed more the copyright owners receive bonus payments of up to four times the minimum rate. BMI has many foreign writers and publishers in Europe and relays on income from overseas greatly. BMI does withhold 3. 6% for servicing foreign accounts. BMI deals with most licenses, as does ASCAP.

The Society of European Stage Authors and Composers (SESAC) is the third of the performance rights organizations. SESAC is the smallest of the three organizations. They believe that by being a smaller organization they can meet the needs of their writers and publishers better then the bigger organizations. The other side to this is that it is much more costly to the copyright owner to join with SESAC. SESAC is the technological leader among these organizations. They have a state-of -the-art tracking system which allows them to accurately track the performance and recording of works by its owners. SESAC uses a chart payment system, which makes royalty payments based on chart positions in major trade publications. Unlike ASCAP they do not have a weighing system. The success of the song is based on how high up on the chart it is. ASCAP and BMI operate under court consent decrees; SESAC does not. Each of these organizations has their own strength, and all three are important to the industry.

Working musicians can become members of unions and guilds that are respected around the nation. There are many benefits to being apart of these organizations. At a glance one may not like the idea of paying yearly dues to a group of musicians, but the benefits can be immeasurable in the right parts of the country. The American Federation of Musicians (AFM) is a trade union. It is the oldest union in the United States representing musicians that are active in their professional career. Over the year this union has seen decease in numbers because of difficulty in attracting new young members and state and national laws restricting certain kinds of collective bargaining. The union dues can range from one to five percent of union scale wages earned by its members. These dues are used to finance activities all over the nation and locally. The Union provides these musicians with the proper treatment and paid work. Most symphonies are made up from union players.

Other organizations include the American Guile of Variety Artists. The AGVA represents singers, dancers, comedians, ice skaters, jugglers, magicians, and others who perform live. The AGVA provides membership to all types of performers from the struggling to the world-famous. The AGVA will negotiate with the venues of its performers. The Screen Actors Guild is made up for actors, singers and even on-screen instrumentalists. All of these organizations are very specific to its members and who can join. A musician may have to be a part several unions or guilds to get the attention he need to succeed.

Some of the benefits to being a part of a musicians union are laid out in a Bill of Rights fashion including how union musicians are to be paid:

1. The right to enjoy a minimum wage, whether derived from live performance, royalties, or reuse, that is sufficient to provide a standard of support proportional to the entire investment of time and resources required to secure and perform said gainful employment.

2. The right to safe and healthy working conditions including protection from health threatening theatrical devices, demeaning and exploitive costumes or uniforms, excessive sound pressure levels, substandard travel arrangements, ingestion of second hand tobacco smoke, irrelevant

recorded music before performances and during intermissions and the right to reasonable rest periods.

3. The right to equal employment opportunities based on musical qualifications and/or entertainment value regardless of race, ethnic background, age, gender, religion, cultural diversity or political affiliations.

4. The right to negotiate fairly on one’s own behalf with universal recognition and legal enforcement of resulting contracts on agreed terms.

5. The right to ownership of all intellectual property rights as applied to compositions, performances, and recordings by all players and singers as well as leaders and publishers who are already protected.

Minimum wage from gainful employment must be sufficient to pay all necessary costs for life, shelter, and health care in the proportion of 100% for 40 hours weekly invested and directly proportional for fewer hours. This investment of time includes, in addition to hours of actual live performance, those hours spent in practice, rehearsal, preparation, post-production and (when required by the employer) promotion of the event. In absolutely no instance shall this total work investment be compensated for less than federally mandated minimum wages.

We can see that union protects and serves the musicians and gives them freedom to pursue their own careers in the performing arts. These organizations create stability for the pursuit of full-time jobs in many different areas of the arts, not only in music but also in the world of theatre and visual arts.

Bibliography:

This work, titled "Music business essay" was written and willingly shared by a fellow student. This sample can be utilized as a research and reference resource to aid in the writing of your own work. Any use of the work that does not include an appropriate citation is banned.

If you are the owner of this work and don’t want it to be published on AssignBuster, request its removal.

Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

AssignBuster . (2022) 'Music business essay'. 1 October.

AssignBuster. (2022, October 1). Music business essay. Retrieved from https://assignbuster.com/music-business-essay/

AssignBuster . 2022. "Music business essay." October 1, 2022. https://assignbuster.com/music-business-essay/.

1. AssignBuster . "Music business essay." October 1, 2022. https://assignbuster.com/music-business-essay/.

Bibliography

AssignBuster . "Music business essay." October 1, 2022. https://assignbuster.com/music-business-essay/.

"Music business essay." AssignBuster , 1 Oct. 2022, assignbuster.com/music-business-essay/.

[1] at local retailers than before. it
3 questions need answers
The social and political context of the 1950's is crucial to any understanding of the birth of rock n roll
Essay on royalties
Advantages of downloading copyrighted philosophy essay
Music publisher assignment
Case study: copyright issue

Please, let us know if you have any ideas on improving Music business essay, or our service. We will be happy to hear what you think: [email protected]

431 Music Essay Topics & Ideas

5 December 2023

last updated

Music essay topics explore diverse areas of music for academic or personal writing. This comprehensive collection of ideas encourages intellectual curiosity with topics ranging from historical musicology to contemporary pop culture. It also offers thematic ideas, like examining musical elements, understanding music’s societal influences, or analyzing distinct music genres. Aspiring musicologists, students, or avid music enthusiasts will find this article highly valuable for its broad spectrum and adaptable nature, suitable for various writing levels and interests. In this case, people delve deeper into music’s rich legacy, challenging them to form original perspectives and contribute to the larger discourse on music. Hence, this article on many music essay topics is a valid resource for unlocking the academic and artistic potential of music.

Hot Music Essay Topics

The Cultural Impact of British Invasion Bands in the 1960s
Decoding the Evolution of Hip-Hop from the 1970s to Today
How Music Streaming Platforms are Revolutionizing the Music Industry
The Role of Music in Social Movements: A Deep Dive into the Civil Rights Era
The Pervasive Influence of Jazz on Contemporary Music Genres
Punk Rock as the Soundtrack of Rebellion and its Sociopolitical Significance
Exploring the Cultural Phenomenon of Woodstock: Music, Counterculture, and Legacy
A Comprehensive Review of the Effect of Music Therapy on Mental Health
An Analysis of Melody and Harmony in Classical Music
Unraveling the Relationship Between Music and Identity from a Psychological Perspective
Music Meets Technology: The Evolution of Synthesizers in Electronic Music
Behind the Scenes and Processes of the Music Business: The Role of Record Labels
The Cultural Appropriation Controversy in the Realm of Popular Music
Tracing the Influence of African Music on American Blues and Jazz
The Impact of MTV and Music Videos on the Landscape of Pop Culture
A Review of Music Censorship: Historical Cases and Modern Challenges
Women in the Music Industry: Understanding the Barriers and Celebrating the Breakthroughs
The Effect of Globalization on the Dissemination of Non-Western Music Genres
The Role and Impact of Music in Education: An Examination of School Music Programs
The Beatles vs. The Rolling Stones: A Comparative Analysis of Musical Style and Influence

Easy Music Essay Topics

Evolution of Pop Music Genre in the 21st Century
Impact of Technology on Music Production
Influence of Classical Music on Modern Genres
Societal Relevance of Protest Songs in History
Examining the Relationship Between Music and Emotion
Significance of Traditional Music in Cultural Identity
Rap Music’s Influence on Youth Culture
Beatles’ Effect on Rock ‘n’ Roll Development
Comparison Between Baroque and Renaissance Music
Exploration of Music Therapy and Its Benefits
Film Scores: Music’s Pivotal Role in Cinema
Interrelation between Dance and Rhythm in Music
Globalization’s Impact on World Music Genres
Cultural Representation in Broadway Musicals
Feminism in Pop Music: Empowering or Exploitative?
Genre Fusion: How Reggae Influenced Hip-Hop
Psychological Effects of Music on Human Behavior
Depiction of Love in Country Music Lyrics
Dissecting the Business Model of Streaming Services in the Music Industry

Interesting Music Essay Topics

Unraveling the Impact of Music on Cognitive Development
Globalization and Its Influence on Music Genres
History and Evolution of Jazz: A Cultural Perspective
Healing Powers of Music: Fact or Fiction?
Pop Culture’s Influence on Contemporary Music
The Role of Music in Social Movements
Analyzing the Cultural Significance of Hip-Hop
The Science Behind Music’s Effect on Mood
Exploring the Artistic Value of Album Cover Designs
Autotune and Digitization: Blessing or Curse for the Music Industry?
Representation of Gender and Sexuality in Pop Music
Ethical Implications of Music Streaming Services
The Connection Between Music and Emotions: A Psychological Analysis
Evolution of Music Production Techniques: A Technological Study
Indie Music Scene: A Study of Its Growth and Impact
Music Festivals: Economic and Cultural Implications
Music Education: Its Importance in Schools
Role of Music in Film and Television: A Comprehensive Analysis
The Phenomenon of K-Pop: Cultural Exchange and Globalization
Copyright Laws and Their Impact on the Music Industry

100 General Music Essay Topics

The Future of Music: Exploring AI and Machine Learning
Nurturing Music Education in Schools
Ethical Considerations in Music Piracy
Women in the Music Industry: Breaking Barriers and Empowering Change
Reggae’s Global Impact on Music Styles
Unveiling the Popularity of K-Pop
Music’s Impact on Cognitive Development
Music Censorship: Perspectives from Around the World
Cultural Identity Formation and the Power of Music
The Interplay of Music and Politics
The Cinematic Power of Music: Exploring Soundtracks
The Music Festival Business: Strategies and Successes
The Emergence of Indie Music: A New Era of Creativity
Latin Music’s Influence on Global Pop Culture
Music’s Role in Enhancing Physical Performance
The Science Behind Sound: An Introduction to Acoustics
Exploring the History of Electronic Music
The British Invasion’s Impact on American Music
Music’s Therapeutic Role: Healing and Transforming Lives
Boy Bands and Girl Groups: Cultural Phenomena in Music
Motown Records: Shaping Music and Culture
Country Music’s Influence on American Identity
The Sociology of Music: Exploring Fan Culture and Subcultures
Music’s Emotional Power: Understanding Mood and Emotion
The Evolution of Music Videos: From MTV to YouTube
Reviving Vinyl Records in the Digital Age
The Beatles’ Enduring Legacy in Modern Music
Streaming Services and the Changing Landscape of Music Consumption
Unraveling the Psychology of Musical Preferences
Music Globalization: Bridging Cultures and Connecting Hearts
Music’s Role in Spiritual and Religious Practices
The Fusion of Music and Visual Arts
Music and Mindfulness: Exploring Meditation and Sound
Blues Music: A Cultural Significance
Opera’s Influence on Modern Theatrical Music
Transforming Music Production in the Digital Era
Music’s Impact on Childhood Development
Rock and Roll: Revolutionizing Social Change
Ethnomusicology: Understanding Music in Cultural Context
The Complex Relationship Between Music and Violence
Music’s Role in Promoting Social Inclusion
Punk Music’s Impact on Youth Culture: Rebellion, Expression, and Identity
Copyright Laws in Music: Balancing Protection and Creativity
Harnessing the Power of Music in Advertising: Soundtracks, Emotions, and Branding
LGBTQ+ Representation in the Music Industry: Breaking Barriers and Amplifying Voices
The Influence of Gospel Music on the R&B and Soul Genres: Roots and Inspirations
Music’s Cultural Role in Indigenous Communities: Tradition, Identity, and Resilience
Music’s Impact on Workplace Productivity: Boosting Focus, Motivation, and Performance
Disco’s Influence on Dance Music: Rhythm, Groove, and Dancefloor Revolution
Music as a Voice of Protest: From Folk Anthems to Punk Anthems
Grunge Music: The Rise of Alternative Rock and Its Lasting Impact
Music Sampling: Artistic Innovation or Plagiarism Debate?
The Influence of Rap Music on Modern Poetry: Rhyme, Rhythm, and Social Commentary
Music Technology’s Impact on Live Performances: Innovation, Integration, and Audience Experience
Music’s Narration in Film: Enhancing Emotion, Atmosphere, and Storytelling
The Evolution of Music Genres: Shaping Sounds, Styles, and Cultural Trends
From Vinyl to Digital: Exploring the Art of DJing and Its Technological Transformations
Music’s Role in Language Learning: Enhancing Linguistic Skills and Cultural Understanding
Music’s Contribution to Raising Awareness of Sustainable Development Goals
Exploring the Frontier of Music in Virtual Reality: Immersive Experiences and Creative Possibilities
The Role of Music in Video Games: Immersion, Atmosphere, and Player Engagement
Evolving Children’s Music: From Traditional Rhymes to Educational Entertainment
The Impact of Online Channels and Social Media on Music Promotion: Reaching Audiences, Building Communities
Classical Music’s Influence on Cognitive Abilities: Memory, Focus, and Mental Development
Flamenco Music’s Cultural Significance: Expressing Passion, Heritage, and Identity
The Evolution and Impact of Music Television Channels: Shaping Popular Culture and Music Consumption
Folk Music’s Influence on Modern Singer-Songwriters: Traditions, Storytelling, and Contemporary Expressions
Music’s Therapeutic Role in Dementia and Alzheimer’s Treatment: Memory, Connection, and Quality of Life
Broadway Musicals’ Influence on Popular Culture: Theatrical Magic, Showmanship, and Entertainment
The #MeToo Movement’s Impact on the Music Industry: Addressing Abuse, Empowering Change
Music’s Role in Teenage Identity Formation: Expression, Belonging, and Self-Discovery
African American Music Evolution: From Spirituals to Hip-Hop
The History and Influence of Bollywood Music: Celebrating India’s Cinematic Melodies
Music Genres’ Effect on Exercise Performance: Rhythm, Tempo, and Motivation
Music’s Role in Climate Change Awareness: Advocacy, Inspiration, and Environmental Impact
Heavy Metal Music: Evolution, Subgenres, and Cultural Influence
Mariachi Music’s Cultural Significance: Tradition, Celebration, and Mexican Heritage
Technology’s Influence on Music Creation: Digital Tools, Production Techniques, and Creative Possibilities
Music’s Role in Autism Therapy: Communication, Expression, and Emotional Support
Music’s Impact on Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Relaxation, Mindfulness, and Wellness
The Influence of Music on Sleep Quality: Relaxation, Sleep Patterns, and Sleep Hygiene
Evolving Music Criticism in the Digital Age: From Print to Online Platforms
Music’s Role in Multicultural Education: Celebrating Diversity, Promoting Inclusion
The History and Influence of Salsa Music: Rhythm, Dance, and Cultural Fusion
Music’s Impact on Consumer Behavior in Retail: Atmosphere, Branding, and Purchase Decisions
Music’s Influence on Memory Recall: Soundtracks, Nostalgia, and Emotional Connections
Music’s Role in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment: Healing, Coping, and Resilience
The History and Influence of J-Pop Music: Pop Culture, Fashion, and Global Fanbase
The Impact of Music on Early Childhood Education: Development, Learning, and Creativity
Music’s Influence on the Perception of Time: Tempo, Rhythm, and Psychological Effects
Music’s Role in Community Development: Collaboration, Empowerment, and Social Change
Psychedelic Rock’s Influence on Contemporary Music: Innovation, Counterculture, and Sonic Exploration
Rehabilitation and Recovery: The Transformative Role of Music
Reggaeton Music: Cultural Origins, Influence, and Global Reach
Music’s Impact on Neuroplasticity: Brain Development, Learning, and Cognitive Abilities
Celtic Music’s Influence on Modern Folk Genres: Traditions, Melodies, and Cultural Connections
The Creative Spark: Music’s Role in Enhancing Creativity
Swing Music: The History, Style, and Enduring Appeal
The Role of Music in Pain Management: Soothing, Distraction, and Therapeutic Effects
Ambient Music’s Influence on Relaxation and Mindfulness: Creating Tranquil Soundscapes

Argumentative Music Essay Topics

Pop Music’s Influence on Youth: Impact or Exploitation?
The Appropriation vs. Appreciation Debate in Music
Evaluating the Effects of Digital Streaming on Artists’ Earnings
Autotune: Enhancing Music or Undermining Talent?
Exploitation in the Music Industry: A Reality Check
Does Music Genre Define Individual Personality Traits?
Impact of Explicit Content in Music: Artistic Freedom or Harmful Influence?
Music Censorship: Necessary Measure or Infringement of Rights?
Should Music Education Be Mandatory in Schools?
Influence of Western Music on Other Cultures: Cultural Exchange or Dominance?
The Commercialization of Indie Music: Evolution or Degradation?
Are Reality Music Shows Truly Beneficial for Aspiring Musicians?
Music Therapy: Genuine Healing Method or Placebo Effect?
Classical Music’s Relevance in the Modern Era: Declining or Evolving?
The Ethics of Sampling in Modern Music Production
Role of Music in Film: Essential Component or Marketing Tactic?
Is The Popularity of an Artist Reflective of Their Musical Talent?
Music Piracy: Fair Use or Unfair Practice?
Do Music Festivals Promote Cultural Integration or Commodification?
Boy Bands Phenomenon: Musical Skill or Mere Fan Frenzy?

Research Music Essay Topics

Analyzing the Evolution of Punk Rock Music
The Role of Folk Music in Preserving Cultural Heritage
Impacts of Technology on Music Production and Distribution
Understanding the Psychological Effects of Music Therapy
Classical Music: Its Influence on Modern Genres
Musical Improvisation: An Analysis of Jazz and Blues
The Impact of Social Issues on Hip-Hop Lyrics
Exploring the Economic Aspects of the Music Industry
Evolution of Music Videos: Artistic Expression or Commercial Endeavor?
The Effect of Digital Streaming on Independent Musicians
The Phenomenon of Boy Bands: Sociocultural Aspects
Censorship in Music: A Comparative Study Across Nations
Evaluating the Role of Soundtracks in Movies
Impact of Music Education on Child Development
The Relationship Between Dance and Music: A Cultural Exploration
Gender Representation in Music: A Critical Analysis
The Influence of Latin Music on Popular Culture
Ethnomusicology: Studying Music in Its Cultural Context
The Role of Music in Historical Events and Movements

World Music Essay Topics

African Music Traditions: Influence and Evolution
The Role of Music in Indigenous Cultures
Exploring the Diversity of Asian Music Genres
Flamenco: An Insight into Spanish Music and Dance
Celtic Music: Its Roots and Influence on Contemporary Genres
The Impact of Reggae on Global Music Culture
Analyzing the Musical Elements of Bollywood Film Scores
Samba: The Rhythmic Heartbeat of Brazil
Origins and Development of American Blues Music
Middle Eastern Music: Exploring Its Unique Characteristics
The Cultural Significance of Australian Aboriginal Music
Understanding the Evolution of European Classical Music
The Role of Music in Caribbean Festivals and Celebrations
The Influence of French Chanson on Popular Music
Traditional Music’s Role in Cultural Preservation: Case Study of Japanese Gagaku
The Impact of Greek Folk Music on Mediterranean Musical Traditions
The Intersection of Music and Religion in Indian Ragas
Exploring the Cultural Diversity in Mexican Music
The Historical Evolution of Russian Folk Music
Musical Instruments and Their Role in Defining Cultural Identity: The African Djembe as a Case Study

Hip-Hop Music Essay Topics

Hip-Hop: A Powerful Medium for Social Commentary
Examining the Influence of Hip-Hop on Fashion Trends
Roles of Sampling in the Artistic Identity of Hip-Hop
Exploring the Controversy: Does Hip-Hop Promote Violence?
The Cultural Significance of Beatboxing in Hip-Hop
Analyzing the Impact of Hip-Hop on Language and Slang
The Influence of Hip-Hop on Pop Culture
Feminism in Hip-Hop: Progress and Challenges
How Does Hip-Hop Music Address Racial Issues?
The Economics of the Hip-Hop Industry
Evolution of Dance Styles in Hip-Hop Culture
Hip-Hop’s Influence on Mental Health Discourse
East Coast vs. West Coast: The Hip-Hop Rivalry
The Impact of Digital Platforms on Hip-Hop Music Distribution
Analyzing the Role of DJs in Hip-Hop Culture
Hip-Hop and Its Influence on Global Music Genres
The Commercialization of Hip-Hop: Artistic Freedom or Selling Out?
Autobiographical Storytelling in Hip-Hop: A Tool for Empowerment

Pop Music Essay Topics

Gender Representation in the Pop Music Industry
The Global Impact of K-Pop: An Unstoppable Phenomenon
Influence of Pop Music on Teenagers’ Attitudes and Behaviors
Autotune: Enhancement or Detriment to Pop Music?
The Role of Music Videos in the Pop Culture Landscape
Analyzing the Success of Boy Bands in Pop Music
Cultural Appropriation Concerns in the Pop Music Industry
Power Dynamics: Examining the Business Behind Pop Music
How Social Media Transformed Pop Music Stardom
From Pop Divas to Feminist Icons: A Shift in Representation
Latin Pop’s Rising Influence on the Global Music Scene
Pop Music Lyrics: Reflection of Social Issues or Simple Entertainment?
Technology’s Role in Shaping the Sound of Modern Pop Music
Science of a Pop Hit: Factors that Influence Chart Success
Mental Health and Its Portrayal in Pop Music
Pop Music Collaborations: A Marketing Strategy or Artistic Choice?
The Influence of Western Pop Music in Non-Western Countries
Exploring the Relationship Between Pop Music and Dance
The Ethical Implications of Sampling in Pop Music

Rock Music Essay Topics

The Crossroads of Rock and Pop: Evolution of Pop Rock
Grunge Rock: Its Origins, Influence, and Decline
Influence of Rock Music on Fashion Trends Over the Decades
The Role of Rebellion Themes in Rock Music
Gender Representation and Dynamics in Rock Music
The Significance of Live Performances in the Rock Music Scene
The Fusion of Blues and Rock: A Historical Overview
How Technological Advances Shaped the Sound of Rock Music
Rock Music as a Tool for Social Activism and Change
Psychedelic Rock and Its Effect on the Music Industry
Heavy Metal: A Subgenre of Rock Music with Distinctive Features
How Has Punk Rock Challenged Mainstream Music Norms?
Rock Music in Movies: Enhancing Narrative and Emotion
Analyzing the Pioneers of Rock and Roll: Their Legacy and Influence
Cultural Impact of the British Invasion in the 1960s
The Evolution of Rock Music: From Roots to Contemporary Forms
Roles of Music Festivals in the Promotion of Rock Music
Examining the Lyrics of Rock Music: Sociopolitical Commentary
The Impact of Rock Music on Teenagers’ Behavioral Patterns
Exploring the Relationship Between Rock Music and Youth Culture

Dance Music Essay Topics

Dance Music and Its Role in Promoting Physical Health
The Rise and Influence of Dubstep in Contemporary Dance Music
The Business of Dance Music: From Record Labels to Streaming Platforms
Role of Technology in the Development of Electronic Dance Music
The Influence of Cultural Diversity on Dance Music Genres
Dance Music in Film: Enhancing Narrative and Atmosphere
Understanding the DJ’s Role in Shaping Dance Music Culture
Tracing the Origins and Evolution of House Music
The Social Impact of Club Culture on Dance Music
Music Production Techniques in Modern Dance Genres
Choreography and Dance Music: An Inseparable Pair
The Impact of Dance Music on Pop Culture
How Does Dance Music Shape Fashion Trends?
Commercialization of Dance Music: Pros and Cons
Exploration of Gender Dynamics in the Dance Music Scene
Dance Music Festivals: Impact on Tourism and Local Economies
Analyzing the Global Appeal of K-Pop Dance Music
The Relationship Between Dance Music and Youth Culture
Evolution of Dance Music: From Disco to Electronic

Relax Music Essay Topics

Science Behind Relaxing Music: How Does It Affect Our Brain?
Evolution of Relaxing Music: From Classical to New Age
The Role of Music in Yoga and Meditation Practices
Analyzing the Impact of Relaxing Music on Sleep Quality
Soundscapes in Relaxation Music: From Nature Sounds to White Noise
Relaxing Music and Its Influence on Stress and Anxiety Levels
The Significance of Tempo and Rhythm in Relaxing Music
The Use of Relaxing Music in Therapeutic Settings
Understanding the Cultural Differences in Relaxation Music
Relaxing Music in the Classroom: Does It Enhance Learning?
Impacts of Relaxing Music on Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Roles of Relaxing Music in Improving Concentration and Focus
Relaxing Music and Its Effects on Post-Workout Recovery
Use of Relaxation Music in Maternity Wards and Its Effect on Newborns
Harmonic Structures Commonly Found in Relaxing Music
The Influence of Ambient Music on Mental Well-being
Roles of Music Therapy in Reducing Anxiety and Pain in Patients
Can Relaxing Music Enhance the Quality of Meditation?
Binaural Beats and Isochronic Tones: Do They Help in Relaxation?
Relaxing Music in Workplaces: Impact on Productivity and Employee Satisfaction

Indie Music Essay Topics

An Examination of the Business Strategies Employed in the Indie Music Scene
The Progressive Influence of Technology on Indie Music’s Growth
Decoding the Artistic Liberty Inherent in Indie Music Creation
Cultural Connotations and Impacts Linked to Indie Music: An Analysis
Indie Music’s Contributions to Fashion and Contemporary Lifestyle Phenomena
The Part Indie Music Plays in Challenging Dominant Pop Culture
Tracing the Evolution and Influence of Indie Music Within the Music Industry
A Comparative Study on the Unique Aesthetics Found in Indie Music
The Rise of DIY Practices in Indie Music Culture: An Ethnographic Perspective
The Correlation Between Indie Music and Socio-Political Discourse Advocacy
Indie Music Festivals: An Analysis of Their Distinctive Features and Attraction
Roles and Impacts of Internet Technology and Social Media in Advancing the Popularity of Indie Music
How Indie Music Affects Identity Development: A Psychological View?
Understanding the Intersection of Indie Music and Independent Cinema
Investigating Gender Depictions within the Indie Music Scene: A Thematic Study
The Challenges and Prospects Faced by Indie Artists in Today’s Digital Era
A Deep Dive into the Shifting Soundscapes in Indie Music Over Time
The Influence of Indie Music on Modern Youth Culture from a Sociological Angle
Indie Music as a Tool for Artistic and Cultural Dissent

Training Music Essay Topics

The Science Behind Music and Its Impact on Athletic Performance
Rhythmic Influence: How Music Affects Training Patterns
Understanding the Psychology of Training Music: A Detailed Analysis
Evaluating the Role of Music in Enhancing Concentration During Training
The Impact of Music Tempo on Training Intensity
Role of Training Music in Stress Reduction and Relaxation
The Use of Music in Rehabilitation Training: A Therapeutic Perspective
Music Preferences Among Athletes: An Ethnographic Study
How Training Music Facilitates Flow State in Athletes
Exploring the Relationship Between Music Genres and Training Types
Music’s Influence on Physical Endurance and Stamina
The Art of Curating Effective Training Music Playlists
Roles of Music in Reducing Perceived Exertion During Workouts
Harmonizing Heart Rate and Beat: Music’s Role in Cardio Training
Psychological Benefits of Incorporating Music into Fitness Training
Music and Mindfulness in Training: A New Approach
The Impact of Lyrics in Training Music on Athlete Motivation
The Interplay of Music and Training in Dance and Choreography
Sonic Branding: The Use of Music in Athletic Training Brands
Historical Development of Music Usage in Training Environments

Love Music Essay Topics

The Power of Love Ballads: Analyzing Their Emotional Impact on Listeners
Unveiling the Romantic Themes in Pop Music: A Comparative Analysis
Exploring the Evolution of Love Songs: From Classic to Contemporary
Melodies of Passion: Examining the Role of Music in Expressing Love and Desire
The Language of Love: Understanding Symbolism in Romantic Music Lyrics
Captivating Melodies, Enduring Love: A Study on Timeless Love Songs
Rhythm of the Heart: Analyzing the Role of Music in Strengthening Romantic Connections
Love in Every Note: Exploring the Intertwining of Music and Romantic Relationships
Harmonic Love Stories: Examining Musical Narratives of Love and Heartbreak
The Influence of Love Songs on Romantic Expectations and Perceptions of Love
The Soundtrack of Love: Investigating the Impact of Music on Relationship Satisfaction
Love Across Genres: Comparing the Expression of Love in Different Musical Styles
Musical Chemistry: Exploring the Role of Shared Music Preferences in Romantic Bonds
Unforgettable Duets: The Magic of Collaborative Love Songs
Musical Love Letters: Examining the Role of Music in Long-Distance Relationships
Love and Lyrical Evolution: Tracing the Changes in Romantic Themes in Music History
The Healing Power of Love Songs: Analyzing Their Therapeutic Effects on Emotional Well-Being
The Intersection of Love and Social Commentary in Music: Examining Love as a Catalyst for Change
Love in the Digital Age: Investigating the Influence of Streaming Platforms on Love Music Consumption

Metal Music Essay Topics

Tracing the Evolution of Metal Music: Unraveling Its Origins and Diverse Subgenres
Identity Formation and Subcultural Affiliation in Metal Music: Examining Its Influential Impacts
Shattering Gender Norms in Metal Music: Defying Stereotypes and Empowering Voices
Mental Health and Catharsis in Metal Music: Unleashing Its Profound Impact on Well-Being
Decoding the Themes and Symbolism in Metal Music Lyrics: Unveiling Perspectives and Social Commentary
The Political Potency of Metal Music: Galvanizing Activism and Fueling Protest Movements
Innovations and Controversies in Metal Music Production: Embracing Technological Advancements and Provocations
Globalization and Metal Music: Cross-Cultural Exchange and the Fusion of Sonic Landscapes
Aesthetics and Visual Imagery in Metal Music: Embodying Power through Striking Album Art and Electrifying Stage Performances
Spirituality, Religion, and Metal Music: Exploring Intersections and Controversial Explorations
Metal Music as a Catalyst for Subversion: Igniting Rebellion Through Its Countercultural Essence
Pop Culture Impact: Illuminating the Profound Influence of Metal Music on Fashion, Media, and Widespread Popularity
Language and Expression in Metal Music: Analyzing Lyrics and Communication within Vibrant Subcultural Communities
Historical and Cultural Contexts of Metal Music: Forging Identity, Revolting, and Carrying Cultural Significance
Metal Music Communities: Forging Unbreakable Bonds through Online Spaces, Fan Clubs, and Transformative Rituals
The Influence of Metal Music on Music Education: Navigating Challenges and Unleashing Transformative Possibilities in Pedagogy
Ethnic Identity and Metal Music: Representing, Appropriating, and Enriching Cultural Heritage
The Economic, Social, and Cultural Impacts of Metal Music Festivals in the Live Music Industry
Metal Music in the Digital Age: Navigating Digital Platforms, Streaming, and Thriving Online Communities
Empowerment, Catharsis, and Resilience: Unleashing the Transformative Potential of Metal Music on Health and Well-Being

Jazz Music Essay Topics

Unveiling the Influence and Significance: Exploring Jazz as a Catalyst for Cultural Revolution
The Art of Improvisation: Unraveling the Creative Process in Jazz Music
Examining the Contributions of Pioneering Musicians: The Innovators Who Shaped Jazz
Blending Genres and Pushing Musical Boundaries: The Fusion of Jazz with Other Styles
The Intersection of Music and Social Change: Jazz’s Role in the Civil Rights Movement
Analyzing the Elements that Define the Genre: The Aesthetics of Jazz Music
Nurturing the Next Generation of Jazz Musicians: The Importance of Jazz Education
Celebrating Black American Artistic Expression: Jazz and the Harlem Renaissance
Exploring Cultural Adaptations and Influences: Jazz in a Global Context
Unlocking the Secrets of Jazz Harmony and Structure: Composition and Arranging in Jazz Music
Celebrating Female Jazz Musicians and Their Contributions: The Role of Women in Jazz
Bridging Cultures through Rhythms and Sounds: Jazz and Its Fusion with Latin Music
Pushing the Boundaries of Musical Expression: Jazz and the Avant-Garde Movement
Tracing the Roots of the Genre: Jazz and Its Influences from African Rhythms
Examining the Unique Style and Artistry of Jazz Singers: Vocalists in Jazz Music
From Duke Ellington to Count Basie and Beyond: Exploring the Jazz Big Band Tradition
Embracing Technology while Preserving Tradition: Jazz in the Digital Age
Understanding the Essential Groove of the Genre: Jazz and the Concept of Swing
Preserving Jazz’s Worldwide Appeal and Adaptation: Jazz as a Global Language

Classical Music Essay Topics

The Influence of Musical Structure on Emotional Responses in Classical Compositions Explored
Gender Representation in Classical Music: A Comparative Study
Relationship Between Tempo and Perceived Expressiveness in Beethoven’s Symphonies Examined
Musical Devices Depicting Nature in Classical Orchestral Works Analyzed
Historical Context of Classical Music and Its Connection to Social Movements Explored
Instrumentation’s Role in Interpreting Baroque Music Investigated
Melodic Patterns in Mozart and Bach’s Piano Sonatas: A Comparative Study
Symbolism of Key Signatures in Classical Music Compositions Explored
Influence of Cultural Background on Classical Music Preferences Examined
Harmony’s Role in Classical Chamber Music Analyzed
Musical Techniques Creating Narrative Structures in Classical Operas Explored
Rhythm and Meter in Classical Symphonies: A Comparative Analysis
Connection Between Classical Music and Spatial Perception Explored
Representation of Mythological Themes in Classical Music Compositions Examined
Dynamics and Articulation’s Effect on Interpretation of Romantic Era Piano Music Explored
Role of Improvisation in Classical Music Performances Investigated
Connection Between Classical Music and Memory Retrieval Explored
Influence of National Identity on Classical Music Composers of the 19th Century Examined
Evolution of Orchestration Techniques in Classical Music Explored
Contrapuntal Techniques in Fugues by Classical Composers Examined

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

625 good nursing research topics, ideas, and ebp, 234 social media research topics & ideas.

Essay on Music for Students and Children

500+ words essay on music.

Music is a vital part of different moments of human life. It spreads happiness and joy in a person’s life. Music is the soul of life and gives immense peace to us. In the words of William Shakespeare, “If music is the food of love, play on, Give me excess of it; that surfeiting, The appetite may sicken, and so die.” Thus, Music helps us in connecting with our souls or real self.

What is Music?

Music is a pleasant sound which is a combination of melodies and harmony and which soothes you. Music may also refer to the art of composing such pleasant sounds with the help of the various musical instruments. A person who knows music is a Musician.

The music consists of Sargam, Ragas, Taals, etc. Music is not only what is composed of men but also which exists in nature. Have you ever heard the sound of a waterfall or a flowing river ? Could you hear music there? Thus, everything in harmony has music. Here, I would like to quote a line by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the greatest musicians, “The music is not in the notes, but in the silence between.”

Importance of Music:

Music has great qualities of healing a person emotionally and mentally. Music is a form of meditation. While composing or listening music ones tends to forget all his worries, sorrows and pains. But, in order to appreciate good music, we need to cultivate our musical taste. It can be cited that in the Dwapar Yug, the Gopis would get mesmerized with the music that flowed from Lord Krishna’s flute. They would surrender themselves to Him. Also, the research has proved that the plants which hear the Music grow at a faster rate in comparison to the others.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Magical Powers of Music:

It has the power to cure diseases such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, etc. The power of Music can be testified by the legends about Tansen of his bringing the rains by singing Raag Megh Malhar and lighting lamps by Raga Deepak. It also helps in improving the concentration and is thus of great help to the students.

Conclusion:

Music is the essence of life. Everything that has rhythm has music. Our breathing also has a rhythm. Thus, we can say that there is music in every human being or a living creature. Music has the ability to convey all sorts of emotions to people. Music is also a very powerful means to connect with God. We can conclude that Music is the purest form of worship of God and to connect with our soul.

FAQs on Essay on Music:

Q.1. Why is Music known as the Universal Language?

Ans.1. Music is known as the Universal language because it knows no boundaries. It flows freely beyond the barriers of language, religion, country, etc. Anybody can enjoy music irrespective of his age.

Q.2. What are the various styles of Music in India?

Ans.2. India is a country of diversities. Thus, it has numerous styles of music. Some of them are Classical, Pop, Ghazals, Bhajans, Carnatic, Folk, Khyal, Thumri, Qawwali, Bhangra, Drupad, Dadra, Dhamar, Bandish, Baithak Gana, Sufi, Indo Jazz, Odissi, Tarana, Sugama Sangeet, Bhavageet, etc.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

Travelling Essay
Picnic Essay
Our Country Essay
My Parents Essay
Essay on Favourite Personality
Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
Essay on Knowledge is Power
Essay on Gurpurab
Essay on My Favourite Season
Essay on Types of Sports

Download the App

G Eazy Hip Hop Culture

This essay about G-Eazy explores the life and career of the American rapper Gerald Earl Gillum, known by his stage name G-Eazy. Born on May 24, 1989, in Oakland, California, he rose from local beginnings to national fame with his unique blend of hip hop that incorporates ’50s rock ‘n’ roll aesthetics. The essay discusses his major albums, including his breakthrough “These Things Happen,” and his hit single “Me, Myself & I.” It also touches on his personal challenges, including his struggles with substance abuse and his efforts in philanthropy and activism, particularly in his hometown. The essay highlights how G-Eazy’s music reflects his personal experiences and how he remains a dynamic figure in the music industry, continuing to innovate and influence.

How it works

Gerald Earl Gillum, widely known by his stage name G-Eazy, is a prominent figure in the world of American hip hop. Born on May 24, 1989, in Oakland, California, G-Eazy has carved a niche for himself in the music industry with his distinctive style and charisma. His journey from the streets of Oakland to the stages of major global music festivals is a testament to his talent and perseverance.

Raised by his mother, Suzanne Olmsted, in a single-parent household, G-Eazy’s interest in music began at an early age.

His early exposure to his mother’s artistry and involvement in the local hip hop scene helped ignite his passion for music. By the time he was in his early teens, G-Eazy was already producing his own songs, an endeavor that would lay the groundwork for his future career.

G-Eazy’s music style is often described as a blend of classic hip hop, ’50s rock ‘n’ roll aesthetics, and a touch of contemporary rap. This unique fusion is evident in his slicked-back hair, leather jackets, and polished yet street-wise lyricism. His lyrics frequently explore themes of fame, love, and the trials of success, offering a window into his personal experiences and reflections.

His breakthrough came with the release of his major-label debut album, “These Things Happen,” in 2014. The album topped the Billboard Hip-Hop/R&B chart and marked his arrival on the national scene. It was followed by “When It’s Dark Out” in 2015, which included the hit single “Me, Myself & I,” a collaboration with Bebe Rexha that achieved multi-platinum status. This track, in particular, showcased G-Eazy’s ability to blend melodic choruses with rap verses, a formula that has proven successful across various music charts.

Despite his success, G-Eazy’s career has not been without its challenges. His personal life, particularly his relationships and struggles with substance abuse, have often been the subject of media scrutiny. Yet, these experiences have also fueled his artistry, providing depth to his music and allowing his fans to connect with him on a more personal level.

G-Eazy’s influence extends beyond music. He has ventured into philanthropy and activism, particularly in areas affecting his hometown of Oakland. His commitment to local issues, including education and youth programs, highlights his dedication to giving back to the community that raised him.

As he continues to evolve as an artist, G-Eazy remains a dynamic and influential figure in hip hop. With each album, he explores new themes and experiments with different sounds, ensuring that his music remains fresh and relevant. As of 2023, G-Eazy, now in his early thirties, shows no signs of slowing down, with fans eagerly anticipating his next projects.

G-Eazy’s journey from a hopeful rapper to a key player in the music industry illustrates the power of resilience and creativity. His story is not just about the glamor of fame, but the reality of hard work, personal growth, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. In the ever-changing landscape of hip hop, G-Eazy stands out as an artist who respects the genre’s roots while pushing its boundaries forward. As he matures, both personally and professionally, the music world watches with keen interest to see how this talented artist will continue to innovate and inspire.

Cite this page

G Eazy Hip Hop Culture. (2024, Apr 22). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/g-eazy-hip-hop-culture/

"G Eazy Hip Hop Culture." PapersOwl.com , 22 Apr 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/g-eazy-hip-hop-culture/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). G Eazy Hip Hop Culture . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/g-eazy-hip-hop-culture/ [Accessed: 25 Apr. 2024]

"G Eazy Hip Hop Culture." PapersOwl.com, Apr 22, 2024. Accessed April 25, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/g-eazy-hip-hop-culture/

"G Eazy Hip Hop Culture," PapersOwl.com , 22-Apr-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/g-eazy-hip-hop-culture/. [Accessed: 25-Apr-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). G Eazy Hip Hop Culture . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/g-eazy-hip-hop-culture/ [Accessed: 25-Apr-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

Music Business Management Essay

Artist Management Sometimes thought of as the single most important person in career of artiste. A good manager can expand an artiste’s career to its maximum potential - a bad one can rocket an artist to oblivion. What they generally do is most of the things the artist either can't be bothered to do or doesn't know how to do - they do these things usually in exchange for a percentage of the artist's earnings, this is called commission. A few of the roles of the typical manager include...Helping with career decisions - which record deal? Which publishing deal? How much etc.? Helping with the creative process - selecting a producer, deciding which songs to perform/record, selecting photographers or band members etc. Promotion by hyping to …show more content…

This means; 1. As to records made during the term, the manager gets a commission from sales after the management deal has ended. 2. The manager is paid on records made after the term of the deal if the records are recorded under a recording contract signed during the term. This means the manager could be getting paid long after the term has finished, however there are ways to prevent this, known as clauses. There are a few measures to cut back on after term commissions these are... 1. Records (a) The manager gets paid only on records recorded and released during the term and not on any others. This is best for the artiste. (b) Half commission after the term. 2. Publishing (a) The manager is paid only on songs recorded and released during the term. This is best for the artiste. (b) The manager gets half commission on songs recorded after the term. Agents Agents usually operate somewhere between the artist (or the artist's manager) and the promoter. Agents take on a number of artists and try to sell their live act to promoters, in return for a commission from the artiste on the earnings from the live work acquired. When promoters are looking for acts to use for promoting live events it is agents who they will turn to for the high earning potential acts. The responsibilities of the manager include most of those of an agent, i.e. getting work for the artist,

Success in the Music Industry

Think of the A&R Department as the middleman between the band and record label. A&R Department Responsibilities may include some or all of the following: locating bands, songwriters, and musicians for their record label, negotiating contracts for a band or artist, finding producers for recording the band, locating recording engineers, scheduling time to record the band, scouting songs for a band from music publishers with whom they have relationships, and listening to demos from bands. A&R Reps from

The Australian Music Scene Of Australia

Artist managers are important for bands. They do many things for the band to help them; they take care of the business side of things like contacting record companies. The manager makes sure that everyone involved in the band is doing their job. The manager might be on the phone with a record label asking about advertising campaigns or on the phone with an agent discussing upcoming gigs.

The Ins and Outs of the Music Industry Essay

9 Works Cited

Following this through, take pop phenomenon, Justin Beiber, for instance; Justin was found on YouTube by Atlanta based manager, Scooter Braun (Kaufman, 2010). As stated by Gladwell, “Mavens are people who have a strong compulsion to help others” (69). A manager in music is somewhat similar; a manager’s job is to handle the business of an artist, making sure the labels are doing their job and helps the artist keep their focus on music (About.com: Music Careers). Continuing on, manager Scooter Braun insisted on meeting the soon to be pop sensation, so he set up a meeting with Justin and his mom where Justin would have then accidentally run into R&B superstar Usher (Kaufman, 2010). Usher, in this case would be referred to as the connector, an individual who has many ties in many realms and act as the passage between them. Ushers role would be connector since he landed Justin a professional deal and formed a joint-venture label with Braun and Antonio L.A. Reid, the

Accounting Ram

| |iii. Manager’s Salary- controllable but not relevant – for both options one manager is required, therefore, the same |

Nt1310 Unit 3 Self Assignment

The occupation or role that will be discussed is the publisher. Publishers take a song that has been already been composer and attempt to persuade various artists or producers to record the song. Publishers also register copyrights, file mechanical and performing rights to the respective organizations, audit record companies, and collect royalties and payment.

The Issue Of Texas Law Essay

Also, under the same law, does celebrity induce a production company when celebrity said the songs were studio ready, could beat the August deadline, could start recording immediately, and negotiated better terms?

Hrm 531 Week 4

Firstly, the president and other management team members may get a higher overall salary by putting next year’s revenue to this year and transferring current year expenses to next year. The division’s management team’s salary and bonus may be based on the earnings of the division. By increasing revenue and decreasing expenses, they will be able to fake a higher operating income and thus receive higher compensation.

Lead and manage a team within a health and social care or children and young people’s setting

Managers perform many functions and play many roles. They are responsible for handling many situations and these situations are usually different from one another.

Blu Williams Case

But what really matters is that the manager knows what he/she is pitching. An unprepared manager will quickly kill any chance an artist would have with a label. As in the video, Tina Davis basically states that if you don’t work harder than the record label you will not make it. The A&R position is more important than any of job in the music industry according to Tina Davis. She goes on to talk about how the music business is harsh but for the ones that put in that extra effort the rewards can be great. It was interesting to see different types of managers in the video, one trying to over sell every artist he is pitching and not really sure which songs are best. And another manager simply letting the songs and artist speak for them, but at the same time didn’t

Grant Of Rights Case Study

While the potential administrator may offer an appealing advance to the band, it is recoupable from their share of the income generated during the term of the agreement. It is important for the band’s lawyer to make sure that the advance does not get disbursed to the band in one lump sum, because the band members are young and not yet accustomed to large income, which may lead them to getting distracted by the cash influx from focusing on producing music. Thus, it best to work out a schedule of separate (monthly, quarterly, weekly — any variation that will suit the band best) payments of the advance over a period of time. Hence, the band members will be less distracted and more motivated to continue working on their music.

Music Career Research Paper

After learning about all the careers in music, people can learn how music is shared with the world. Most do not think about how many different careers there are in music. If someone asked me what career I would enjoy, I would answer the manager. I would want to be the manager, because I am very responsible and would enjoy helping the artist. I would love to be right beside the artist all the way through their career. I could go to sleep each night knowing that I am helping someone fulfill their dreams. Even though I would enjoy being a manager, that does not mean each of the other careers are not very

Business Management Essays

The world of business has undergone radical and dramatic changes in the last decade changes that present extraordinary challenges for the contemporary manager. A manager is an organizational member who is responsible for planning, organizing, leading, and controlling the activities of the organization so that the goals can be achieved. According to a widely referenced study by Henry Mintzberg, managers serve three primary roles: interpersonal, informational, and decision-making. Management is process of administrating and coordinating resources effectively and efficiently in an effort to achieve the goals of the organization.

The Role of Media in the Music Industry Essay

When musicians produce albums, they want people to listen to the albums. There is not one specific way for a band or single musician to gain an audience and promote their music. Musicians use many different kinds of media to promote their music. They use visual media as well as strictly listening media. The radio, television, and the internet are all different types of media musicians use to promote their music.

Artist Management

As more artists decide to represent themselves or to take more proactive role in the marketing of their work, this is where the role of an artist manager comes in especially when the artist could not carry out the management-related responsibilities. An artist manager is able to help enhance an artist’s career by planning out their career or even helps negotiate a contract to protect the rights of the artist.

Four Main Functions of Management Essay

1 Works Cited

Managers are expected to do a multitude of things. A manager has to be a visionary and adaptive to meet the current demands of what is required of them at all level

Even If Drake Loses the Kendrick Lamar Battle, Here’s Why He Already Won the War

While Kendrick's verse on Metro Boomin and Future's "Like That" reverberated the hip-hop space, Drake fired back and looks to take control over a war he's probably already won.

By Carl Lamarre

Carl Lamarre

Share this article on Facebook
Share this article on Twitter
Share this article on Flipboard
Share this article on Pinit
+ additional share options added
Share this article on Reddit
Share this article on Linkedin
Share this article on Whatsapp
Share this article on Email
Print this article
Share this article on Comment
Share this article on Tumblr

Drake attends a game between the Houston Rockets and the Cleveland Cavaliers at Toyota Center on March 16, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

The Weeknd's Postponed Stadium Tour of Australia Is Cancelled

See latest videos, charts and news

Trending on Billboard

Drake’s first attempt at fire came on Saturday (Apr. 13), when “Push Ups” arrived via DJ Akademiks, after being initially leaked on the internet. The song starts with a DJ Whoo Kid drop, a call-back to the 2000s mixtape scene, and finds Drake seething. With no remorse, Drake aims at Kendrick’s physical limitations, calling him a “pipsqueak” and claiming he wears a “size 7” shoe. Drake later named Lamar’s wife Whitney in a clever double-entendre while referencing Whitney Houston’s role in the 1992 film The Bodyguard . He even taunts Lamar’s superstar status by saying that SZA, 21 Savage and Travis Scott hold more weight than he currently does in the music business. While “Push Ups” is an excellent first-round crack at Lamar, it won’t be the final blow to what will likely be a long, grueling slugfest.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJ Akademiks (@akademiks)

That’s not to say Drake is unreachable. In May 2018, Pusha T managed to get his claws deep inside the 6 God and walk away champion in their battle of the words. But, in retrospect, Drake’s star continued to gleam, as he’s scored five No. 1 since – including one right after the feud in that June’s Scorpion , which also included three Hot 100-toppers with “God’s Plan,” “Nice For What” and “In My Feelings.” His tiff with Pusha proved that whatever losses he suffered from the battle had no immediate effect on his commercial prowess. The phones still still rang, and people clamored for features. The aftershock of the skirmish did very little to kill Drake’s overall momentum.

Even “Duppy Freestyle,” Drake’s initial burst at Pusha, was a praiseworthy record: Not only did Drake send missiles at Push regarding his skill set (“You’re not even top five as far as your label talent goes”), but he questioned his credibility as an alleged one-time drug lord (“You act like you sold drugs for Escobar in the ‘80s.”) Despite his pop titan status, he proved that he could spar and get down in the trenches when needed. Many forget that Drake is also battle-tested over the course of his career in rap beef: He went head-to-head with Pusha, Meek Mill and Common, while Lamar is entering unfamiliar territory. Battling is playing into Drake’s hands and is his arena, and he thrives when competition arrives at his doorstep.

On “Push Ups,” Drake notes the challenges he’s facing, aware that he’s outnumbered, rapping: “What the fuck is this, a 20-v-1, n—a?” First, Ross pledged his allegiance to Team Metro & Kendrick when he filmed himself playing “Like That” on social media upon its release. Drake caught wind and fired back on “Push Ups,” rapping: “Can’t believe he jumpin’ in, this n—a turnin’ fifty/ Every song that made it on the chart, he got from Drizzy.” Since then, Ross has issued his shots on “Champagne Moments,” and used social media fodder to call out Drake, whether about his alleged nose job or abs.

Same with The Weeknd, who got his punches in on Metro and Future’s We Still Don’t Trust You, singing on “All To Myself”: “They could never diss my brothers, baby/ When they got leaks in they operation/ I thank God that I never signed my life away/ And we never do the big talk/ They shooters makin’ TikToks.” As for Rocky, he dished out his subliminals on “Show of Hands,” where he boasted about allegedly taking Rihanna away from Drake: “N—as in they feelings over women, what, you hurt or somethin”/ I smash before you birthed, son, Flacko hit it first, son.”

Now, knowing that Lamar and friends are rallying together to attack Drake, this earns him a rare amount of public sympathy and makes him look like the underdog for the first time in well over a decade – even though he’s still the biggest star in the entire battle. And if he loses, people will go back to the fact that it took everyone to take down Drake, a la Avengers: Endgame , when an army of superheroes was needed to defeat Thanos.

In reality, the biggest trump card Drake holds is that he’s already gifted each of his foes a key early win in some form. He brought Kendrick and Rocky on tour with him for his Club Paradise Tour in 2012. Ross’ highest-charting records on the Hot 100 came courtesy of a Drake feature. Even Future received the Drake stimulus package at the start of his career when Drizzy hopped on the “Tony Montana (Remix),” while Metro’s first two top 20 Hot 100 records had Drake featured on the songs (“Tuesday” and “Jumpman”). As for The Weeknd, Drake featured him on Take Care , where he brought him into a bigger audience with songs like “Crew Love,” “Over My Dead Body,” and “The Ride.” Hence, Drake can argue that any win for Team Kendrick is also a win for him, since none of these guys would likely be at the levels they currently are if not for his early assists.

The wrestling world has a new champ, but hip-hop’s own title belt is unlikely to change hands anytime soon. While Roman’s empire ended at WrestleMania XL, it’s safe to say Drake’s story will continue on well after his hip-hop civil war.

Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox

Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about?

Get in the know on.

optional screen reader

Charts expand charts menu.

Billboard Hot 100™
Billboard 200™
Hits Of The World™
TikTok Billboard Top 50
Song Breaker
Year-End Charts
Decade-End Charts

Music Expand music menu

R&B/Hip-Hop

Culture Expand culture menu

Media expand media menu, business expand business menu.

Business News
Record Labels
View All Pro

Pro Tools Expand pro-tools menu

Songwriters & Producers
Artist Index
Royalty Calculator
Market Watch
Industry Events Calendar

Billboard Español Expand billboard-espanol menu

Cultura y Entretenimiento

Honda Music Expand honda-music menu

Have Music Festivals Hit Their Peak? A Look at Why Coachella and Other Big Festivals Aren’t Selling Out
Hipgnosis Bidding War Heats Up! Concord Ups Its Offer Against Blackstone to $1.51 Billion
It’s Official: The TikTok Ban Bill Has Been Signed Into Law by President Biden — Let the Legal Battle Begin
Where Will You Stand After the TikTok Ban? DMN Pro Subscribers Already Have a Handle On This Question
Spotify Stock (NYSE: SPOT) Returns to Earth Following Post-Earnings Surge — But Where Will Shares Go from Here?
How Much Artists Make Per Stream on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, YouTube, Pandora, More

papers-wal_172619-pixabay750

All the details you might have missed in Taylor Swift and Post Malone's 'Fortnight' music video

Taylor Swift has released the music video for the lead single from "The Tortured Poets Department."
Swift and her collaborator on the song, Post Malone, star in the video, alongside some famous faces.
Swift has described the video as "the perfect visual representation" of her new album.

Taylor Swift released a new music video on Friday for "Fortnight," her collaboration with Post Malone , which serves as the opening track of her latest album, " The Tortured Poets Department ."

The 4-minute video, directed by Swift and shot entirely in black and white — Swift recruited Martin Scorsese's cinematographer of choice, Rodrigo Prieto, for the job once again — sees the pop star move between being locked in a psychiatric hospital to working in a typewriter-filled office and then finally a lab where she undergoes electroshock therapy.

Malone, meanwhile, plays what Swift has called the music video's "tortured tragic hero," who hides his and Swift's past relationship as he shares her torment.

"When I was writing the 'Fortnight' music video, I wanted to show you the worlds I saw in my head that served as the backdrop for making this music," Swift wrote on social media.

"Pretty much everything in it is a metaphor or a reference to one corner of the album or another," she continued. "For me, this video turned out to be the perfect visual representation of this record and the stories I tell in it."

Longtime fans of Swift shouldn't be surprised; the record-breaking singer-songwriter has always hidden winks, callbacks, and thematic parallels in her songs and videos.

Here's a full breakdown of some details you might have missed in the music video for " Fortnight ."

Swift wears a white dress that looks a lot like the one she wore to the 2024 Grammys.

As soon as Swift stepped onto the red carpet at the 2024 Grammys, many immediately began inspecting it closely for potential Easter eggs.

Little did we know it would be an Easter egg itself.

While the dress doesn't exactly match the one Swift wore on the red carpet, it's possible that it is still a design from Schiaparelli, the fashion house behind the Grammy's dress. Like Swift's dress, the Schiaparelli gown Natasha Lyonne wore to the Golden Globes featured an exaggerated neckline .

With its garter, the dress could also be a wedding gown. There are references to marriage throughout Swift's new album.

"At dinner you take my ring off my middle finger and put it on the one people put wedding rings on, and that's the closest I've come to my heart exploding," Swift sings in the title track "The Tortured Poets Department."

The marriage topic also appears in "So Long, London," "But Daddy I Love Him," "Fresh Out The Slammer," "loml," "imgonnagetyouback," and "The Manuscript."

In the next scene, Swift is seen in a Victorian-era mourning dress.

After we see her dressed as a bride, Swift walks through a door and into an office where she's dressed in a Victorian-esque mourning dress. This change reflects the song's message about losing a great love and being unable to move on.

This style of dress Swift was popular during the 63-year reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901), who set the standard by wearing black for more than 33 years after she lost her husband, Prince Albert.

As the blog Million Graves noted, wearing black "allowed our ancestors to let the world know that grief was in their hearts without them having to say a word."

Swift also nods to her affinity with the Victorian era on "I Hate It Here," one of the bonus tracks for "The Tortured Poets Department," in which she sings about her desire to escape the modern age.

"My friends used to play a game where we would pick a decade we wished we could live in instead of this/ I'd say the 1830s but without all the racists and getting married off for the highest bid."

The numbers on the pill bottles refer to Swift's birthdate and the release of "The Tortured Poets Department."

"I took the miracle move-on drug, the effects were temporary," Swift sings at this point in the video as she acquiesces and swallows one of the pills.

The dates —12/13/1989 and 04/19/2024 — suggest that Swift's character has literally loved this person her whole life.

Swift resembles silent film star Clara Bow, whom she pays homage to on the album's closing track.

When we first see Swift in the "Fortnight" video, she is styled to resemble a 1920s screen siren with her thin, drawn-on eyebrows and bobby-pinned hair. She's also wearing a ribbon choker, a popular trend among flapper girls of the 1920s.

The iconic actor who popularised the flapper girl look in Hollywood was Clara Bow , whom Swift named the final track of "The Tortured Poets Department" after.

Swift appears to be signaling an affinity with the original "It" girl who captured the public's attention (and came under its scrutiny) who once astutely said of the persona she had created: "All the time the flapper is laughing and dancing, there's a feeling of tragedy underneath, she's unhappy and disillusioned, and that's what people sense."

When Swift wipes her face, she reveals several facial tattoos. They are identical to Malone's real tattoos.

Malone is well known for his inked visage and has at least 14 tattoos covering his face.

Later in the video, Malone is seen without his tattoos.

The facial inversion image — Swift with the tattoos and Malone without — is perhaps a way to show audiences that the two lovers are one and the same.

Swift has previously alluded to this kind of relationship, singing about her and her love's "twin fire signs" in the song "State Of Grace."

There is a fountain pen on the desk next to Swift's typewriter.

Swift once explained that she mentally categorizes her songs into three categories based on the kind of pen she imagines writing them with quill pen lyrics, fountain pen lyrics, and glitter gel pen lyrics.

Swift explained what falls under the category of fountain pen lyrics, telling Apple Music listeners in a voice note that they are "modern, personal stories written like poetry about those moments you remember all too well where you can see, hear, and feel everything in screaming detail."

It's likely clear to everyone who has listened that "The Tortured Poets Department" is an album written almost exclusively with a fountain pen.

Ethan Hawke and Josh Charles play the doctors in a fun nod to the similarity between the name of her album and their 1989 film, "Dead Poets Society."

When Swift first announced that her 11th studio album was called "The Tortured Poets Department," comparisons between the name and that of the film released in 1989 ( famously the same year Swift was born ) were made.

While it doesn't seem as if the film directly influenced the record, Swift has decided to lean into the jokes by casting two of the film's stars for the video: Ethan Hawke and Josh Charles.

"Tortured poets, meet your colleagues from down the hall, the dead poets," Swift wrote of her decision to cast the two actors.

Moreover, from their labcoats seen in a behind-the-scenes photo Swift shared on Instagram, it appears Hawke and Charles are playing older versions of their "Dead Poets Society" characters.

Swift and Malone are seen reading "The Story Of Us."

Swift's character is seen reading to Malone from a notebook with the word "US" written on the back.

It is a reference to Swift's heartbreak ballad " The Story Of Us " from her 2010 album, " Speak Now ."

The song served as the fourth single from that album and began getting promoted on April 19, 2011 — exactly 13 years ago, when Swift released "The Tortured Poets Department" and the "Fortnight" music video.

A black dog runs across the screen as Swift undergoes treatment.

"The Black Dog" is the name of one of the bonus tracks that appears on "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology" and on a special variant of the album that was promoted before its release.

While the song "The Black Dog" in question is actually a London-based bar where Swift discovers an old flame has taken their new lover, Swift plays with the metaphor behind the phrase here.

Originally found in English folklore, black dogs are generally considered sinister or malevolent. They have come to be regarded as a symbolic representation of melancholy or depression in modern times.

Swift's polygraph reveals the truth she keeps singing in the chorus.

"I love you, it's ruining my life," Swift and Malone hypnotically harmonize as the song's repeated refrain.

The phrase is picked up and scribbled out on the polygraph, a machine commonly known as a lie detector test.

Lastly, Swift features illustrations of cats and a ball of yarn in the video's end card.

"The Tortured Poets Department" may be Swift exploring the darker sides of fame and relationships, but she remains one of the world's foremost cat ladies.

Would it really be a Taylor Swift video without at least one Easter egg about her beloved feline friends?

Main content

IMAGES

Music Business Courses
001 Musicopenhandedessay Phpapp02 Thumbnail Essay Example On ~ Thatsnotus
004 Musicessay Jazz Phpapp01 Thumbnail Music Essay ~ Thatsnotus
How to Write a Music Essay: Topics and Examples
Essay Writing for Music
The Influence of Surroundings on Our Musical Taste Free Essay Example

VIDEO

ESSAY (ESSAY)
Life Along the Loop: Local business key to music students' success
Music Essay ||300-400 words essay||Music Essay in English.LLB 5 years|Sajid Ali Khan
Being an Entrepreneur
Deep Essay (feat. Wool)
Why The Music Industry is About To Change Forever…

COMMENTS

The Music Industry
The industry is among the many that have endured the most of technological and social changes in the last three decades. The forces of globalization have changed for good how people access, use, and distribute music. In addition, there are very powerful forces in the music supply chain that will influence the music industry at least in the near ...
How to Write a Music Essay: Topics and Examples
The music essay titles below can inspire you to write a captivating essay: How music can be used to promote cultural awareness and understanding. The benefits of music education in promoting creativity and innovation. The social benefits of participating in music groups. The Impact of Music on Memory and Learning.
267 Music Essay Topics + Writing Guide [2024 Update]
Get 267 great music essay topics & ideas. Learn how to write an awesome ★ argumentative or persuasive essay about music 🎵 from this article! Get 267 great music essay topics & ideas. ... In the increasingly complex music business, this is not an easy task. Is social media efficient for promotion? Almost every modern artist uses social ...
How Does the Music Industry Work? A 10-Part Guide
9. Legal. 10. Audience & Fan Attention. Major artists work with dozens of partners as they tour around the world, release singles, videos and albums, make appearances, sell merch and promote their music and shows. Large careers need large teams to maintain them. The teams of developing acts are usually much, much smaller, but someone still has ...
The Music Industry in an Age of Digital Distribution
The Music Industry in an Age of Digital Distribution. In 1999 the global recorded music industry had experienced a period of growth that had lasted for almost a quarter of a century. Approximately one billion records were sold worldwide in 1974, and by the end of the century, the number of records sold was more than three times as high. At the ...
How to Write a Great College Essay About Music (with examples)
Key Takeaway. When writing a college essay about music, it's important to avoid cliches and approach the topic in a deeply personal and meaningful way. Whether you focus on music as an academic interest or a significant extracurricular, you should show off your intellectual spark or personal strengths. Ask any admissions officer if they've ...
Music Industry Essay Topics
The essay topics in this lesson are designed to encourage your students to research and explore the music industry as well as to offer personal opinions on music industry topics. Feel free to ...
Music in business and management studies: a systematic literature
Music is the background of life, representing an international language that connects different cultures. It is also significant with respect to economies, markets, and businesses. The literature in the music field has identified several issues related to the role of digitalization in the revolution of music, the distribution of music products, the management and organization of music events ...
PDF Music in business and management studies: a systematic ...
A systematic literature review (SLR) was chosen as the methodology for this study for two main reasons. First, the research questions concern a specific field (i.e., music in business studies). Second, an SLR can ensure a greater degree of objec-tivity compared with other kinds of literature reviews (e.g., narrative).
140 Music Essay Topics: Exploring the Harmonious World of Music
2 List of Topics about Music for an Essay - 40 words. 2.1 Argumentative Essay Topics about Music. 2.2 Topics for College Essays about Music. 2.3 Controversial Topics in Music. 2.4 Classical Music Essay Topics. 2.5 Jazz Music Essay Topics. 2.6 Rock and Pop Music Essay Topics. 2.7 Persuasive Essay Topics about Music.
111 Music Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect people from all walks of life. Whether you are a music student looking for essay topics, or simply someone who is passionate about music and wants to explore different aspects of it, we have compiled a list of 111 music essay topic ideas and examples to help you get started.
PDF Music Business Argumentative Essay
Music Business by Jacob Carter The music industry is in the midst of a large upheaval. In decades past, artists made money through physical sales of records, CDs, and ... Your response should be in the form of a multiparagraph essay. Write your response in the space provided.
Music Industry Essay
Music has always been an important part of our society since the beginning of time. After years of discovering new styles and rhythms an industry began to form. This industry, known as the music industry, has been growing and thriving drastically for many decades. However, over the past few years, there has been a noticeable drop in profit.
How to Apply
1. Prepare Your Application. Résumé/CV. You are required to upload a copy of your most recent résumé or curriculum vitae as part of your application. Music Business Essay. This requirement is for Fall 2024 applicants. New requirements and the essay topic will change for future semesters.
Music business essay
This work, titled "Music business essay" was written and willingly shared by a fellow student. This sample can be utilized as a research and reference resource to aid in the writing of your own work. Any use of the work that does not include an appropriate citation is banned.
Essays on Music Industry
Music education is beneficial to children because it promotes stronger teamwork, gives a boost of self esteem, and creates smarter students. The first section of this essay will show how musicians have higher self-esteem and self confidence - which is helpful when in society of... Music Industry. 14.
431 Music Essay Topics & Ideas
Music essay topics explore diverse areas of music for academic or personal writing. This comprehensive collection of ideas encourages intellectual curiosity with topics ranging from historical musicology to contemporary pop culture. It also offers thematic ideas, like examining musical elements, understanding music's societal influences, or ...
Essay On Music Business Practices
Essay On Music Business Practices. The future of the music industry is currently undetermined as the technological development brought significant changes to the traditional music business environment and consequently the new music business practices are to be developed. The Australian music market is one of the largest in the world, being the ...
Essay on Music for Students and Children
500+ Words Essay on Music. Music is a vital part of different moments of human life. It spreads happiness and joy in a person's life. Music is the soul of life and gives immense peace to us. In the words of William Shakespeare, "If music is the food of love, play on, Give me excess of it; that surfeiting, The appetite may sicken, and so die
G Eazy Hip Hop Culture
Essay Example: Gerald Earl Gillum, widely known by his stage name G-Eazy, is a prominent figure in the world of American hip hop. Born on May 24, 1989, in Oakland, California, G-Eazy has carved a niche for himself in the music industry with his distinctive style and charisma. His journey from
Music Business Management Essay
2. Publishing. (a) The manager is paid only on songs recorded and released during the term. This is best for the artiste. (b) The manager gets half commission on songs recorded after the term. Agents usually operate somewhere between the artist (or the artist's manager) and the promoter.
Media Essays
Essay Writing Service. Over the last ten years album sales have been in freefall all over the world. The 10% drop in the UK over the past year is dwarfed by a 15% slide in the US, 25% in France and 35% in Canada. The bankruptcy this summer of the CD retail chain Fopp, HMV's announcement that its profits halved in the first six months of this ...
MUSI20206
Show 5 more documents. Show all 13 documents... Studying MUSI20206 The Business of Music at University of Melbourne? On Studocu you will find 18 lecture notes, 14 assignments, 14 essays and much more for MUSI20206.
Drake Versus Kendrick Lamar & The Industry: Why He's Already Won
While Kendrick's verse on Metro Boomin and Future's "Like That" reverberated the hip-hop space, Drake fired back and looks to take control over a war he's probably already won. By Carl Lamarre. 04 ...
papers-wal_172619-pixabay750
Why Are Music Industry Contracts So Complicated? Flou Has a Platform for That ... Latin Music Recorded Revenue Approached $1.4 Billion in the U.S. Last Year Amid Double-Digit Streaming Growth ...
Taylor Swift's 'Fortnight': the Details You Might Have Missed in Video
Taylor Swift released a new music video on Friday for "Fortnight," her collaboration with Post Malone, which serves as the opening track of her latest album, " The Tortured Poets Department ." The ...