What is going on in the Music Industry?

Thoughts by: B. Brown (BREG)

Do you know what's going on in the music industry right now?

Let me attempt to enlighten you. I receive phone calls and emails frequently from aspiring artists, producers, etc. that basically want something for nothing. Even though I have been in business since 1994, the year I graduated from college, it still amazes me that people in general believe that just because they have talent or some kind of skill that other people are supposed to just throw money at them and that they are the best thing since slice bread! Utterly amazing!

My upbringing and thought pattern has brought me to the theory that we as individuals must first invest in ourselves and as we are developing, working and growing as business people, artists or whatever, we are going to attract the resources that we need to continue to move forward in our businesses and careers. Being knowledgeable about what business you are in is very essential and I have found out too many times that individuals coming into the music industry do not take the time or even want to learn about the business side of things which is amazing because the business side of things is the only way that a person will ever get paid! Look at the % of NFL Players that are financially strapped only 2-years after they have finished playing, it's a whopping 78%. That's ridiculous, but sadly true. Look at the incredible amount of Artists that have actually had hit records and have absolutely nothing to show for it but a plaque, if they still have that. My point is ladies and gentleman is that before you embark on this music journey, research the business, meet with industry veterans to gain insight & perfect your craft! These things won't guarantee great success, but they will get you headed in the right direction. At this time you must understand that if you do sign with a major label or even an independent that is strong, they are going to sign you to a "360 Deal" which means that they are going to not only receive revenue from your music sales, they will get a % of your tour/show money, merchandise, etc. Is this a bad thing, I don't know, but it is definitely changing the landscape of the music industry and you have to be aware of it!

The industry is in a state of flux right now because a lot of major label artists are not selling major units any more and ring tones and digital downloads are steadily increasing as the preferred mode of hearing and buying music. Today is National Independent Record Day and I am very happy about that. Here in Atlanta, GA, our SECUR Network of Independent Stores have been around for a long time and they continue you to serve our communities around Metro Atlanta. Big ups to Tobago & Junie at DBS Sounds! I must also shout out North Georgia Compact Disc & Super Sounds! If you are in Atlanta, visit one of these stores and buy some new hot music! There will be free food, special guests, giveaways & more! You may visit http://www.recordstoreday.com for more information.

Much love to the Bar-Red Entertainment Group family: *managed artists - Lady X, Magnem P.I., Jay L, & Big Troy