Definitive in scope and written specifically for musicians and songwriters by top professionals currently working in the industry, this book demystifies the music business and the indecipherable body of law which shapes it, and provides substantive information on "actual practices"--with clause-by-clause commentaries on all major contracts in the industry. Requires no background in law or business and is written in plain English, not "legalese. Includes relevant forms. Follows the typical development of a musician's career--Getting Started, Music as a Business; Protecting Your Compositions; Music Publishing; Performing and Marketing; Managers and Agents; and Recording. Features up-to-date internet-related coverage (including full chapters on "Digital Distribution of Music Over the Internet: Legal Issues; International Copyright Issues;" and "Artist Rights"). An appendix includes names; URL and mailing addresses of major industry associations and organizations; a list of the important industry publications. For musicians.