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.