The Plain and Simple Guide to Music Publishing | 5th Edition
About
Gain a clear understanding of how music publishing works with this detailed and accessible guide. Perfect for songwriters, performers, producers, and educators, this comprehensive book breaks down the business side of music in practical, easy-to-follow language. It is ideal for musicians who want to protect their work, manage royalties, or confidently navigate contracts and licensing.
Comprehensive and Up-to-Date Coverage: This fifth edition explains every major aspect of music publishing, from copyright ownership and mechanical rights to synchronization licensing, performance royalties, and sub-publishing. Each chapter simplifies complex legal and financial concepts into everyday terms, allowing creative professionals to focus on building sustainable music careers with confidence.
A Practical Guide for Independent Artists and Professionals: Written by a leading music business authority, this book provides real-world insight and professional advice based on decades of industry experience. Readers will learn how deals are structured, how to collect royalties efficiently, and how to identify fair representation in publishing and administration agreements. The clear structure and updated examples make it a valuable reference for both students and experienced musicians.
Essential Learning Tool and Gift for Musicians: Featuring a foreword by Tom Petty, this trusted resource serves as an indispensable addition to any musicians library. Its straightforward explanations and reliable information make it perfect for classroom instruction, professional development, or self-study. A thoughtful gift for anyone pursuing a career in the music business or seeking to understand the financial side of creativity.
Praise for this book
"An Essential Guide for Songwriters and Music Professionals
The Plain & Simple Guide to Music Publishing by Randall D. Wixen makes a complicated side of the music business remarkably easy to understand. The book clearly explains important topics such as music copyrights, publishing rights, royalties, and protecting your work without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary jargon.
What makes this guide especially valuable is its practical, straightforward approach. It gives songwriters, artists, producers, and aspiring music professionals the foundational knowledge they need to make informed decisions and avoid common mistakes. The explanations are accessible enough for beginners while still offering useful insights for those already working in the industry.
This is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to better understand how songs generate income and why protecting creative ownership matters. Informative, well organized, and genuinely useful—I highly recommend it to anyone pursuing a career in music."