David Byrne's Survival Strategies for Artists

There is a fantastic, informative article in the current issue of Wired (16.01) written by David Byrne, the former leader of the band The Talking Heads. David does a great job of providing perspective (by an established artist) on the changes that are taking place in the music business in recent years that allow artists to be more empowered, and to take charge of their careers and their revenue streams in more ways than ever. Much of what has happened is a result of new technologies that allow for more direct distribution and closer connection between artists and their fans. And of course how artists operate moving forward as a result of the transitions taking place with labels -- and the re-framing going on in the label/artist relationship. His article goes deep on the economics that are afoot and a "then and now" analysis; he also includes terrific charts conveying these shifts visually. The article also features a series of MP3s that are candid discussions he has with artists and key industry figures who offer thoughtful insights.

Here's an example of one of David's recommendations (one I had shared in a previous blog entry; I'm in agreement with virtually all of what he's written in this piece):

"I would personally advise artists to hold on to their publishing rights (well, as much of them as they can). Publishing royalties are how you get paid if someone covers, samples, or licenses your song for a movie or commercial. This, for a songwriter, is your pension plan."

Overall, he's spot on -- and this piece is one that all artists should read (whatever the phase of their career).