The Truth About the Music Business: What Every Artist Needs to Know Before They Sign a Record Deal

By: Chris Greenwood

Narrated by: Chris Greenwood

Before you start reaching out to labels, you have to get clear on what you want from a prospective deal. You also have to understand what partnering with a label can do for you - and what it can’t. That way, when you’re offered an opportunity you’ll be able to advance towards your dream from a truly informed place. If you’re offered a deal and what you want isn’t included - you’ll now know how to ask for it, or you’ll have the confidence to walk away.

As the artist Manafest, Chris Greenwood has sold hundreds of thousands of albums and millions of singles worldwide. With a career spanning over 20 years, he’s got the awards - and the scars - to prove it.

Starting out alone and then getting signed to a prominent US label, Chris learnt the hard way that a record deal isn’t always the dream you think it will be, and it’s not the only route to international fame and fortune.

Now proudly independent again, Chris is in a unique position to offer his perspective on both sides of the story. He understands the opportunities a great record deal can bring, and he knows how to forge an incredible and fulfilling career without one.

And he’s sharing it all in this audiobook.

Expect insider insights, expert advice, lessons learnt, and practical suggestions you can use right away to accelerate your journey and demystify the world of record deals.

Some of the topics covered:

• The pros and cons of being signed...and the risks and rewards of going it alone
• What record labels are looking for in an artist
• What you need to do to give yourself the best chance of being offered a deal
• How to send your demo off - and get a response
• Understanding the terms of a contract
• How to negotiate the highest advance and best deal possible
• Walking out if a deal you’re being offered is the right one for you

This is an audiobook to empower you on your journey to sharing your music with the world - whether you learn how to strike a dynamite deal to do that, or choose to create your own label by treading the independent path.

©2022 Chris Greenwood (P)2022 Chris Greenwood

Eye-Opening Insights for Independent Artists.

As an independent artist navigating the music industry, I recently listened to "The Truth About the Music Business" by Chris Greenwood, and it has been a game-changer for me. After being part of bands signed to record labels in the past, I recently embarked on a solo career and was initially overwhelmed with the challenges of going independent. However, Chris's audiobook provided me with a fresh perspective and a newfound sense of hope and optimism.

The audiobook sheds light on the reality of record deals and the importance of being well-prepared before signing any contracts. Chris's insights and advice helped me realize that while a record label may offer some benefits, it's not a guaranteed solution to all my challenges as an independent artist. He emphasizes the need to do thorough research, be knowledgeable about the business aspects of the industry, and have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of working with a record label.

What I found most valuable about this audiobook is Chris's emphasis on being proactive and taking charge of one's own music career. He empowers artists to be informed, strategic, and diligent in their approach to navigating the industry. The audiobook also provides practical tips on marketing, promotion, networking, and building a team, which I found incredibly helpful as I venture into releasing singles and working towards my first album as an independent artist.

Listening to Chris's audiobook has been a wake-up call for me, making me realize that the live of success I'm aspiring for in the music industry requires more than just relying on a record label. It has given me a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to take control of my own destiny and make informed decisions that align with my artistic vision and goals.

"The Truth About the Music Business" is a must-listen for any independent artist looking to understand the realities of the music industry and make informed decisions about their career. Chris's insights are eye-opening, practical, and empowering, and I am grateful for the valuable lessons I've learned from this audiobook. I plan to listen to it again, take notes, and apply Chris's advice as I embark on my journey as an independent artist. Thank you, Chris, for sharing your wisdom, and I look forward to the possibility of chatting with you someday soon.

Wow GREAT information!!

This book has so much amazing information for musicians starting out and trying to get their footing in the music business! The author has been around the block and shares personal stories and learnings from his own journey, which I found to be super interesting and helpful. Thank you so much!!

Don't sign a record deal before reading this

I love how he draws from his own successful career and personal experiences. What sets this book apart is Greenwood's unique perspective, having experienced both the highs and lows of being signed to a prominent US label and then choosing to become independent once again. He understands firsthand that a record deal isn't always the golden ticket to success and that there are alternative paths to achieve international recognition and fulfillment. He provides insider insights and practical suggestions that artists can implement immediately to accelerate their journey.

This really is what all artists need to know

It’s incredible to me the amount of things you learn just through experience. Having zero knowledge of the music industry or having very little knowledge is not something you want when going into a record label or when becoming an independent artist. Always being aware of what can happen and having the knowledge necessary will only set you up for success. The added bonus’ throughout the book were a nice added touch and the author did a great job giving tips and tricks from his own experience. Great book

You NEED this book if you're a baby Artist!

Chris has done it again with another great book about the music industry. he touches on the pros and cons of going independent & signing with a label. i have read both the original book & the audiobook! i highly recommend both as it is a phenomenal expierence when paired together. i loved that he wrote this for inspiring artists just starting out. it of course is written in parts and you're going to love this: it has his backstory on his own adventures of getting signed AND when he started doing music without a label. i especially found the book insightful and the whole thing is not only really educational but also entertaining with added quotes and bold titles. i also enjoyed the photos in this book as well.
you can't go wrong with this book, and i wish you the greatest luck if you use this book to help you follow your dreams because that's what this book can do for you. Thanks for writing this Amazing book dude! you rock!

This book tells the truth

I really enjoyed reading this book. I think ever person who wants to be in the music business should really read this book first. People don't realize that it's better to do everything yourself then sign with A record company. Then you would see what you really suppose and you will have A better outcome.

So much I didn't know

I bought this book for my nephew who is very keen on taking his band to the next level. He loved it! There is so much we didn't know! Literally, every chapter was filled with guidance to help prepare you to enter into the music business. I really appreciate the chapter on persistence which I think is necessary, especially for my nephew who is prone to giving up. The bonus at the end on how to capture your audience is invaluable too. I enjoyed developing my understanding just out of curiosity, although I would highly recommend this to those wanting to get into the music business - A grade information!

A true expert point of view.

I know the author speaks from a position of real authority. He's been through it. Or he's been near it! And his interpretation is priceless. I also loved the narrator. You are going to learn so much practical stuff from this audiobook; it's going to really change people's careers. That's exciting.

A must listen for anyone in the industry!

This book is chock-full of super insightful secrets in the industry. Let me tell you from personal experience, its not the easiest field to target a career, but if you can make it in the music industry it is ever so satisfying.

This book really has the tips and tricks that people usually learned through rough experiences, especially when it comes to dealing with contracts and keeping agents happy.

This is a real must listen!

A must listen before signing record deal!!

This is a must-listen audiobook for any aspiring artist looking to navigate the complex and often murky waters of the music industry. The author, Chris Greenwood, draws on his extensive experience to provide a comprehensive guide on what every artist should know before signing a record deal. The audiobook is well-organized and covers a range of topics, including the basics of the music business, the different types of record deals, and the importance of understanding contract terms.

The author's expertise and engaging narration make it an enjoyable and informative listen. I highly recommend this audiobook to any artist who wants to understand the ins and outs of the music industry and take control of their career. It's a valuable resource that can help aspiring artists avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions that can lead to success.