Customer Reviews

1998 Songwriter's Market (Songwriter's Market, 1998)

5 star:		(1)
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This book as well as many music industry "how to" books list very few (if any) legitimate, credible, honest publishers or record companies. All of the con-artists , crooks and phonies are eager to get listed. While (as you'll notice) the major/successful/legitimate companies and firms decline association with these "how to" books for that reason. Some of the advice is correct but it is not of any help to anyone. It's like saying "anyone can become President, just do the things I say....you'll be in the White House in no time". Artists should be very careful in dealing with many of the outfits listed in these books. I am a singer/songwriter/musician who has been in the business for over 25 years and I've dealt with many of the people listed in these books. One last piece of advice to readers, never, ever pay anyone for anything ! You are the artist, if they do not offer you anything (up front) or at least meet you half-way, run for the hills! Good Luck!

I feel that this book is a good "start" at finding companies for artists to work with. My company will be listed in the next edition actually, but it is definately not the best guide on the market. You can't expect to pay about $20 for the best guide to the industry contacts. It is a good start and does offer some sound advice. Best thing is use your best judgement, rarely are the larger labels listed, although I have seen large indies listed in the book and a few very few of the majors are listed. Nothing beats good ol' fashioned networking at festivals and conferences etc. Not even the high priced $300 a year guides are worth the same as face to face networking.

This is a very comprehensive source of information for songwriters and musicians which could make much better use of cross-referencing. A better compilation of names and addresses, you could not ask for. However, there are a lot of long lists that are difficult to sift through and it left me desperately wanting to see a web page with a search interface.

There is a lot of good information about how to and how NOT to submit your material to various music industry types. They offer good advice and if you follow it, this book significantly increases your chances for success. That's worth the price in my book.

Very,very professional and useful.