Be a Student of Your Industry

It’s very easy to grasp onto ideas and information and allow them to dictate what we do without fully understanding their inherent value, or lack thereof. Like getting information from a well respected source, only to discover that there was a bit of misinformation wrapped up in what you received. While the information itself was good, a portion of it was leading you in a direction which ultimately amounted to wasted time.

Well, while at times this is unavoidable, the best remedy is often wrapped up in this simple statement; “Do your own research.” Being a student of the industry you choose will take you beyond one book, one seminar and one answer to one question. What do you know about the industry you’re in? How current is your knowledge? If the last book you read about the music business was published in 2001, you may have some foundational knowledge, but as of this writing, you are eight years removed from the detailed facts of today.

We know change constantly takes place, but we don’t always know what the changes are or how we are being affected by them until after an error has been brought to our attention, and usually at our own expense. Knowledge applied is the best way to make a great next step. So in all of your getting, get knowledge.

To that end, I offer you some resources which can help you do just that. I love this website: www.MixBooks.com. On this site you will find a large selection of books on a wide variety of music related topics. These topics include:

Recording
Sound advice on recording methods and techniques from the pros. If you’re new to recording or an experienced pro, there are books and instructional DVDs in this category for everyone.

Music Production
A large selection of books on “how to” record, design and produce your music. These books cover everything from using computers and music and producing using large digital consoles. Many books have accompanying instructional DVD videos.

Music Business
Learn the techniques, tricks and tips to be successful in the music business. Books include topics on music business, production, promotion, sound tracks, jingles, finances and much more.

MIDI / Sequencing
Practical applications of MIDI gear: keyboards, sound modules, effect processors, recorders, mixers, triggers and controllers. These books will help you produce more powerful and impressive recordings through a deeper understanding of MIDI and sequencing.

Directories & Buyer’s Guides
Complete and comprehensive directories and guides to the music industry. Includes side by side comparison of products, artists, labels and much more.

DJ / Remix
If you’re just getting started in the DJ field or are bringing pieces of your studio to a live DJ environment, check out these books and DVDs.

DVD / CD Tutorial
Here you’ll find stand alone video tutorials or books that have bonus DVDs and / or CD-ROMs that will assist you in the learning process. Most DVDs include some type of video tutorial, bonus materials, software or plug-in.

Another great resource is www.Taxi.com. Taxi helps independent artists, songwriters and composers get record, publishing and film / TV deals. It is worth the time to take a look. The very best chance you will have for success will come by way of the effective application of knowledge. Get some and make moves.

Wisdom from the Grind: Be a student of your industry!