MUSC 10800 - Backstage Pass: Unlocking The Music Business

This course offers a deep dive into the music industry, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s structure, operations, and challenges. Students will learn industry history, the intricacies of record deals, how to get a copyright, the dynamics of touring and merchandising, and gain practical knowledge and insights. The course is designed for those interested in the music industry.

Cr. 3.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Recognize and Describe the Evolution of the Music Industry (4.6.1, 4.6.3): Students will trace the development of the music industry from the early 20th century to the present day, identifying key artistic and technological milestones and their impact on industry practices and culture.
2. Analyze Music Industry Contracts and Legal Structures (4.6.2, 4.6.4): Students will critically examine the structure of record deals and music industry agreements, analyzing how key terms and contract negotiations shape the careers and artistic freedom of performers.
3. Evaluate Copyright Law in Cultural and Historical Contexts (4.6.3, 4.6.7): Students will assess the evolution of copyright law, understanding its implications for artistic expression, intellectual property, and the broader cultural landscape of the music industry.
4. Interpret Revenue Models in the Music Industry (4.6.2, 4.6.6): Students will explore various revenue streams within the music business “live performances, publishing, royalties, and merchandising” interpreting their relevance in different cultural and temporal contexts.
5. Apply Analytical Skills to Royalty Calculations (4.6.5): Through hands-on activities, students will calculate music royalties, demonstrating their ability to apply mathematical concepts to solve industry-specific financial problems.
6. Analyze the Role of Live Performance in Artistic Expression (4.6.4, 4.6.5): Students will explore how touring, merchandising, and live music performance contribute to both the artistic identity of musicians and their commercial success, engaging in critical discussions and evaluations of these practices.
7. Develop Critical Arguments on the Future of the Music Industry (4.6.6, 4.6.7): Through a final research paper, students will analyze past and current industry trends and revenue models, developing arguments about the future of income generation and artistic expression in the ever-evolving music business.