“The book includes information beyond what one would find in Donald S. Passman’s longstanding industry bible “All You Need to Know About the Music Business.” The pair addresses topics ranging from backstage etiquette to managing social media to dealing with record labels and publishing companies. They hope that it will provide a blueprint for bands old and new to better navigate music’s notoriously choppy waters. Their accessible, snack-size chapters move fluidly as they explain the realities artists face in 2026.” – Daniel Kohn, Los Angeles Times
“This (book) is a must for anyone doing the music thing, but honestly great reading for anyone doing the life thing too. Bravo!” – Cory Murchy, Minus The Bear
“Perhaps the most comprehensive guide that I’ve read when it comes to being a DIY musician in 2026.” – Scott Crawford, Filmmaker
Released in conjunction with the new Soft Palms record In Echo, How To Be Self-Reliant In The Music Business is a book about what we’ve learned during our lives in music. It’s an essential read for DIY musicians and gives practical advice about the business, the lifestyle, etiquette, tour, recording, music royalties and much more.
NOW AVAILBLE IN PAPERBACK AND AUDIOBOOK!
THE ROYALTIES CHAPTER IS FREE FOR ALL.
No book can teach you everything you need to know, especially about being a musician, but reading this will save you time, money, stress and heartache.
How To Be Self-Reliant In The Music Business is a synopsis of everything we have learned in the last 20 years while writing, performing, recording, touring, managing business relationships, and booking a music festival. Everything mentioned in this book took us years to understand and will give the reader a huge advantage while pursuing their career in music.
NO AI WAS USED IN THE CREATION OF THIS BOOK
