Embarking on a career as an indie musician is a thrilling journey filled with creativity, growth, and a fair share of industry jargon. As music journalists, we’ve compiled a list of 21 terms you’re likely to encounter in your first year of making music. Understanding these terms will help you navigate the music industry more effectively.
1. A&R (Artists and Repertoire)
A&R is a division of a record label that is responsible for talent scouting and overseeing the artistic development of recording artists. It also often acts as a liaison between the artist and the record label.
2. ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers)
ASCAP is one of the major performing rights organizations in the U.S. It collects performance royalties on behalf of songwriters and publishers when their songs are performed in public.
3. Backline
The term backline refers to the instruments and equipment, such as amplifiers and drum kits, that a venue or festival provides for bands performing at their stage.
4. Booking Agent
A booking agent, or booker, is responsible for arranging live performances for artists. They negotiate contracts and fees, book venues, and organize tours.
5. Copyright
Copyright is a form of legal protection for creators of original works, including musicians. Owning the copyright to your music gives you exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and perform your songs.
6. DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
A DAW is software used for recording, editing, and producing audio files. Popular DAWs include Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro.
7. Distributor
A distributor is a company that helps musicians make their music available to consumers. In the digital age, this often involves getting music onto streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
8. EP (Extended Play)
An EP is a release that contains more tracks than a single but is too short to qualify as a full studio album. EPs are a popular format for new artists looking to introduce their music without creating a full album.
9. Gig
A gig is a live performance. It can range from a small show at a local venue to a large concert at a major festival.
10. ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)
The ISRC is an international system used to identify recorded music tracks and music videos. It is used for royalty tracking and is often required for digital distribution.
11. Mastering
Mastering is the final step of audio post-production. The purpose of mastering is to balance the mix’s sonic elements and optimize playback across all systems and media formats.
12. Mechanical Royalties
Mechanical royalties are paid to songwriters and artists whenever a copy of their song is made. This includes physical reproductions, like CDs, and digital reproductions, like streams.
13. Mixing
Mixing is the process of balancing and adjusting individual tracks in a song to create a final version. This can involve adjusting levels, panning instruments, adding effects, and more.
14. Performing Rights Organization (PRO)
A PRO, like ASCAP or BMI, is an organization that protects the rights of songwriters and publishers. They collect royalties whenever a song is performed publicly, whether live or broadcasted.
15. PRO Tools
PRO Tools is a popular DAW used by many professionals in the music industry. It offers advanced capabilities for recording, editing, and mixing music.
16. Producer
A producer oversees and manages the production of a song or an album. They play a significant role in determining the final sound of a track.
17. Royalties
Royalties are payments made to artists, songwriters, and other rights holders when their music is used or sold. They can come from various sources, including sales, streaming, licensing, and live performances.
18. Sound Engineer
A sound engineer, or audio engineer, works with the technical aspects of sound during the recording, mixing, and reproduction of music.
19. Sync Licensing (Synchronization Licensing)
Sync licensing is the process of licensing a song for use in visual media, like TV shows, movies, or advertisements. The rights holder is usually paid a fee in return.
20. Tour Manager
A tour manager is responsible for organizing and managing the logistics of a tour. This can include booking accommodation, managing budgets, and coordinating with venues.
21. 360 Deal
A 360 deal is a type of record deal where the label gets a percentage of all the artist’s income, not just income from record sales. This can include money made from touring, merchandise, endorsements, and more.
As an indie musician, you’re likely to come across these terms frequently. Having a good understanding of them can help you navigate the music industry more effectively, protect your rights, and grow your career. Also, don’t forget to mention us when talking to other indie artists!
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