music business essay

The Music Industry Essay

Introduction, current state of the music industry, current income generation strategies for the music industry, licensing of music to intermediate users, challenges the music industry faces, responses to the problems facing the music industry, reference list.

The music industry is dealing with many issues that are affecting how it operates. The industry is among the many that have endured the most of technological and social changes in the last three decades. The forces of globalization have changed for good how people access, use, and distribute music.

In addition, there are very powerful forces in the music supply chain that will influence the music industry at least in the near term. The industry had many commercialization approaches before the emergence of the internet as a force driving globalization. Some of them remain valid ways of running a career in music but some are becoming obsolete.

The relative ease with which new entrants can make music has reduced in a significant way the barriers to entry. It is no longer enough to be a talented musician to succeed in music. It takes business acumen, intelligence and a keen appreciation of subtle changes in consumer tastes and preferences to keep up with the rapid rate of change in this industry.

This paper will explore the driving forces in the music industry. It will also look at the strategies used in the development and marketing of music, the challenges to the industry and some potential strategies that can help to overcome these challenges.

Scope of the Music Industry

The music industry is a very varied establishment. Understandably, music was not an invention in a lab or a unique cultural element in a specific part of the world. Rather, music evolved in different cultures independently leading to very many classes of music. Even within the same cultures, there were songs for each occasion.

There were songs of celebrations such as when a child was born or when there was something important in the community, and there were songs for funerals and general mourning. Some communities had songs to accompany work while almost all cultures had singing games for children. In this sense, the evolution of music is a human phenomenon that grew with the technological development of each culture.

The emergence of the musician as a career person is also a new development in the world. Advanced cultures allowed people to specialize in music but they often had another trade to make it possible for them to earn a living. Otherwise, music was a community endeavour where all the people took part in singing and dancing.

In last century, mass communication and rapid transit systems made it possible for some people to become career musicians, travelling from town to town to play music for varied audiences. As this art grew in commercial meaning, many other people joined the commercial facets of music to support the careers of popular musicians.

The current scope of the music industry is very large. There are still elements of the traditional sense of music where whole communities participate in singing. This is common in churches and in institutions of worship where the entire audience participates in singing as part of their spiritual expression.

There are also songs that families sing such as during birthdays. Lullabies help children go to sleep. Perhaps the most common expression of communal aspects of music is the singing of national anthems, which every country sings during important national functions. Apart from these expressions of music, there is a fully-fledged commercial music industry. This industry packages music as a product and presents it to a paying audience. This paper will concentrate on this type of music.

Stakeholders in the Music Industry

In order for music industry to function, several stakeholders must cooperate to ensure that a song leaves the music writer’s pad and ends up in the earphones or stereo speakers of a music enthusiast. While the list below describes these stakeholders individually, is common for an individual to play more than one role.

Composer: This is the originator of songs, the person writes the actual words of the songs. This role calls for someone well versed in music to understand musical language, and has the gift or skill of writing songs.

Singers/Musicians: A singer or musician is the person that performs the song because of their ability to sing. Their talent gives them this role. It is not strange to find musicians that write their own songs. In fact, many of the talented musicians that songwriters seek start as their own composers.

Instrumentalists: This category of stakeholders refers to the people that play musical instruments to accompany music. They have a much-reduced role in recorded music especially because of the use of computer-based instrumentals. However, their role in live music is still intact. They are also in demand by instrumental music enthusiasts.

Producers: These are the professionals managing the music production process. They ensure that all necessary factors of music production come together to produce music

Technical personnel: There is a class of technical personnel necessary for the effective recording of music. They include sound engineers and recording technicians. Their role is to manage the technical factors of music production.

Record label companies: Since the advent of the gramophone record, companies came up to profit from the music industry. These companies continue to sign musicians and then support their careers at a fee. In other words, they provide musicians with everything they need to get their music out and then they share the proceeds.

Marketing companies: After the production of music, record label companies hand them over to marketing companies to send the music to the market. Some record label companies own the marketing companies that handle the marketing of the music they produce.

Retail distributors: The final important stakeholder in the music industry is the retail distributors. They make copies of the music available to the eventual consumer.

The stakeholders above represent the music supply chain where the eventual music gets to the consumer via tangible means, in this case, a disc. Other stakeholders benefit from music such as advertisers, movie producers and television companies. The important thing to note is that the industry is very large and the number of stakeholders is very large depending on the supply chain used to market a particular piece of music. For instance, there is no role for a record label company if a band or a musician decides to use concerts and music tours as the only way they distribute their music. On the other hand, they will need other people to support their business model.

An analysis of the music supply chain reveals the fact that the musician is only a small part of the entire process. The process of commercializing a musical production is a very complex business undertaking that needs more than just the musical skills of an artist to succeed.

In the same vein, it is imperative for musicians to have a working knowledge of commercial aspects of the music industry to ensure that they get the most out of their work. There are direct ways and indirect ways that the music industry uses to reach consumers. Direct ways refer to those that aim at reaching the eventual consumer and hence earn revenue from it. Indirect avenues refer to uses of music where the music forms part of the final product, or accompanies another product before reaching the final consumer.

Direct Strategies

This paper classifies indirect strategies used in the distribution of music as concerts, selling of a music bearing product, and thirdly, internet sales of music. These strategies feature actual transfer of the music from the musician to the end user.

Concerts are still a popular method used to earn revenues from music. With the globalization of music, musicians normally have fans in vary vast areas. Many fans of popular musicians have never met of seen their idol performing in person. This makes concerts a very powerful means of facilitating this interaction.

Revenue from concerts comes in different ways depending on the popularity of the musician. For very popular musicians, organizers sell tickets to cover the concert expenses and to pay the artist their performance fees. Some of these organisers use the concerts as a means of making a profit.

They bring in a musician to a local fan base, and organize the concert in such as a way that in the end they have a profit from ticket sales. A musician can also use personal resources to organize the concert and make a profit from it. In situations where the musician needs publicity, a concert can also help to raise the required awareness. In this case, the musician may either meet the cost of the concert as part of their marketing fees, and hope to recover their expenses by selling CDs.

A concert is also a good place to sell merchandise products to fans. A musician may arrange to sell t-shirts, jewellery, shoes and other fashion accessories that carry their brand. If well planned, this method can help meet the costs of organizing the concert. The advantage of converts is that they eliminate the risk of piracy. If a musician uses concerts as the exclusive means of distributing music, then there will be no copies of the music to pirate.

Selling CDs

In the life of the commercial music industry, there has always been a means of conveying music to consumers. While technology has moved from the gramophones to iPods, the principle remains unchanged. Mass commercialization of music took place when the magnetic tape came into existence.

This tape had certain advantages over the gramophone record such as portability. It was possible to carry a number of tapes on a trip using a very tiny carriage space. The walkman was also a revolutionary invention in the development of music. It made music personal. The magnetic tapes introduced the problem of piracy.

Magnetic tapes were erasable and easily reproducible. However, the impact of piracy in the era of the magnetic tape was not as serious as the impact of piracy on CD sales. Original tapes had a superior sound quality and there was a sense of prestige in having original tapes. CD’s do not have the same qualities.

The output quality of a pirated copy can match the original. CDs are still popular nonetheless as a means of selling music. In the late nineties, the success of a musician depended on the number of albums sold, while in the last ten years, the measure of a musician’s success is the number of CDs sold. Outlets for CD sales include local retail stores, bookshops, supermarkets and music stores. In addition, CD sales can form part of the revenue streams for a concert.

Internet Sales

The internet is a new avenue for the distribution of music. With the development of digital versions of music, it is possible to transfer music by digital means. Selling music via the internet has several advantages. First, it eliminates the need to transport music physically to retailers. The consumer simply logs in to a site such as eBay or iTunes and buys music. It is very easy and convenient to pay for music online using one of the many online money vendors. The most popular vendor is PayPal, but a number of competitors exist.

Sales from the internet cut out a number of intermediaries from the music supply chain. It is possible for a musician to pay studio time to record their music, and to make sales online without passing through a record label. The only copy the musician will need is the master copy of the music from the studio.

After that, it is theoretically possible to sell millions of copies of the music at no additional cost, or the need to make physical copies. This method of sales is becoming more attractive even for record labels because it reduces their distribution costs by a very large margin.

The final means through which musicians commercialise their music is by licensing. This refers to selling rights to the music, in whole or in part to a third party for their own use. Since music is an intellectual property, copyright laws protect the composers and the musicians by outlawing the use of the music without the consent of the musician.

The demand for licensing will increase as more and more people selling products online and advertising products through mass broadcast develop the need to piggyback their advertising messages on the music of popular musicians. Clients for licensing include moviemakers, advertising companies, video game makers and producers of television programs. A good example of this method of making money is the use of Celine Dion’s Song, “My heart will go on” in the Movie “Titanic”, produced by James Cameron.

Indirect Strategies

Some musicians have successfully developed merchandises from their music brand. The idea behind making products unrelated to music comes from the realization that a fan base is also a market niche. Developing products that can help fans to identify more with the brand makes the fans feel more attached to the musician.

The products that make successful merchandises are fashion items such as shoes, clothes, armlets, caps, bracelets, necklaces and T-shirts among others. It is feasible to produce perfumes, cosmetics and beauty products as a means of commercializing music. The basis of their success is the strength of the musical brand they represent, and the loyalty their fans have to them.

The music industry has been on the receiving end of both the positive and negative consequences of technological growth. In fact, music makes for a very viable subject when it comes to the study of the impact of technology in the modern world. As music becomes more and more reliant on technology for production and distribution, it is clear that the most significant challenges the industry faces are technology related.

These challenges include piracy, influx of software alternatives to musical instruments, ease of file sharing and file transfer, and the death of the album as a measure of success in the music industry. Another problem related to technological developments is the creation and retention of a fan base.

Piracy in music in its simplest terms refers to the production and sale of illegal copies of music. It does not matter whether it is a single song or a complete album. Piracy is not new in the music industry. Its recognition as a problem came about with the emergence of the magnetic tapes.

Magnetic tapes were easy to reproduce even at the domestic level. However, the real threat came from commercial piracy where people set up entire business systems that made counterfeit copies of music and sold them for profit. Often pirated copies of music had a lower quality compared to the originals hence the market put up some form of resistance against pirated music.

With the advent of digital technologies, it is almost impossible to detect a pirated copy of music from an original one by listening to it. This is making pirated music more acceptable. Moreover, CDs lack the prestige magnetic tapes had.

They are not very good show items. This has led to a lack of attachment comparable to the one that original magnetic tape owners and gramophone records enthusiasts exhibited.

In fact, it is very easy to simply take an original CD and in just a few minutes copy it onto a laptop’s hard disk. Unless new technologies inhibiting the making of digital copies of CDs get widespread use, the problem of piracy will continue to affect the music industry.

The Software Influx

On the creative end, music is suffering from an influx of softwares for use in the production of music. This comes from the fact that it is possible to make a song, complete with beats and instrumentals using a headset and an open source software. It is no longer necessary to learn the art of making music such as playing a musical instrument in order to produce the sound of that instrument.

What a person will learn in three months about playing a guitar, an average computer user with access to a music making software can reproduce within a day. The remaining frontier that computers have not yet conquered is singing. Theoretically speaking it will not be long before it becomes possible to reproduce voices of popular artists or to create fictionalised ones and synthesize their voices into music!

There is a real threat to music as a form of art. The space for creativity is reducing more and more. As people become more accustomed to music made by computers, the sounds of authentic artists playing authentic musical instruments will become strange.

As voices undergo scientific manipulation to perfect them in digital sound studios, there will be lesser recognition for the effort it takes to perfect a singers natural voice. It may not matter anymore.

Ease of File Sharing

Another problem that music faces today because of technological change is the ease of file sharing enabled by the internet. It is true that “Illegal downloading remains to be a continuous challenge for the recording industry”. Once one person in a clique of friends finds an interesting song in digital format, it is then very easy to pass on the song by forwarding the file to their friends.

In the context of social media, it may be hundreds of people in an instant. This whole clique will not need to buy the music thereafter, which wipes out that market. Sharing files is much harder to track especially when the sharing takes place in privately held email accounts. This problem eats into the potential revenue a musician can make from their music.

Death of the Album

The next threat to the development of music is the death of the album. Musicians are working harder to produce near perfect singles rather than committing time to produce full albums. The current distribution systems of music make it easier and more economical to produce a hit single and then go find the next big song rather than sell a whole album to an audience.

In addition to this, people no longer listen to whole albums the old-fashioned way. Rather, they listen to specific songs of interest from different albums. People are listening to music on digital media more and more. Whether it is a CD player, a laptop, a phone or an iPod, a user creates a playlist and listens to the particular songs of interest. Unlike records and magnetic tapes, picking specific songs is not a laborious activity.

The response on the side of musicians has been to provide music in detachable formats hence fuelling this new trend. The problem it posses to music is that it reduces the power of music as a communication tool. The art of producing music albums revolved around the capacity of the musician to produce a set of songs based on a particular theme thereby increasing the communicative value of their music.

Creating and Keeping a Fan Base

Globalization and “increased amateur activity” in the music industry because of the lowering of entry barriers have made it very difficult to develop and retain a fan base. Music markets span the world and are not in specific geographical confines. For a musician to reach such a diverse audience, it calls for a lot of work.

The challenge of raising a fan base also stems from the difficulty of getting through to the fans because of the high number of musicians looking for their attention. Remember, music is not the only input an average music fan receives. It is a constant struggle to keep looking for an appropriate means to find and maintain a fan base.

In order to address the issues facing music, it is important to have certain things in mind. First, there is need to recognize that a successful music career depends on the soundness of the business strategy used to distribute it. The musician needs a source of income, and the most efficient way of making a living is through the music.

A successful musical career requires dedication and focus, which a part time hobby just cannot allow. Secondly, music is essentially an art form. Therefore, the commercial aspects of music do not have the last word on the success of music.

The intrinsic appreciation of music by enthusiasts transcends the challenges that modern music must deal with. In this sense, the technological challenges music faces cannot kill music. However, every musician must find a way of overcoming these challenges.

Using Piracy to Advantage

While piracy imputes illicit gain on the part of the commercial pirate, some concession on the part of the musicians can reduce the impact that piracy has on their careers. For instance, a musician can decide to use pirate networks to build publicity and to grow their fan base.

After all, it is the demand for the music by their fans that makes the music pirates find it attractive to make illicit copies. Even better, if the perceived losses in revenue by the distribution of illicit copies do not outweigh the benefits from the resulting publicity, then it may make sense for a musician to allow their music to pass through pirate channels.

Another safe way of avoiding pirate channels can be the use a business model that does not rely on the digital copies for success. This can include the sale of merchandize to raise funds for the music. If fans know that a musician does not sell their music but instead uses merchandise to pay for its production, they will be supportive of the efforts.

The other way to beat piracy is to release music free of charge for personal use but to position the music as a product for licensing. If the song is popular, them someone will want to use it for their promotional campaigns.

This model will make it easy for the musician to monitor commercial uses of their music and to make money from royalties. Giving out the music without cost will also make the music available to many people thereby growing the fan base.

“Live Music” Tag to Mitigate Software Threat

The threat posed by software will be very difficult to beat. Music lovers are listening to more and more computer generated music that it is only a matter of time before music from real instruments becomes odd. The only way to ensure that the taste for music made from real instruments remains is by providing opportunities for the fans to listen to live band music.

It is possible to use concerts for this purpose. Another method would be to add the label, “made from real Instruments” to such productions to differentiate the music from the rest. This approach will likely create a market niche for music lovers who value the art of making music from real instruments.

Education that File Sharing Constitutes Piracy

After establishing a fan base, it may be necessary to educate fans on the fact that file sharing is as bad as piracy. While a fan does not derive economic value from the copies they share, they deny the musician potential revenue when they share musical files with their friends.

A musician can exercise a certain amount of persuasion over loyal fans hence it makes sense to try to persuade them against sharing files. Moral persuasion is the best tool available for a musician because any other method of dealing with piracy will be very expensive. Policing piracy is a very expensive undertaking, which is difficult even for organised law enforcement agencies.

Letting the Album Die and Creation of Collector Albums

The traditional album seems headed for certain death. However, it is not a trend worth trying to change. This is because the way people listen to music no longer supports music delivered in album format.

From today’s standpoint, it is inconceivable that people will revert to the old ways of listening to music the way magnetic tapes and gramophone records forced them to. They do not have to listen to music sequentially but can choose to shuffle them, skip, or rearrange them in the way they wish.

On the other hand, it may be helpful to sell collections of singles such as the best hits by an artist in the last two years. Just as people no longer look for whole albums, they will only be interested in songs that please them.

Another way of looking at this situation is to consider it a marketing situation where the old way of packaging music does not support current consumption trends. Artists will therefore have the increased burden of planning their songs in a way that they each song stands alone. What should guide them is more of a philosophy rather than a theme when writing their songs.

Use of Social Media to Create and Maintain Fans

The need to raise and maintain a fan base will not become easier with time. The good thing is that technology has solutions to the same problems it has created for the music industry. The difference between a successful musician and a non-starter may well be their social media strategy.

The young generation, who support the emerging music industry, spend a lot of their time on social media platforms. With a good strategy, it is possible to grow a fan base using the tools available there. In fact, a musician today has more opportunities to build and maintain a fan base by adopting existing technologies to do the work that old musicians travelled thousands of miles to do.

Alternative Income Sources

It is incumbent upon musicians to continue thinking about more income streams that they can use to bolster their financial standing. Granted, there is a point where too much commercialization of music can actually kill the art. However, without some kind of income, artists cannot commit themselves fully to the art of making music.

Musicians should do their best to find new ways of utilizing their talent for income. As they do this, record labels also should work hard to find ways of making music available to users at a lower cost and in a manner, which discourages piracy. It is vital to develop CD technologies that will resist duplication. While technically it is very complex to do this, it is vital to find ways of reducing this vice. Piracy is a real vice that threatens the future of music.

The music industry is not exempt from changes in technology. If anything, the music industry bears the brunt historically whenever there are groundbreaking changes in technology. For the music industry to survive beyond this point as a commercial venture, it will need to adapt its systems to fit the current circumstances.

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IvyPanda. (2023, November 30). The Music Industry. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-music-industry/

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Bibliography

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267 Music Essay Topics + Writing Guide [2024 Update]

Your mood leaves a lot to be desired. Everything around you is getting on your nerves. But still, there’s one thing that may save you: music. Just think of all the times you turned on your favorite song, and it lifted your spirits!

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So, why not write about it in a music essay? In this article, you’ll find all the information necessary for this type of assignment:

• 267 brilliant music essay topics,
• a sample paper,
• a step-by-step guide and writing tips.

And don’t forget to bookmark  custom-writing.org  where you can find helpful essay tips in articles like this one.

🔝 Music Essay Topics: Top 10

• 🎵 Music Essay Definition
• 🎼 Essay Topics
• ✍️ How to Write
• 📑 Essay Sample

🔗 References

• Compare different recording formats.
• The purpose of music.
• Ternary and rondo: compare and contrast.
• Music as a lifestyle.
• The benefits of singing.
• Ethnomusicology as a career.
• Evolution of the radio.
• The importance of school musicals.
• Music as a tool for meditation.
• Music in sports.

🎵 Essays about Music: What Are They?

A music essay describes or analyzes a piece of music, its context, or one’s personal attitude towards it. This type of assignment requires a compelling primary argument and a clear structure.

To write well about music, you don’t have to be a professional musician. All you need is to be able to listen, understand, and evaluate it. You should also provide your interpretation and opinion on it.

Writing about Music: Assignment Types

An essay on music is a popular assignment in high school and college. However, many students find it hard to describe sounds in a written form. In this article, we will give you some tips on writing about music.

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Here are the typical tasks that you might receive:

• Concert report. It requires describing the music you’ve heard using as many details and terms as you can.
• Historical analysis of a piece. Your aim is to describe the historical context of a piece or its relation to the historical setting. For this type of assignment, you may need to do some research.
• Song analysis. In this type of essay, you explore song lyrics’ meaning and show how they work together with the melody.
• Performance or media comparison. Here you need to compare several interpretations or performances of one piece of music.

All of these assignments require a different approach and topic. You will find topics for these types of tasks below.

How to Choose a Music Essay Topic

First things first, you need to find a suitable music essay topic. To accomplish this task, you might want to take the following steps:

• Analyze your relationship with music . What role does it play in your life? Your topic choice will be different if you are a musician or merely a listener.
• Think about how music influences your everyday life . For instance, you can study how listening to music affects our mental health. Impressing your readers with some historical facts from the world of music is also a great idea.
• Try reflecting on the role of different music genres in your life . Whether you prefer rap or classical music, exploring a genre is an excellent topic idea. Topics related to musical instruments are also worth attention.
• Narrow your topic down. Otherwise, it will be too difficult to focus your essay on just one idea.

🎼 Music Essay Topics List

The first thing you need to do is to choose your topic. We have prepared a variety of music topics perfect for research papers and short essays. You can also use them for speeches or college application essays.

Argumentative Essay about Music: Topics & Ideas

Argumentative essays about music are usually concerned with a specific music-related issue you choose to address. Just like with any other argumentative essay, you should present both sides of the topic. Also, reliable facts are a must for this type of essay.

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• The influence of modern technologies on the music industry. Technologies allow artists to create and promote their songs independently. Because of this, record labels are less critical to musicians than before. However, the emergence of new technologies also gave rise to piracy . Do the positives outweigh the negatives?
• What’s the effect of pop music on the modern generation? Today’s pop songs are usually commercial . Because of this, some people say that pop has ruined the current generations’ perception of music. Others argue that contemporary pop music expanded the possibilities of the genre.
• Rock music makes people more aggressive . Some consider rock music merely an arrangement of aggressive tunes that foster violence. On the counter side, science has proven that people who prefer rock to other genres are calmer and more concentrated. Which position do you agree with?
• Can people with hearing impairments become famous musicians ? Many believe that access to fame and fortune is limited for disabled people. The deaf may seem especially unsuited for the music business . Yet, the examples of Beethoven, Neil Young, and Chris Martin show that hearing problems don’t have to be an issue.
• Will streaming completely substitute physical copies? Digitalization is on its way to replacing LPs and CDs. For most people, it’s simply more convenient. But their opponents claim that an MP3 file can never sound as good as a physical copy.
• Some music genres can be a catalyst for violence. While their beats may be calm, hip-hop and rap’s lyrics are often aggressive and brutal. Does it have adverse effects on a listener?
• Can a person become addicted to music ?
• Censorship on the radio: why stations shouldn’t bleep out obscenities.
• Is mandatory musical education in high schools practical?
• The impact of Mozart’s music on toddlers.
• Should a musician’s personal life affect people’s perception of their art?
• How susceptible are teenagers to political messages in songs?
• Music influences one’s mental and physical capabilities .
• Are children who listen to music more intelligent than others?
• Music genres are inherently dependent on musical instruments .
• Is music as an art form more popular than cinema ?
• Debate whether rap musicians promote a frivolous and careless lifestyle .
• Many musicians became famous only because they’ve had connections.
• Music festivals are the best form of entertainment.
• Does music always sound better live than on records?
• Is classical music better than modern genres?
• Is it justified that some religions view music as a sin?
• Typically, music defines a culture and its traditions: true or false?
• Rap music has a strong connection to rebellious movements.
• Jamaican music’s link to the stoner lifestyle is unjustified.
• Synesthesia: how is music related to visuals?

Opinion on Music: Essay Topics

Opinion essays about music might seem similar to the argumentative type. Here, you are expected to write your personal opinion on a topic. Naturally, you can have many opinions on musical topics. Why not broadcast them? Keep in mind that you also need to provide reasons for your point of view.

• Music therapy can help people with mental illnesses . It’s a well-known fact that music affects the human brain. This ability makes it perfect for treating mental health problems. On the one hand, psychologists established that listening to classical music increases one’s cognitive capacity . On the other hand, listening to heavy rock impacts responsiveness.
• The questionable treatment of women in the music industry . While it may seem that both sexes are treated equally, women still earn much less than they deserve. Moreover, the extreme sexualization of girls persists as one of the most pressing problems in the industry.
• Which musician or band impacted your worldview ? Discuss what makes your favorite artist special. Consider analyzing their lyrics, genre, and evolution. If you want to, add a review of one of their albums .
• What are the challenges of being an independent artist? Typically, independent artists deal with all the financial, promotional, and distributional affairs by themselves. In the increasingly complex music business, this is not an easy task.
• Is social media efficient for promotion? Almost every modern artist uses social media to promote their albums or songs. Users often check their networks for updates, which increases the musician’s visibility. But do such methods help in the long run?
• Passion is the essential personal quality for every musician . If an artist is not eager to continually produce high-quality output, they’re unlikely to succeed. However, qualities such as responsibility, honesty, hard work, and creativity are also vital.
• Is music good for stress relief?
• How does music connect people ?
• Analyze qualities that good musicians shouldn’t have.
• Who are the most excellent musicians in the country genre ?
• Is it possible to live without interacting with music ?
• Choose three successful rappers and analyze their influence.
• How can a musician become famous without having money or connections?
• What are the difficulties of being in a band ?
• Who impacted the development of indie music the most?
• Is pop music losing its popularity? If so, why?
• Three factors that affected your choice of a favorite genre .
• Which artists are the most prominent in power metal?
• Which record label is the most influential now?
• Can Justin Bieber’s songs be considered legendary?
• Did Kanye West introduce a new kind of rap?
• Which rock bands lost their fame because of a scandal ? How did it happen?
• Discuss Dire Straits’ impact on music history .
• Who are currently the most successful women pop singers ?
• Why are some music genres more popular than others?
• What does success in the music world depend on ?

Topics for a Persuasive Essay about Music

Is there anything music-related you want to convince people of? A persuasive paper is your chance. Carefully craft your arguments to show your readers you’ve always been right about the beauty of cowbells. If it’s not your jam, consider these essay topics about music:

• A seven-string guitar is superior to a six-string one. The additional string gives more room for creativity. It might be challenging to master, but in the end, the music has a fuller sound . Do you think it’s worth the effort?
• The lyrics don’t matter as long as the melody is good. It’s possible to like songs from different countries, even if the listener doesn’t understand the language. The singing is simply part of the composition. Does this mean that what the vocalist says is unimportant?

• Most people living in big cities neglect country music. People from urban areas tend to think that country music is tasteless. For them, its tunes and lyrics sound too simple. Does the strong association with cowboys, farms, and long roads simply not appeal to the city lifestyle?
• Should rap music be performed only by black people ? The genre hosts a large portion of African American artists . Not only that, but black rappers are widely considered the best of their craft. Do white artists do the genre justice?
• Music that artists make merely to get money is soulless. Passion is a critical factor for every musician. If money is the primary driver for creating a song , the result is inevitably flawed. Do you agree?
• Pop music is undergoing a transformation. Listeners acknowledge pop as the primary genre of contemporary music . Yet, new musical instruments are changing the game. Even the lyrics touch on more serious topics than before.
• Indie is the new pop. Indie music is a relatively novel genre. Still, it continues to gain popularity. The light-hearted tunes paired with existential lyrics have captured the audience’s hearts. Is it possible to envision the future of music without bands such as Coldplay, The 1975, and the Arctic Monkeys?
• The meaning of freedom for jazz as a musical genre .
• Punk rock has recently witnessed a renaissance.
• Exposing plants to classical music makes them grow faster.
• Classical music: intellectually stimulating or relaxing ?
• Is it justified that some countries legally prohibit artists from performing?
• Is it easier for children to learn with music?
• Can a person ever become a great artist without a natural talent ?
• Should workplaces allow their employees to listen to background music ?
• Jimi Hendrix’s guitar skills are still unmatched.
• The impact of pop music on European culture and trends.
• Kurt Cobain’s death should have been a wake-up call for the music industry .
• Why is music beneficial to society?
• Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s legacy can be felt even today.
• Nintendocore is a legitimate genre that the industry should take more seriously.
• Should you listen to a bands’ music even if you disagree with their opinions ?
• Musicians should receive more government support.
• Patriotic songs make people feel passionate and energetic about their country.
• Depressive and sad tunes can worsen a person’s mood.
• Doctors and therapists need to understand the importance of music .

Music Evaluation Essay Topics

Do you want to know how to evaluate music? The point is to divide your overall impression into several parts. Music evaluation requires much attention and concentration, so try to do your best to stay focused while listening.

Use these criteria for evaluating music performances:

Now all you need to do is choose a topic and get down to writing!

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

• Discuss the rise and fall of hardcore punk. Many bands that started in the hardcore punk scene softened their sound over time. Why did this genre disappear from the mainstream?
• Copyright laws are going too far . It’s getting increasingly difficult to use somebody else’s intellectual property. Creators on YouTube have to fear lawsuits for creatively repurposing copyrighted music. Moreover, laws such as the DMCA are frequently abused to generate revenues.
• More bands should use their influence for political purposes . Renowned artists have a broad reach. Bands like Rise Against or Anti Flag use this influence to raise political awareness among their fans. Is it a fair approach?
• Borrowing and plagiarism in contemporary music . New artists don’t emerge without having listened to other musicians. They draw inspiration from their predecessors. Thus, songs are always a mix of already existing tracks. In your essay, discuss the difference between homage and plagiarism.
• What are the similarities between poetry and song lyrics? Songs and poems are similar in that they deliver a message to the audience. Their creation demands extensive knowledge of rhyming, literary devices, and other components.
• Why do some musicians ask others to write lyrics for them? It is a common practice to have a crew of songwriters who create texts for performers. Sometimes it happens due to a lack of imagination or inspiration. Does finding out that your favorite artist doesn’t write their lyrics destroy the magic of their music?
• How can popular music diversify as a genre? Pop music reached its peak. Adding and borrowing elements from different genres can be one way to diversify a streamlined genre.
• The history of music as political propaganda .
• Explain the difference between high and low contemporary music culture .
• How is contemporary music related to that from other periods?
• What are the connections between pop music and the hip-hop genre?
• What connects popular music and contemporary culture ?
• How does music in the United States relate to Spanish music ?
• Analyze the evolution of Indian music .
• Discuss why certain albums manage to climb to the top of the charts.
• The link between social classes and musical genres.
• Differences and similarities of music and other art forms .
• How does a musical instrument’s origin influence its development?
• What is the role of traditional music today?

• What are the main processes in music production?
• How is music theory relevant today?
• Analyze which contemporary artists’ albums had an effect comparable to that of Queen’s A Night at the Opera .
• Eurodance: Europe’s most extravagant genre.
• Songs and everyday life of Michael Jackson vs. Madonna: who wins the ultimate pop crown?
• What difficulties has Eminem faced throughout his career?
• Over-ear headphones provide a better sound experience than on-ear ones.

Topics for an Expository Essay on Music

An expository essay explains or describes a subject. In the colorful world of music, topics can range from the physics of sound waves to artists’ social impact.

• The importance of Blues music in the late 19 th century and now . Blues originated in the 19 th century American South. It was an outlet for African Americans to express their sorrows. Later, it exceeded by far the cultural boundaries that confined it.
• The role of music in prison camps. Singing was an essential part of life in the Nazi concentration camps . One of the most well-known songs of that time is called Peat Bog Soldiers . In your expository essay, explore why prisoners started singing and how it developed.
• How did Chester Bennington’s death impact the music industry? Linkin Park was a giant in the business for decades until depression made their lead singer take his own life. The event sparked debates surrounding mental health and pressure in the creative industry. What long-lasting effects did these discussions have?
• How did Baroque music reflect the zeitgeist? Compared to the Renaissance period, Baroque was in all aspects very pompous. The artists of the Sun King’s time didn’t shy away from the extravaganza. This ideal is especially prominent in architecture. How does music fit into the picture?
• Investigate the development of musical harmony. The Ancient Greeks already had an idea of some tones fitting together better than others. However, it wasn’t until the 1600s that tonality became a crucial part of music theory.
• Music in commercials: an analysis. Songs and jingles are commonplace in TV commercials. But what are they good for? In your essay, you can compare the success of advertisements with and without music.
• What causes music trends to change? It’s easy to define various eras of music . Naturally, the invention of new instruments has influenced this development. What other factors played a role in these transformations?
• Why is 4/4 a universal beat?
• Examine the origins of The Star-Spangled Banner .
• The effects of dissonance on the human mind .
• How do staccato, legato, and other forms of articulation influence the perception of a musical piece ?
• Discuss the significance of music in video games .
• Music drives people’s motivation.
• Explain the calming effects of nature sounds .
• How does music influence literature ?
• Celtic music is known to have an extraordinary impact on the psyche. How does it work?
• How does music impact the discharge of hormones such as dopamine?
• Music therapy is suitable for those who have bipolar disorder .
• What made Falco such a unique artist?
• How does the perception of a silent film differ from that of a movie with sound?
• A rock concert by Kansas: How the relevance of live concerts changed over time .
• Is being able to read music important for a composer ?
• How did Beethoven write music after losing his hearing?
• Should all songs have proper rhythm and structure?
• Why do so many indie artists become commercial?
• Is it essential for song lyrics to rhyme?

History of Music: Essay Topics

If you’re interested in the evolution of music, you’ve come to the right section. Historical research reveals the significance of music throughout time. Unsurprisingly, songs and melodies have been part of human culture for centuries. Dive deeper into this exciting subject with one of the following ideas:

• How did the Catholic Church influence music development in Europe? During the Middle Ages , religious movements had a significant impact on music. Consequently, composers used to create more sacred music. It became a way of personal expression since it often contained religious texts. 
• The cultural meaning of Renaissance music and its influence on other styles . During the time of the Renaissance , sacred and secular music heavily impacted each other. As a result, more variety emerged. The chanson and madrigal, for example, became popular around Europe.
• Research archaeological findings of early musicality. The search for the oldest musical instrument delivers thrilling insights. Archaeologists have excavated a flute made of ivory and bird bones, dating approximately 43,000 years ago. They found it in a cave in Germany where Neanderthals lived.
• History of early music and appearance of musical instruments. The beginning of the human culture was the turning point of musical instruments’ appearance. They were primarily used for spiritual rites; typically, they were horns or drums for ceremonies.
• Louis Armstrong’s contributions to the jazz world. Jazz originated in New Orleans and was a favorite among African Americans. Louis Armstrong’s improvisations forever changed the genre, making the soloist-improviser the center of the performance.
• The phenomenon of pop music and its origins. Popular music dates back to the second half of the last century. It comes from the US and the UK. Its main peculiarity lies in the variety of tunes and lyrics .
• Native American music before the discovery of the New World . Incas and Aztecs had particular styles of music. Findings show that these ancient civilizations used instruments for ceremonies. Researchers also discovered that various American cultures mingled, thus creating new techniques.
• The use of string instruments in classical Greek songwriting.
• Famous composers of 18th century Italy and their influence.
• Mozart vs. Beethoven: comparison of techniques.
• Deliver a thoughtful analysis of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony .
• What role do acoustic instruments play in jazz compositions ?
• Explore the history of the Ocarina.
• Due to what circumstances did Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart become one of the greatest musical geniuses in history?
• Influence of the Romantic period on modern music .
• How and why were the swing era and jazz connected?
• Rock and roll as an international language in the 20th century.
• Explore the rise of techno music.
• Is there a historical connection between music and math ?
• How did music become a staple subject in many schools?
• The greatest musicians of World War I .
• Industrialization and its effect on music development.
• How did female producers such as Kate Bush impact the music industry ?
• Analyze Frédéric Chopin’s contribution to classical music .
• Music evolution in ancient Greece vs. the Roman Empire .
• How does archeology help to uncover musical traditions ?
• Tupac’s influence on modern rap music .

Classification Essay about Music: Topic Ideas

In a classification essay, you explain how a whole relates to parts or vice versa. To do it, you need to divide one broad category into several subcategories. Each classification paragraph focuses on one subcategory, so you need to find a key feature that will be your basis of division. For example, you can divide music by genre, volume, musical instruments, etc.

Here is our list of musical topics for this essay type:

• The most popular types of alternative music among teenagers. Naturally, teens like different kinds of rock and experimental music . Try to dig deeper and ask some teenagers about their preferences to get a clear picture.
• Types of modern dance music . Describe the tendencies and popular genres. You can also focus on a specific country.
• The most popular types of jazz music in Europe . Although jazz emerged in the United States, this genre became recognizable all over the world. You can analyze the most popular streamed songs, or the concerts and other mass events.
• Rock music in the ’70s. You can describe the genres, styles, or types of performers. The concerts, clothes, and lifestyles are also suitable for this topic.
• Blues musicians of different time periods. Analyze the lyrics, the musical instruments they used, and how long their careers lasted.
• Classification of music for children . Some of it can be for dancing, development, or just listening. Research the purposes of different kinds of music for children.
• Types of music used in films. The soundtrack is one of the main things we remember after watching a movie. There can be popular songs or tracks composed specifically for a film .
• Rock bands that represent different subgenres.
• Rap subgenres in the United States.
• Periods of classical music .
• What motivates people to start a musical career?
• Different kinds of music for relaxation.
• The industries where composers work .
• Types of opera singers and instrumental music .
• Different professions in the music industry .
• Unpopular genres of independent music.
• Different types of music listeners .

College Essay about Music: Topics

When you apply to your dream college, you need to write an impressive essay. Admissions officers pay attention not only to your grades and achievements but also to your personality. Your writing can indicate your motivation, academic interests, and how well you fit into the college. Writing an essay about “music in my life” is a great way to demonstrate your passion and creativity.

Choose one of these topics related to music for your college essay:

• The role of music in your life . Describe what music means to you, how often you listen to it, and how it helps you in life. For example, you can write about inspiration, motivation, or the sense of freedom that it gives you.
• What are the essential aspects of music for you? Try to write down everything you like about music. It might be melodies, lyrics, vocals, or mood. You can choose several aspects if you feel that you can’t decide.
• The time when music changed your life. In this essay, you can pick one occurrence or describe how music changed your life gradually. It’s important to indicate where you started from and where it led you.
• How do you see the future of the music industry? Demonstrate to the admissions officer how well you know the art and the business.
• Your role model in the music industry. You may write about the qualities of the person you admire and why you want to develop them in yourself. Remember that admission officers want to read about you, not your idol.
• How did your musical taste change over the last ten years? Describe the evolution of your preferences. Explain why you have changed some of your past choices. Do you think your musical taste has improved?
• Your favorite musical genre .
• Does listening to music help to heal body and spirit?
• What is the best music performance you have ever seen?
• Why do people become fans of particular musicians?
• Your favorite song lyrics .
• Can people be judged by their musical taste?
• Why is music an essential part of human culture?
• Quote about music that appeals to you the most.
• How can music education help you in the future?
• Do you prefer listening to music or performing it?
• How can music change your mood?
• Why you want to become a musician.
• Which culture has the most beautiful ethnical music ?
• Is music more of an art or business?
• What are the essential parts of musical education ?

Other Music Essay Topics

• Why do supermarkets play music? Think of the reasons why marketers use music in advertising and how it impacts customer behavior.
• An analysis of Robert Wise’s The Sound of Music . Evaluate how the director uses music to tell a story.
• The impact of music on the human brain . Examine the latest research in the mental health field and how music therapy affects depression treatments.
• The workings of the music industry . Assess how contemporary audio technology and touring lifestyle affect musicians.
• The role of music in different cultures. Choose and compare two countries to analyze their perspectives on the music industry.
• Music on television . Evaluate how the music of TV shows and movies impacts the audience’s feelings and behavior.
• Oliver Sacks’ contribution to music psychology. Explore the theories he discusses in Musicophilia and describe its influence on music psychology.
• Should all music be available for free download? Think about the ethical and legal aspects of this issue.
• How did music psychology help the development of music education ? Try to find a correlation between these two fields.
• Britney Spears and the adverse effects of teen popularity. Writing about this topic, you might want to focus on how her early fame affected her life. What happened after her famous breakdown in 2007?
• The half-life of one-hit-wonders. Focus your paper on quantitative research. How long do one-hit-wonders stay famous on average? Why do they fail to maintain their success?
• Journalism and the music industry. Examine the effects positive or negative press had on a musician of your choice.
• Festivals and sponsorship. Discuss the benefits that corporate sponsors and the creators of music festivals gain from working together.
• Rock songs and pessimistic lyrics. Why do most popular rock songs have such sad and angry lyrics?
• Discuss the development of your music taste. Write about what pushed you to change and how it influenced your life.
• The psychology of music. Examine what someone’s favorite music genre can tell about their personality.
• Is ASMR music? ASMR artists make quiet sounds to soothe their audience. But can we really consider it music?
• A historical analysis of jazz. Explore how African Americans influenced the flourishing culture of jazz that has spread worldwide.
• The effect of classical music on children’s cognitive abilities. Supposedly, classical music is great for kids. Study this theory and make your conclusions.
• Discuss the characteristics of modern Latin American music . Dive into its diversity and describe the reasons for its popularity.
• How do Chinese artists make traditional music? Write about its complex creation process. Analyze the importance of articulation for composers.
• The history of music . With this essay, explore the six periods of music history. To top it off, you can predict what music will be like in the future.
• The music industry goes online. Discuss the importance of the internet for the industry and the challenges associated with it.
• The magic of instrumental music. Pick your favorite orchestra pieces and find unique features in each of them.
• Musical education: the sound of success? Does everyone need a musical background?
• Explore the latest techniques in songwriting . Look into the song creation process of contemporary musicians. How do they get the audience to enjoy their art?
• Compare and contrast e-pianos and keyboards . In doing so, consider their structure, sound, and features.
• The Woodstock festival as a game-changer. How has the Woodstock Music and Art Fair influenced the current state of the music industry? Additionally, investigate how current festivals hold up to the standards set by Woodstock.
• Music therapy for stroke patients . Find out whether incorporating elements of music therapy can support the treatment of patients who suffered a stroke.
• How do amplifiers work? If you’re a musician, you’ve likely used an amplifier before. Now it’s time to figure out what they are actually doing.
• The Killers’ contributions to indie rock. How would you define their style of music? What makes them a key player in indie music?
• Analyze the music in Grease . Pick some of the most popular songs from the musical and write about their influence on American culture.
• What’s the best way to interpret songs? Describe methods to deconstruct songs and how the music style affects this process.
• Teufel vs. Sennheiser: the ultimate comparison. German sound equipment manufacturers are known for their cutting-edge technologies . But which brand is the best?
• What role does harmony play in music composition? Choose several pieces of music and describe how the artists used harmony.
• How necessary are double bass drums? Do musicians place them on stage just to impress people, or do they have actual use?
• Compare regular festivals and free ones. Why spend hundreds of dollars on Coachella if you can go to Woodstock for free? In your essay, focus on the differences such as size, participating artists, and general entertainment .
• A historical analysis of choral music. Singing in groups is a practice common across various cultures . You might choose one or two to work on.
• How did The Rolling Stones influence British culture? The Rolling Stones are one of the longest-standing rock bands of all time. Naturally, this left significant marks on their home country.
• How important are regional accents for English-language singers ? When working on this theoretical topic, include some examples and your personal opinion.
• The world of musical instruments: medieval music . This fun essay can focus on different types of medieval instruments and their evolution.
• Does the creative process differ for electronic and acoustic music? Look at how artists usually write songs. Do they start with the melody, the rhythm, or the lyrics? Does it depend on the medium?
• The correlation between poems and medieval songs. Find out how composers were reinventing poetry to create songs.
• Hip-hop and gender equality . What is the role of women in the development of this music style? Don’t forget to give examples.
• When politics interferes with art: Eurovision. Analyze the role of the political situation in this song contest. Is there anything left of its original idea?
• How did Vladimir Vysotsky become a beloved musical figure outside of Soviet Russia? It’s unusual for Russian-language musicians to gain fame outside of their home country. Research how Vysotsky managed to mingle in the USA and have some of his work posthumously released in Europe.
• K-pop conquers the world . You may narrow the topic down to a specific artist. Focus on the influence of Korean music in other cultures.
• Music school students vs. amateurs. Discuss the different experiences and outcomes of music school students and those who learn to play instruments at home.
• Do music choices shape one’s identity , or is it the other way around? It’s an exciting question that lets you dig deep into the psychology of music.
• The music of dissents. Energizing songs play an essential part in rebellions and revolutions. For example, analyze how protesters used music during the Arab Spring .
• The development and popularity of electronic music . Starting from the early experiments, analyze the development of this style and its increasing influence
• How do artists use social media to promote their music? You might want to choose one or two examples to illustrate the tools they use.
• Organum as one of the oldest written types of music . Study the development of this music style throughout various cultures.
• The appeal of Metallica’s Nothing Else Matters. Many people consider the song one of their favorites. Examine its structure , melody, and lyrics. What makes it unique?
• Africa’s hidden musical gems. African music is as diverse as its people. Pick two countries and compare their style. How do they differ from Western art ?
• Did people’s music tastes improve compared to previous decades? Here, you have the chance to express your views on the evolution of people’s music preferences.
• Is the life of pop stars as easy as people think? Share your thoughts on whether famous musicians and singers have a leisurely lifestyle.
• Physiological reactions to different types of music . Study how your body reacts to various beats and tones.
• Why do people tend to listen to specific songs on certain occasions? In your essay, ponder the effects of love songs or powerful anthems on one’s mood .
• What does someone’s ringtone say about their personality ? Think about how it affects your perception of a person.
• The impact of music on the individual’s productivity . Studies suggest a positive effect on people’s performance when they listen to something pleasant while working. But all the noise can get overstimulating. That’s why finding the balance is central.
• Music is natural. In the depth of nature, there is music. Rain, a bird’s song, or the tapping of a squirrel’s feet melt together to create a beautiful composition . Music is everywhere—one only needs to listen carefully.

If you haven’t found what you’re looking for, you’re welcome to use our topic generator .

✍️ Music Essay: How to Write

So, you have chosen your essay title. Now it’s time to start writing! But before you begin, read the sections below and learn how to organize your work.

How to Describe Music in Writing

You might think that writing about music is like dancing about architecture. Well, it is not an easy task, but we know how to cope with it.

Follow these tips while writing:

• Make a comparison.  Explain which characteristics of a piece remind you or are identical to those of another one. It’s better to avoid comparing music from different composers in this case. Instead, evaluate and analyze two musical pieces from the same composer.
• Describe the melody and dynamics.  You may want to use musical terms to show your knowledge and proficiency. Define the genre and what kind of instruments and tones are used.
• Explain how it makes you feel.  You can use basic human emotions to describe the feelings of a listener. For example, it can be anger, tenderness, irritation, excitement, or nostalgia.
• Use metaphorical language.  You may try using your imagination to create analogies. Be careful not to make your metaphors overcomplicated, as it may confuse the readers.

Essays about Music: Descriptive Words

Do you want your essay on music to be interesting and expressive? Then you may want to use descriptive vocabulary. Here are some of the terms that you can use in your essay to make it sound more professional:

• Tempo is the “speed” of music. There are fixed expressions to define tempo—for example, largo, moderate, or presto. You can also describe how fast the music feels.
• Timbre is the term that evaluates the “color” of music. Even if two instruments play the same note of the same volume, the sound is still different. This is how you can notice the color of the tone. For example, gentle, clear, heavy, or warm can be the adjectives to describe timbre.
• Dynamics define the volume levels of music. The volume can be the same all the time, for example loud or soft. If the volume of music changes, you can use such expressions as “gradually gets louder” “or suddenly becomes soft.”
• Harmony characterizes how all the notes and chords sound together. The sequence of chords—chord progression—defines how satisfying the melody is for the listener. For example, if the transitions are smooth, you can use such words as “relaxed” or “warm.”

Music Essay Outline

Like any other assignment, writing about music requires a proper essay outline that will guide you through the writing. The following sections will help you with that.

Before you start, here are some tips that will help you prepare for writing:

• Do some prior research. Try to learn as much as possible about the piece you will be writing about. It’s also helpful to listen to the music several times with headphones to notice more details.
• Don’t be afraid of asking questions. Consult your instructor if you’re unsure about your topic or the piece you have chosen.
• Choose the topic that you like. If you’re passionate about a subject, it is always easier to write about it. Who said that homework could not be interesting?
• Follow the recommendations that your instructor gives. It includes word limit, formatting style, deadline, and essay type.

Music Essay Introduction

The introduction is the section where you come up with a brief explanation of the topic. You may start it with a quotation, definition, or short statement that catches your reader’s attention and leads them to the essay subject.

A thesis statement is usually the last sentence of the introduction that defines the content of body paragraphs. It needs to be specific and not longer than two sentences. If you decide to shift the focus of your essay while writing, it’s crucial to change your thesis too.

Different types of essays require different thesis statements. Let’s take a closer look:

Music Essay Body

Your essay’s body is the most significant part of your writing. Here, you provide evidence and explanations of your claims.

The typical body paragraph structure includes:

• A topic sentence explaining the argument for a particular paragraph.
• An introduction to the evidence you gathered to support an argument.
• Quotes and facts (don’t forget about proper citation!) and their explanation.
• A connection between the evidence and the essay topic.
• Paragraph transitions  leading your reader to the next section.

Topic Sentence about Music

Topic sentences can be used as a roadmap to writing your essay. Each body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that defines what the paragraph is about. It introduces the argument or main thought that will be explained. It’s also connected with the thesis statement.

It’s essential to make your thesis easy to understand, so it’s better not to overcomplicate it. For example, here’s an unsuccessful topic sentence with unnecessary words:

As stated above, the guitar is an essential musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Instead, you can formulate it like this:

The guitar is the most iconic musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Music Essay Conclusion

When writing a conclusion for your essay on music, you can use the following structure:

• Summarize the text in a few sentences.
• Review the key points of your paper.
• Paraphrase the thesis.

To make your essay conclusion more effective, avoid the following:

📑 What Music Means to Me: Essay Example

Now you know all about writing an essay on music! To make it even easier for you, we’ve prepared an essay sample that you can use for inspiration. Check it out:

Now all you need is to turn the music on and get down to writing! We hope you liked this guide. If you did, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends.

Further reading:

• How to Write a Good Critique Paper: Killer Tips + Examples
• How to Write an Art Critique Essay: Guidelines and Examples
• How to Write a Movie Critique Paper: Top Tips + Example
• Modern Fairy Tale Essay: How to Write, Topics and Ideas
• 200 Creative Topics for Opinion Essays
• 182 Free Ideas for Argumentative or Persuasive Essay Topics
• 180 Excellent Evaluation Essay Topics

✏️ Music Essay FAQ

Music is a vast topic. An essay might deal with anything ranging from trends in the 1950s to the best guitarists of all time. Writing an introduction to certain music styles or bands is also possible. In any case, the paper should be well-structured, logical, and cohesive.

Writing about music doesn’t necessarily require any specific skills. If you’re not familiar with the theory of music and can’t play musical instruments, you can just write about the music you like. Here are some topic ideas: favorite music band, style, or how you perceive music.

You can interpret music as a topic in various ways. If you are getting a degree in this field, you might want to write something more specific and technical. If your essay aims to merely inform and entertain, write about your favorite music style or band.

If you are writing an essay for school, a good choice would be an expository essay. It doesn’t require any specific knowledge of the music industry. Title suggestions might be: “My perception of music,” “My favorite band,” “How music can change the world.”

• What is the Music Industry? Definition and Facts: Study.com
• What Music Do You Write To?: Writers & Artists
• A Music Review: British Council
• Music: UNC Writing Center: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Sound and Sense: Writing about Music: Colorado State University
• Music analysis Research Papers: Academia.edu
• The Power of Music Therapy: Belmont University
• Musicology: Northwestern Bienen School of Music
• Musicology: Areas of Study: Indiana State University
• Music Facts: Facts.net
• Music History from Primary Sources: Library of Congress
• Music: Encyclopedia Britannica
• A History of Classical Music: Part 1: The List
• What Is Jazz: Smithsonian Institution
• The 50 Greatest Composers of All Time: Classical Music
• Musical Terms and Concepts: SUNY Potsdam
• Ethnomusicology: University of Oxford
• Music Research Process: Syracuse University
• Journal of Popular Music Studies: University of California Press
• The History of Pop Music in 5 Defining Decades: The Culture Trip
• Music of the 20 th Century: Lumen Learning
• Explainer: Indie Music: The Conversation
• Your Brain on Music: University of Central Florida
• Music and Health: Harvard University
• The Psychological Function of Music Listening: NIH
• Essays that Worked: Hamilton
• Writing in Music: Writing Thesis Statements: The City University of New York
• Academic Writing about Music: University of Denver
• How to Write Song Lyrics: Berklee
• Essay Introduction: University of Maryland
• Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements: Purdue University
• Writing Body Paragraphs: Monash University
• Some Tips for Writing Efficient, Effective Body Paragraphs: University of California, Berkeley
• Writing a Paper: Conclusions: Walden University
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Thank you very much for this post on music essay writing! You don’t know how long I looked for the helpful information on writing music essays!

Music takes an important part in my life. I wake up and go to bed listening to music. And now when I’m writing my music essay, I also listen to music. And it’s also a pleasure to read an article on how to write an essay on music!

Guide on How to Write a Music Essay: Topics and Examples

Let's Understand What is Music Essay

You know how some school assignments are fun to write by default, right? When students see them on the course syllabus, they feel less like a burden and more like a guaranteed pleasure. They are about our interests and hobbies and therefore feel innate and intuitive to write. They are easy to navigate, and interesting topic ideas just pop into your head without much trouble.

Music essays belong to the category of fun essay writing. What is music essay? Anything from in-depth analysis to personal thoughts put into words and then to paper can fall into a music essay category. An essay about music can cover a wide range of topics, including music history, theory, social impact, significance, and musical review. It can be an analytical essay about any music genre, musical instruments, or today's music industry.

Don't get us wrong, you will still need to do extensive research to connect your opinions to a broader context, and you can't step out of academic writing standards, but the essay writing process will be fun.

In this article, our custom essay writing service is going to guide you through every step of writing an excellent music essay. You can draw inspiration from the list of music essay topics that our team prepared, and later on, you will learn what an outstanding essay on music is by an example of a music review essay.

What are Some Music Topics to Write About

There are so many exciting music topics to write about. We would have trouble choosing one. You can write about various music genres, be it country music or classical music; you can research music therapy or how music production happens.

Okay, forgive us for getting carried away; music makes us enthusiastic. Below you will find a list of various music essay topics prepared from our thesis writing service . Choose one and write a memorable essay about everyone's favorite art form.

Music Argumentative Essay Topics

Music essays can be written about an infinite number of themes. You can even write about performance or media comparison.

Here is a list of music argumentative essay topics. These edge-cutting topics will challenge your readers and get you an easy A+.

• Exploring the evolution of modern music styles of the 21st century
• Is it ethical to own and play rare musical instruments?
• Is music therapy an effective mental health treatment?
• Exploring the Intersection of Technology and Creativity in electronic music
• The Relevance of traditional music theory in modern music production
• The Role of musical pieces in the Transmission of cultural identity
• The value of historical analysis in understanding the significance of music in society
• How does exposing listeners to different genres of music break down barriers
• Exploring the cognitive effects of music on human brain development
• The therapeutic potential of music in treating mental disorders

Why is Music Important Essay Topics

Do you know which essay thrills our team the most? The importance of music in life essay. We put our minds together and came up with a list of topics about why music is so central to human life. Start writing why is music important essay, and we guarantee you that you will be surprised by how much fun you had crafting it.  

• Popular Music and its Role in shaping cultural trends
• Music as a metaphorical language for expressing emotions and thoughts
• How music changes and influences social and political movements
• How the music of different countries translates their history to outsiders
• The innate connection between music and human beings
• How music helps us understand feelings we have never experienced
• Does music affect our everyday life and the way we think?
• Examining the cross-cultural significance of music in society
• How rock music influenced 70's political ideologies
• How rap music closes gaps between different racial groups in the US

Consider delegating your ' write my essay ' request to our expert writers for crafting a perfect paper on any music topic!

Why I Love Music Essay Topics

We want to know what is music to you, and the best way to tell us is to write a why I love music essay. Below you will find a list of music essay topics that will help you express your love for music.

• I love how certain songs and artists evoke Memories and Emotions
• I love the diversity of music genres and how different styles enrich my love for music
• I love how music connects me with people of different backgrounds
• How the music of Linkin Park helped me through life's toughest challenges
• What does my love for popular music say about me?
• How the unique sounds of string instruments fuel my love for music
• How music provides a temporary Release from the stresses of daily life
• How music motivates me to chase my dreams
• How the raw energy of rock music gets me through my daily life
• Why my favorite song is more than just music to me

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Music Therapy Essay Topics

One of the most interesting topics about music for an essay is music therapy. We are sure you have heard all the stories of how music cures not only mental but also physical pains. Below you can find a list of topics that will help you craft a compelling music therapy essay. And don't forget that you can always rely on our assistance for fulfilling your ' write my paper ' requests!

• The effectiveness of music therapy in reducing stress and pain for cancer patients
• Does pop music have the same effects on music therapy as classical music?
• Exploring the benefits of music therapy with other genres beyond classical music
• The potential of music therapy in aiding substance abuse treatment and recovery
• The Role of music therapy in Addressing PTSD and Trauma in military veterans
• The impact of music therapy on enhancing social interaction and emotional expression in individuals with developmental disabilities
• The use of music therapy in managing chronic pain
• Does musical therapy help depression?
• Does music reduce anxiety levels?
• Is music therapy better than traditional medicine?

History of Music Essay Topics

If you love analytical essays and prefer to see the bigger picture, you can always write a music description essay. Below you can find some of the most interesting topics for the history of music essay.

• The Significance of natural instruments in music production and performance
• Tracing the historical development of Western music theory
• How electronic music traces its roots back to classical music
• How the music industry evolved from sheet music to streaming services
• How modern producers relate to classical composers
• The Origins and Influence of Jazz Music
• How folk music saved the Stories of unnamed heroes
• Do we know what the music of ancient civilizations sounded like?
• Where does your favorite bandstand in the line of music evolve?
• The Influence of African American Music on modern pop culture

Benefits of Music Essay Topics

If you are someone who wonders what are some of the values that music brings to our daily life, you should write the benefits of music essay. The music essay titles below can inspire you to write a captivating essay:

• How music can be used to promote cultural awareness and understanding
• The benefits of music education in promoting creativity and innovation
• The social benefits of participating in music groups
• The Impact of Music on Memory and Learning
• The cognitive benefits of music education in early childhood development
• The effects of music on mood and behavior
• How learning to play an instrument improves cognitive functions.
• How music connects people distanced by thousands of miles
• The benefits of listening to music while exercising
• How music can express the feelings words fail to do so 

Music Analysis Essay Example

Reading other people's papers is a great way to scale yours. There are many music essay examples, but the one crafted by our expert writers stands out in every possible way. You can learn what a great thesis statement looks like, how to write an engaging introduction, and what comprehensive body paragraphs should look like. 

Click on the sample below to see the music analysis essay example. 

How to Write a Music Essay with Steps

Writing music essays is definitely not rocket science, so don't be afraid. It's just like writing any other paper, and a music essay outline looks like any other essay structure.

• Start by choosing a music essay topic. You can use our list above to get inspired. Choose a topic about music that feels more relevant and less researched so you can add brand-new insights. As we discussed, your music essay can be just about anything; it can be a concert report or an analytical paper about the evolution of music.
• Continue by researching the topic. Gather all the relevant materials and information for your essay on music and start taking notes. You can use these notes as building blocks for the paper. Be prepared; even for short essays, you may need to read books and long articles.
• Once you have all the necessary information, the ideas in your head will start to take shape. The next step is to develop a thesis statement out of all the ideas you have in your head. A thesis statement is a must as it informs readers what the entire music essay is about. Don't be afraid to be bold in your statement; new outlooks are always appreciated.
• Next, you'll need a music essay introduction. Here you introduce the readers to the context and background information about the research topic. It should be clear, brief, and engaging. You should set the tone of your essay from the very beginning. Don't forget the introduction is where the thesis statement goes.
• One of the most important parts of essay writing is crafting a central body paragraph about music. This is where you elaborate on your thesis, make main points, and support them with the evidence you gathered beforehand. Remember, your music essay should be well structured and depict a clear picture of your ideas.
• Next, you will need to come up with an ideal closing paragraph. Here you will need to once again revisit the main points in your music essay, restate them in a logical manner and give the readers your final thoughts.
• Don't forget to proofread your college essay. Whether you write a long or short essay on music, there will be grammatical and factual errors. Revise and look through your writing with a critical mind. You may find that some parts need rewriting.

Key Takeaways

Music essays are a pleasure to write and read. There are so many topics and themes to choose from, and if you follow our How to Write a Music Essay guide, you are guaranteed to craft a top-notch essay every time.

Be bold when selecting a subject even when unsure what is research essay topic on music, take the writing process easy, follow the academic standards, and you are good to go. Use our music essay sample to challenge yourself and write a professional paper. 

If you feel stuck and have no time our team of expert writers is always ready to give you help from all subject ( medical school personal statement school help ). Visit our website, submit your ' write my research paper ' request and a guaranteed A+ essay will be on your way in just one click.

Need Help in Writing an Impressive Paper?

Our expert writers are here to write a quality paper that will make you the star of your class!

FAQs on Writing a Music Essay

Though music essay writing is not the hardest job on the planet, there are still some questions that often pop up. Now that you have a writing guide and a list of essay topics about music, it's time to address the remaining inquiries. Keep reading to find the answers to the frequently asked questions. 

Should Artists' Music be Used in Advertising?

What type of music is best for writing an essay, why do people love music, related articles.

Music in business and management studies: a systematic literature review and research agenda

• Open access
• Published: 27 March 2023

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• Elia Pizzolitto   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-4569-1365 1  

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Music is the background of life, representing an international language that connects different cultures. It is also significant with respect to economies, markets, and businesses. The literature in the music field has identified several issues related to the role of digitalization in the revolution of music, the distribution of music products, the management and organization of music events, music marketing strategies, and the position of musicians as entrepreneurs. This paper comprises a systematic literature review of the most recent articles discussing the numerous connections between music, business, and management (2017–2022). Through a rigorous protocol, this research discusses the effects of the digital revolution on the music industry, with particular reference to the persisting oligopoly of major labels and the new business models that integrate music streaming and social networks. The findings show the renaissance and relevance of live music events, the fundamental role of segmentation strategies for managing festivals, and the limited presence of sustainability as a priority during festivals and events management. Furthermore, the literature highlights the relevance of discussions concerning musicians’ identity, especially in light of the complex relationship between the bohemian and the entrepreneurial nature of their profession. This is followed by numerous reflections on future research opportunities, recommending theoretical and empirical in-depth studies of music industry competition, futuristic management philosophies and business models, and the roles of technology, sustainability, and financial elements in fostering artists’ success in the digital era. Finally, the paper discusses business models and strategies for musicians, festivals management, stores, and sustainability.

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1 Introduction

As Mithen ( 2009 ; p 3) states, “To be human is to be musical”. Music is part of most individuals’ daily lives. For example, it plays in the background when people make purchases at stores and eat at restaurants. It is a universal language that helps strangers communicate immediately, that spreads and evokes emotions, and that inspires players, producers, and listeners (Cooke 1990 ; Hunter and Schellenberg 2010 ). However, beyond being an artform that can connect people from different cultures (Huron 2001 ) and with different identities (Mithen 2009 ), music is also a business.

The worldwide relevance of music can be recognized not only in philosophical discussions but also in statistical data about the industry. Music consumption has grown quickly, particularly since the start of the digital revolution, and this growth seems unlikely to slow down in the future (IFPI 2022 ). The worldwide music industry has grown significantly in recent years. In fact, it grew from US$14.2 billion in 2014 to US$25.9 billion in 2021, revealing growth of 18.5% in 2021 (IFPI 2022 ). Streaming now drives the music market, representing 65% of global music market revenues in 2021 (IFPI 2022 ). This trend is a consequence of the digital revolution, which has been characterized by two phases of development (Koh et al. 2019 ). The first phase involved physical and digital music record sales. The second phase was the development of streaming, unbundling, and cross-platform services that combined music with other entertainment forms, such as video games, television programs, films, and talent shows (Shen et al. 2019 ).

Two of the most relevant dimensions of the music industry are as follows: (a) the production and distribution of music through physical and digital support networks, as guided by record companies; and (b) the production and distribution of live music, which is controlled by world-famous artists but is characterized by many minor professional musicians, sound technicians, and other workers. These two dimensions are interconnected. The digital revolution is disruptive, and it has upset traditional capitalist economies, but the world of live music has resisted such changes (Azzellini et al. 2021 ). In addition to these two major dimensions, the music industry includes a complex and elaborate set of other dimensions. These comprise the conditions of minor musicians and labels; publishing, managing, and marketing; teaching and other educational activities (Thomson 2013 ); and the conditions of local music and record stores.

In this regard, multiple issues have emerged from the literature, mostly related to the big change that the digital revolution has brought about in the music industry. For example, minor artists and labels have to consider new marketing strategies, and they need to find innovative ways to exploit the easier connections between consumers and their products that technologies allow, despite having limited financial assets (Zhang 2018 ). Another example involves music events or festivals, which face complex challenges because of the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Innovation in the organization and marketing of these events is focused on the concept of value creation, guided by the idea of festivals as chaotic and unpredictable events in which collaboration and co-creation are critical for the achievement of financial, economic, and social objectives (Werner et al. 2019 ). Covid-19 and the digital revolution complicated the conditions of local music and record stores, which are more centered on experience than competition and need stable innovation in their marketing strategies (Trabucchi et al. 2017 ).

Moreover, the growth of the music business has highlighted the complex relationship between musicians’ artistic and entrepreneurial sides. In fact, musicians face cultural barriers to their identification as professionals. As Frederickson and Rooney ( 1990 ) noted, an absence of formal requisites to enter the musical profession is one of its most relevant barriers; because of this lack of a need for credentials, many people do not consider music to be a profession. Indeed, as Henry ( 2013 ) found, few music students think about teaching music as a future profession. According to Pizzolitto ( 2021 ), musicians are reluctant to consider themselves entrepreneurs because of the complex relationship between art and profit. Therefore, the entrepreneurial identity of musicians should be fostered to overcome this obstacle to recognizing music as a profession.

This may be challenging, as the Covid-19 pandemic has adversely affected musicians’ activities. Although the music industry has continued to grow and has not been experienced many negative consequences, there have been numerous (orderly) protests by musicians and sound technicians who feel they have been forgotten by governmental policies. For example, in October 2020, a large group of musicians played in front of the British Parliament to protest a decision to decrease state benefits for freelance workers (Savage 2020 ). During the same month, musicians and sound technicians peacefully occupied many public squares in Italy to broadcast the slogan Esistiamo anche noi , which translates to “We also exist” (Sky Tg24 2020 ). In November 2020, musicians in Berlin held silent protests against a lockdown (Global Times 2020 ). Indeed, music around the world has experienced a number of conflicts.

Beyond the disparities in the success of record companies versus professional musicians, there are philosophical complexities connected to an antinomy between the artistic nature of music and the capitalistic context in which it is developed (e.g., see Bridson et al. 2017 ; Haynes and Marshall 2017 ). Musicians and record producers also face strategic issues concerning the distribution of their music. Waldfogel ( 2017 ) defined the current era as a golden age for music listening, yet musicians and producers experience dilemmas every time they intend to launch a product. One dilemma relates to the many opportunities available because of the digital revolution; for example, one can take advantage of digital platforms, streaming, and physical support networks. However, the increase in options demands more in-depth strategic planning. Thus, the philosophical significance of music to individuals, its relevance to people’s lives, and its importance to the economy are at odds with the research conditions of the field.

While attempts to map the literature on music research have been numerous and of high quality, they have mainly concentrated on the effects of music in the workplace (e.g., Landay and Harms 2019 ) or music education research. For instance, in 2004, volume 32 (issue 3) of Psychology of Music focused on mapping music education research in single national contexts (e.g., Welch et al. 2004 ; Gruhn 2004 ). Moreover, in 2006, Roulston published a methodological paper that incentivized qualitative research in the music field. Therefore, while existing research has discussed content relevant to the field, there is no literature review on the recent development of music in business and management studies, including topics such as digitalization, the conditions of the industry and competition, the management of music events, innovations, sustainability, and the complex position of musicians after the digital revolution. Consequently, this article addresses the research question “How does recent literature debate music in business and management studies?”.

The next section provides details on the methodology used in this literature review. In particular, it gives a detailed explanation of the procedure used to gather data and analyze the content of articles. Following this is a descriptive analysis of the literature sample, including the journals, author affiliations, and methods of the articles, and an analysis of the contents of the articles. The next section studies the themes that emerged in the articles. Finally, future research opportunities, managerial implications, and a general discussion of the results are presented in the conclusion.

2 Methodology

A systematic literature review (SLR) was chosen as the methodology for this study for two main reasons. First, the research questions concern a specific field (i.e., music in business studies). Second, an SLR can ensure a greater degree of objectivity compared with other kinds of literature reviews (e.g., narrative). It can also ensure reproducibility and limit biases in article selection and interpretation (Denyer and Tranfield 2009 ; Post et al. 2020 ). This study used a method described by Wolfswinkel et al. ( 2013 ), where contents of articles are analyzed using a grounded theory approach. This method ensured that the analysis would not be based on any prejudices. Moreover, grounded theory provides the advantage of developing a theoretical framework in the absence of a specific background (Corbin and Strauss 1990 ; Strauss and Corbin 1997 ). Finally, the method published by Wolfswinkel et al. ( 2013 ) exhibited no article selection differences compared with other SLR methodologies (e.g., see Denyer and Tranfield 2009 ; Post et al. 2020 ). Therefore, the method met all the requirements for conducting an SLR as objectively as possible.

2.1 The employed protocol

The method included the five following phases: define, search, select, analyze, and present (Fig.  1 ). During the first phase, the database and the inclusion/exclusion criteria for the study were determined. Similar to most SLRs (e.g., see Vrontis and Christofi 2019 ), only articles that were written in English and that had been published in peer-reviewed journals were included in the sample. To ensure that articles of the highest quality would be included, only those listed in the SCOPUS, EBSCOHost, and Web of Science databases were considered. Finally, specific keywords were used to search the three databases and were applied to titles, abstracts, and keywords of the articles. The keywords were music AND ( business OR management ).

Phases of SLR employed protocol

The second phase consisted of the search for articles. This began with several exploratory analyses to ensure that all relevant literature would be included. The research commenced with searching SCOPUS, and 7825 results were retrieved. The results were limited to peer-reviewed articles written in English, which narrowed the list to 3764 results. As the focus was on recent literature regarding music in business studies, the publication years were then restricted to 2017–2022, leaving 1333 results.

The same steps were followed in searching EBSCOHost. The initial dataset included 17,765 results, and after the limitations were applied, 183 articles remained. The steps were repeated in searching Web of Science, resulting in an initial sample of 2944 results. This number decreased to 855 after the limitations were applied.

During the third phase, the 2371 results were refined, and 771 duplicates were eliminated. After screening the titles, abstracts, keywords, and contents, 1444 false positives were eliminated. The final dataset comprised 145 articles.

The last two steps of the procedure were “analyze” and “present.” The next section presents the descriptive and content analyses of the articles (i.e., the results of these steps). Analyzing the articles included determining the type of paper, the distribution of publications over time, the authors’ productivity and affiliations, and the methods employed in the empirical articles. The contents of the articles were analyzed using a grounded theory approach, during which four themes emerged.

2.2 Inclusion and exclusion criteria

This section details the methods applied when including or excluding articles. To facilitate the selection of articles, an Excel file with 19 columns and 145 rows was created. More than 2700 cells were filled in with the following information for each paper: ID number, DOI, authors, title, publication year, source title, number of citations, source (i.e., SCOPUS, EBSCOHost, or Web of Science), paper type (i.e., empirical, conceptual, review), methodology (i.e., qualitative or quantitative), methods employed, sample size, type of statistical units; authors’ provenience; and theories cited. For reasons of space, the table cannot be shown here, but it is available upon request.

In addition, a column was devoted to the reason for including or excluding a paper. The objective was to consider only articles that explicitly referred to the interconnections between music and business or management issues. The process started with evaluating the titles, abstracts, and keywords to gain an understanding of the articles’ contents. If this evaluation was insufficient, the articles were read for a better evaluation.

To ensure transparency in the selection process, as suggested by Denyer and Tranfield ( 2009 ), some examples are considered. One article that was retrieved from the Scopus database was the article Neumatic singing in Thai popular singing, 1925–1967 by Inkhong et al. ( 2020 ) because it included the keywords used for the initial extraction. The article discussed solutions to problems related to incorrect pronunciation using neumatic singing. Therefore, it was excluded. Another article, Quality management of music education in modern kindergarten: Educational expectations of families by Boyakova ( 2018 ) talked about understanding and improving the quality of children’s music education and made no reference to business or management studies. Therefore, it too was excluded.

Examples of articles that were included are as follows. The article Digital music and the “death of the long tail” by Coelho and Mendes ( 2019 ) discussed the impact of digital distribution in the music market, concentrating on the dualism between the long tail theory and the superstar effect theory. Schediwy et al. ( 2018 )’s article Do bohemian and entrepreneurial career identities compete or cohere? discussed the identity of musicians. The article The role of stakeholders in shifting environmental practices of music festivals in British Columbia, Canada by Hazel and Mason ( 2020 ) discussed festival management. These three articles were relevant to our study and were therefore included in our review.

2.3 Grounded analysis of the articles’ contents

The grounded theory approach employed in this review followed a certain protocol. The 145 papers included in the sample were divided into subsamples of five randomly selected papers using Excel. Open coding was used to label the subsamples with codes to identify concepts and enable comparisons of the articles, including information such as the affiliated intuitions, the methodologies used, and the theoretical in-depth analyses. The final aim is to conceptualize the most relevant aspects and identify categories and subcategories of common elements.

Axial coding was then employed to make connections between the codes and facilitate further comparison of data emerging from the articles and theoretical and methodological frameworks in the various subsamples. The final aim was to build a systematically integrated network of concepts.

Finally, selective coding was employed to conceptualize and improve the results of the previous analyses. The aim was to achieve a well-integrated theoretical reasoning that can be used to simplify and enrich the reflections on the studied phenomenon.

Figure  2 shows an example of how subthemes emerged during the analysis. The blue tables correspond to random samples of five articles. The red oblongs represent the most relevant articles. The black squares represent (a very limited number of) critical codes (open coding). The violet, red, and green circles represent the results of conceptual connections among the codes (axial coding); the interpretation of these connections is shown at the bottom of the figure.

An example of grounded methodology applied in this research (colour figure online)

2.4 Limitations

This literature review tries to develop a complete picture of the most relevant research in music management and business. The aim is to establish a starting point for future in-depth analysis and gathering of future research in this area. Nevertheless, it is not exempt from limitations. First, the methodology, database searches, and analyses were performed by one author. Although the selected method (grounded theory method; see Wolfswinkel et al. 2013 ) was chosen for its ability to reduce objectivity, even in the content analysis of the selected articles, there might be limitations in the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria considering the high number of articles.

Second, this review employed specific databases to ensure the quality of papers extracted. However, this method inevitably excluded books, book chapters, grey literature, and other sources of information that could be relevant to the topic and in terms of triangulating information and enriching the results of the analysis. Therefore, future research should include the object of the analysis and more sources of information.

Finally, this review limits the time span to recent years. Although SLRs should include a limited number of articles to concentrate on a very specific and relevant research question, the considerable body of knowledge in terms of music management and business suggests that a more comprehensive viewpoint can be considered. Nevertheless, in case future research would be interested in enlarging the time span of the analysis, the amount of articles that would emerge would be studied using quantitative methods, such as meta-analysis or bibliometric analysis.

3 Descriptive analysis

This section presents the descriptive analysis of the selected literature. The analysis focuses on three aspects: (1) the authors’ provenience (Fig.  3 ), (2) the types of papers, and (3) the methods employed in the empirical studies.

Authors’ provenience

The UK and the USA led in terms of the number of relevant articles published in the period under study with 28.96% of the articles. There is a worldwide interest among scientists in terms of music research in business studies. Even though empirical articles are the most common in the selected dataset, theoretical articles and literature reviews are present in each of the five years considered. Excluding the year 2022, in which theoretical articles represent less than 8% of the contributions, one fifth of the dataset from 2017 to 2021 consists of theoretical articles and literature reviews. Therefore, there is considerable interest in debating conceptual issues in this field. Qualitative research—particularly case studies (26.42% of the dataset)—is the most common methodology used for performing research in the field. Interviews were also commonly used in the extracted contributions (18.87%). Therefore, it is possible that qualitative frameworks of analysis are the best way to gather and evaluate data in this market (Figs.  4 and 5 ).

Papers’ typology per year

Methods employed in the selected articles

4 Content analysis

This section presents the results obtained from the grounded analysis of the selected papers. Given the amount of data and the complexity of the concepts, two graphic representations have been created. Figure  6 shows a summary of codes, sub-themes, and themes that emerged from the analysis. Figure  7 shows a conceptual map of the field.

Codes, themes and subthemes emerged from selected literature

Conceptual map

4.1 The digital revolution and the music industry: Have things actually changed?

4.1.1 the effects of the digital revolution on the music industry.

The digital revolution profoundly and directly impacted the economy through direct effects such as an increase in aggregate productivity and competitiveness and through more unobserved effects relating to the development of open-access platforms, new business models, and the need of managers to always achieve a better understanding of consumers’ expectations. These unobserved effects of the digital revolution have been described as digital dark matter (Vendrell-Herrero et al. 2017 ). Moreover, the inevitability of technology-related industry disruption seems not to be totally caught by professionals and firms, which are not reacting appropriately to this phenomenon (Riemer and Johnston 2019 ). For this reason, new business models are theorized in the literature. For example, Morrow ( 2018 ) introduced the concept of distributed agility as a model consisting of a reactive approach through which multiple self-organized teams combine their abilities to respond quickly to the rapid changes in the new digital market.

During the period 2011–2018, digital music and streaming contributed dramatically to the renaissance of the market (Nakano 2019 ). According to Nag ( 2017 ), the dramatic increase in the amount of accessible music contents and the decreasing barriers to consumer access is producing a contradictory effect on the philosophy of consumption. On one side is the benefit of freedom of choice and on the other side is an indirect call for more scarcity.

The literature has recognized three waves of disruptive innovations—digital music distribution, permanent digital downloads, and music streaming (Urbinati et al. 2019 ). Reactions to these things were similar; after an initial majors’ tendency to protect their own competitive position against opponents, there was adaptation to the new paradigms of music distribution. In particular, after the digital music distribution revolution, incumbents concentrated on building online shops and selling music from their catalogues. After the digital download revolution, incumbents verified the weaknesses in their previous strategic reactions and started to build relationships and partnerships with newcomers to fight the increased competition of important innovations such as Apple’s iTunes Music Store. Finally, with the music streaming revolution, entities such as the iTunes Music Store started to consider acquisitions as strategic choices to limit the damage caused by the rapid development of services like Spotify (Urbinati et al. 2019 ).

The music supply network evolved in a similar way. Nakano and Fleury ( 2017 ) identified three stages in this evolution. The first stage in the 1980s was a physical supply chain in which the hierarchical model with a vertical integration structure fostered the power of major labels that controlled technical and market access. The second stage in the 1990s was a transitional supply network in which the captive governance model fostered an open hierarchy. In this phase, the power was in the form of control over market access. Finally, in the last 20 years, the supply network evolved to a digital ecosystem in which individual producers and small and large providers can (at least theoretically) compete with major labels, which are exploiting their accumulated power to control mass market access through collaboration, partnerships, and new business models based on digital outlets and aggregators.

Sinclair and Tinson ( 2017 ) highlighted the problem of the decreasing value of psychological ownership of music guided by the dematerialization of music and the advent of access-based streaming platforms. Nevertheless, the antecedents of psychological ownership—investment of the self, profound knowledge and control of the target, and pride—demonstrated that consumers are modifying their experimentation with psychological ownership, achieving loyalty, empowerment, citizenship, and social rewards as consequences of this phenomenon. Therefore, through the new conceptualization of the psychological ownership of music, consumers are able to control the target of ownership and to develop and protect their music identity.

The other side of the coin of the digital revolution in music is that collaboration between major labels and other actors has allowed them to keep their power and to maintain the oligopoly in the market. In this context, while technological and digital innovation is stimulated, innovation in music is discouraged (Sun 2019 ).

The music industry has reacted to this tendency and has been able to assimilate the technological and digital innovations (Naveed et al. 2017 ). In particular, there are types of innovations that have assumed an increasing level of importance after the digital revolution. For example, co-innovation, a construct comprising co-discovery, co-creation, and co-capture, is widely recognized as a fundamental element in promoting correct governance, leadership, and resource integration (Saragih et al. 2019a , b ).

4.1.2 The persisting oligopoly in the music market

The digital revolution and the digitalization of music produced an unexpected result in the music industry. Visionaries believed that the ability to achieve unlimited access to every kind of music—referred to as the celestial jukebox—would have led the music industry to overcome the oligopolist control of major labels and stimulate cultural diversity (Sun 2019 ). Nevertheless, the huge number of opportunities provided by the new digital market demonstrated that consumers need to be guided in their choices. The opportunities for musicians’ self-release apparently increased the degree of democratization of the music market. In fact, they consolidated the commodification and centralization of music whereby major labels still dominate the industry by promoting the conservative management of copyright ownership. This condition isolated self-released musicians, who have a marginal position in the industry. This is a worldwide condition, as verified in several articles, such as that by Qu et al. ( 2021 ). There is broad consensus regarding this condition and very few dissenters (e.g., Arbatani et al. 2018 ).

The digital revolution changed the pop-rock market, and streaming is now dominating the music industry, although there is still an important physical sector. Major labels have recently started a growth path after 15 years of crisis via the development of dynamic capabilities. In particular, technology allowed the emergence of non-hits and niches, increasing their opportunity to gain a long tail effect. Nevertheless, there is evidence of the persistence of the “superstar effect” (Coelho and Mendes 2019 ).

According to Prey et al. ( 2020 ), Spotify shows a bias towards major label content. Musicians’ success is dependent on services like Spotify. Therefore, Spotify’s preferences for major labels has caused discontent among minor labels and minor musicians.

Currently, the logic with which incumbents develop their strategy is correlated to the need for more timely approaches (Guichardaz et al. 2019 ). It is necessary to accept the competition of new technological innovations (e.g., iTunes and Spotify) and to develop suitable strategies to exploit the dynamic changes in the market (Trabucchi et al. 2017 ).

This evidence is confirmed in several studies. For example, Dellyana et al. ( 2017 ) state that the composition of actors in the music market has been changing over time. Conditions have become more dynamic, which stimulates the opportunity to increase the number of partnerships. Increasing the number of actors will change the general business model, allowing more opportunities for collaboration, including 360-degree, tailor-made partnerships; vertical integration; subscription services; pay per download; ad funded; bundles; and sponsorships. As a consequence, the many opportunities to exploit different sources of income leads actors in the industry market to develop new abilities and qualities. This modularity complicates the management of strategies and encourages the implementation of inter-firm alliances (Guichardaz et al. 2019 ). Through these collaborations, major labels are still dominating the music industry, even if independent labels and musicians can produce and distribute their music more easily and less expensively than before (Dellyana et al. 2017 ; Sun 2019 ). Major players like Spotify, Pandora, and Apple directly negotiate with the platforms to distribute artists’ music, while small labels must depend on intermediaries.

Some collaborations are, in fact, not official but extremely favorable. For example, the viral activity of fans on social media, such as YouTube, is a critical part of music stars’ strategy. Gamble et al. ( 2018 ) found that fans have an active role in the relationship between social media and the music industry. In particular, senior managers and music industry experts involved in the research argued that consumer-driven marketing campaigns can provide the best ideas regarding the execution, marketing, and managing of strategies. At the beginning of their careers, artists gain considerable advantages from social media and crowdfunding, even if fame comes as a result of their collaboration with major labels. Therefore, at the initial stage of their music success, the innovative nature of artists can be supported by fans’ activities, while at the advanced stage of their careers, artists tend to homogenize due to their involvement in the business logic of major labels business logics.

Nevertheless, evidence in the literature shows that collaborations and new business models are not the only way through which major labels react to the technological and digital changes in the market. Trabucchi et al. ( 2017 ) have shown that labels are able to re-invent old music solutions, such as CDs and vinyl, through innovations in their organizational structure and dynamic capabilities (e.g., changing their objective to entertainment enterprises), changing the meaning of their products from instruments for listening to music to collectors’ objects, and transforming the purchase process into an in-store experience. Therefore, developing dynamic capabilities seems to be the main response of major labels to the technological revolution in the music market. Changing the value proposition, capturing the new value of products, and customer orientation allow the major players to exploit the intersection between meaning and technology, thus modifying the competition among the incumbents.

4.1.3 Social networks and streaming services

Social networks have critical effects on artists’ success on online social network platforms. Communication with fun experimented a tremendous change after the digital revolution and the advent of social media. In the past, musicians used the press, television, and radio to attract fans’ interest. With social media and social networks, however, communication between artists and fans is direct. Communication with fans together with strategies that include the active sending of friend requests to fans or commenting on their posts can allow artists to control and influence their network (Ansari et al. 2018 ). Moreover, outside affiliations of artists can have a positive impact on the degree and density of networks (Ansari et al. 2018 ).

Social networks can have a dramatic effect on the consumption of music. For example, Spotify bundles music content in the form of playlists. This behavior allows Spotify to take over the market demand, reducing its dependency on major labels (Prey et al. 2020 ). Choi and Burnes ( 2017 ) studied the impact of using social media in the music industry and confirmed that social media have a considerable impact on fans’ engagement. Therefore, building solid and durable relationships and vitalizing participation should be considered a strategic focus for these firms. In the modern music market, firms cannot control value creation; therefore, they should use social media to enhance co-creation with fans, thus vitalizing their community and becoming the driving force in changing markets.

Business models in music benefit considerably from reward-based crowdfunding (Gamble et al. 2017 ), even though there is evidence suggesting that problems can arise due to young fans’ apprehension. Nevertheless, opportunities allowed by crowdfunding can help overcome limitations due to the need for constant consumer confidence. In fact, the development of partnerships with crowdfunding platforms has been increasing the opportunity for major labels to challenge the user-centric tendency of digital innovations (Gamble et al. 2017 ).

According to Arditi ( 2017 ), streaming services represent the most relevant revenue in the music industry since 2015. Streaming services are one of the most important reasons why the music industry recovered from the disaster of Napster and similar platforms for free music sharing. Indeed, streaming services are considered the (partial) solution to the decrease in music CD sales and to the increase in piracy. Moreover, there are similarities and differences between cultures about the future of streaming services. For example, Kim et al. ( 2017 ) show that US and Korean consumers prefer subscription-based on-demand streaming services and pay a higher price compared to the value of current streaming services. Nakano ( 2019 ) analyzed major US and UK outlets, recognizing that the preference of customers is for streaming services; however, there is still space for niches for which downloading is still preferred. Moreover, the existence of two major ecosystems, Android and iOS, has impeded the emergence of a dominant player to date.

Behavioral intentions connected to streaming service utilization depend on specific factors such as performance expectancy (i.e., the benefits for customers obtained by using streaming services), the degree of user-friendliness, social influence, the accessibility of resources and support, hedonic motivation, habit, and price (Barata and Coelho 2021 ). Suppliers of music services, such as streaming, should consider in-depth pricing strategies. Li et al. ( 2020 ) found that pricing strategies include advertising intensity, subscription fees, and song prices. Moreover, they considered subscription and ownership models and found that the first dominates the second only if advertisement revenues are limited. Therefore, an eventual mixed model turns to a subscription model when there are advertisement revenues, while it turns to an ownership model when revenues are higher.

The problem is to understand if the broad use of streaming services is a good thing for musicians as well. Musicians are losing control of the revenues that come from their music (Towse 2020 ). In fact, the opportunity to pursue a career based only on record sales is restricted to superstars. For example, in Norway, revenues originating from music copyrights represent only a small proportion of musicians’ earnings (about 20%). Therefore, the solution should be designed around live performance revenues. Nevertheless, the sustainability of streaming services in the long run is still debated in the literature and in professional practice.

4.1.4 Effects of background music

In-store background music produces positive and negative effects. The contradiction of scientific literature is illusory. In fact, such effects depend on the design of background music, which should adapt to the context and the service, which in turn is a critical moderator of the relationship between music and purchase intentions and customers’ in-store experience. For example, loud music has positive effects in retail settings but reduces customers’ experience in a bar. Classical, familiar, and highly recognizable music generally leads to positive effects. Nevertheless, in contexts in which they are inappropriate, the literature shows adverse consequences in terms of purchase intentions (Michel et al 2017 ).

Background music and creative support systems and their effects on consumers’ purchase intentions are fundamental to music literature (Michel et al. 2017 ). A great number of empirical studies have been undertaken to obtain improved understanding of such effects in every field. Music has positive and negative influences on consumers’ emotions within the environment in which they complete their purchases. Moreover, it is able to extend consumers’ in-store visits, promoting a name, brand, and experience that customers experiment with during their purchase process (e.g., Sassenberg et al. 2022 ). This is not limited to products but includes issues related to perceived images and positive or negative reactions to what consumers see. Klein et al. ( 2021 ) highlighted the existence of an inverse U-shaped relationship between the complexity of images and the level of appreciation that music is able to modify, promoting a better reaction to simple images. In other words, music can move consumers’ attention from complex to simple stimuli. For this reason, music can be used with simple images to stimulate and improve consumers’ purchasing experience.

Background music can be seen as a functional instrument for social control because it can change people’s behaviors and workers’ productivity, although its collateral effects are still unpredictable (Karakayali and Alpertan 2020 ). Indeed, music is a mediator of emotions and attitudes; it can modify performance and generate a significant effect in the workplace, although further in-depth analyses are needed to clarify its effects (Landay and Harms 2019 ). An important review by Landay and Harms ( 2019 ) highlighted that the relationship between the music heard and mood and negative and positive emotions is moderated by extraversion (i.e., the tendency to concentrate on gratification from outside individuals), task complexity, and listening autonomy. Moreover, they found that the link between listening to music and task performance is highly contextual and depends on “the availability of cognitive resources and the type of task” (Landay and Harms 2019 , p 379). The evidence shows that workers with more experience in selecting music for personal listening can show greater improvement in their task performance.

4.2 Live music events and performance: a renovated and segmentate phenomenon

4.2.1 the renovated interest of consumers in live performance.

The co-evolution of streaming and live music has had positive consequences for the music industry (Naveed et al. 2017 ). It allowed the recovery of the music industry and the more active participation of all stakeholders. Moreover, consumers have a more active position in the music market, demonstrating more propensity to acquire digital property, for co-creation, and for participative creativity (Naveed et al. 2017 ). In particular, consumers contribute to the creation of value even during the phases of product development and commercialization (Saragih 2019 ). In the new digitalized era in which musicians’ control of their records sales is weaker, live performance is assuming increasing importance.

In general, the analyzed literature seems to agree on consumers’ renovated interest in live performance. For example, Papies and Van Heerde ( 2017 ) confirm the positive relationship between artists’ success in records sales and their success in live performance. Nevertheless, the authors verified that the opposite relationship is weaker, as it is moderated by piracy and unbundling, even if piracy seems to be a decreasing trend in some important markets (e.g., Germany). Moreover, they found a weak correlation between quality of music and artists’ fame. Nevertheless, the evidence shows that this condition of renaissance is not common to all music genres. Pompe et al. ( 2017 ) found that classical music is experiencing a crisis, mainly because consumers say they do not have enough time to enjoy classical concerts. Therefore, the problem of how to add value to some niches is still being debated in the literature.

During the period analyzed in this literature review, Covid-19 impacted the world. In this context, quarantines obliged musicians to be part of lockdowns. Concerts and live music events were cancelled, and musicians had to face a new and challenging reality. However, some positive consequences emerged. In fact, the research showed how during the pandemic musicians started to efficiently exploit online platforms to share their music and to organize 100% online music events (e.g., Areiza-Padilla and Galindo-Becerra 2022 ). Therefore, in the future, digital platforms should be used simultaneously with physical places to share the experience of live events, capturing a wider audience and the attention of a greater number of potential consumers.

4.2.2 Experience and segmentation in festival management

Aşan et al. ( 2020 ) found that experience in music festivals depends on four specific dimensions—aesthetics, which refers to tourists’ evaluation of festivals’ physical environment; entertainment, that is, the active or passive participation of tourists in watching shows; the opportunity to escape daily life, become immersed in a different context, and live a separate experience; and education, that is, gaining new skills and knowledge from the experience of participation. The four dimensions contribute to the formation of participants’ perceived value of the festival, which is a significant mediator between experience and satisfaction. The general conditions in which festivals are organized are often complex, spontaneous, and sometimes unexpected (Laberschek et al. 2020 ). Therefore, going beyond these general dimensions is critical. Other factors should be considered to increase the value promoted by a specific music festival. Because festivals are often devoted to a particular music or art genre, segmentation is one of the most critical elements of managerial strategies.

The segmentation of music festival attendees is considered to be extremely dependent on context (Kim and Kang 2022 ). For example, Kinnunen et al. ( 2018 ) studied Finnish rhythm music festival audiences and identified three segments—omnivores and the loyal heavy tribe, which represent the oldest attendees, and the hedonistic dance crowd, which represents the youngest attendees. Mallette et al. ( 2018 ) discussed the niche example of military music festivals. The authors found two main dimensions of audience segmentation—the appeal of the event and the degree of affinity—that produce different levels of motivation to participate. Roll et al. ( 2014 ) showed the importance of place and the medium of live operas, as they are meaningful for attendees. In particular, consumers consider opera from a holistic viewpoint. Therefore, brand communication should include the fact that the meaning of results differ depending on the samples. There are examples of specific techniques of segmentation. For example, Kruger and Viljoen ( 2021 ) use psychographic segmentation to identify three distinct segments of attendees. They considered motives for attending, behavioral intentions, and global causes aimed at eradicating poverty. The research shows the relevance of segmentation in valorizing the nature, objects, and goals of music festivals.

Modern music festivals have a more general background. Therefore, attendees are of various natures and have different music preferences. Consequently, to avoid problems related to the redundancy of festivals’ organization and commercial proposals, implementing innovation is critical. Li et al. ( 2017 ) identified a strategic factor for success in implementing innovation. In particular, they distinguished between stakeholders’ satisfaction, achieved through harmonious relationships, and process efficiency, achieved through functional relationships. The greater the extent of both relational characteristics (i.e., harmony and functionality), the greater the opportunity to achieve successful innovation implementation.

4.2.3 Sustainability in music festival management

Sustainability in festival and event management is closely related to the three traditional dimensions—economic, social, and environmental. Some studies have been devoted to sustainability management to achieve a better understanding of the actual interest of managers in the best practices for fostering the sustainable management of events. For example, Wickham et al. ( 2021 ) performed a qualitative analysis of 10 international music events and identified 14 best practices connected to sustainability. Economic sustainability was associated with attracting financial capital, artists, and performers; maintaining permanent management; and the reporting of event-related benefits. Social sustainability was associated with attracting experts and influential educators; the supply chain; and the reporting of event-related social benefits. Finally, environmental sustainability was associated with attendees and the behavior of supply chain partners.

At the same time, the research has clarified that the benefits connected to music festivals (e.g., financial and social benefits) are overestimated by participants and urban communities. Nevertheless, eventual negative effects, such as pollution, parking difficulties, and traffic congestion, are often anticipated and resolved by festival promoters (Han et al. 2017 ).

However, sustainability seems not to be a priority of music festivals. Dodds et al. ( 2020 ) found that 64% of Canadian music festivals included in their sample did not communicate about their sustainability practices. Moreover, only 6% of them concentrated their sustainability campaign on social media, even though the literature shows that active communication is critical for developing and maintaining good relationships with participants (Luonila and Kinnunen 2019 ). Contemporary music festivals have critical socio-spatial consequences and meanings; consumers try to co-create authentic experiences from their participation, even though the nature of such experiences can be considered a commercial imperative (Szmigin et al. 2017 ). Co-creation was connected to the sustainability of festivals in the work of Werner et al. ( 2019 ), who identified three categories of festivals attendees—the sustainable co-creation type, focused on the creation of an altruistic environment; the experience co-creation type, focused on the contradiction between real life and the experience of festivals; and the calculating co-creation type, who weight the processes of giving and acquiring value from the experience of festivals. In this sense, the benefits associated with music festivals are co-created by both attendees and organizers. Therefore, identifying the most relevant stakeholders is critical for the diffusion of the idea of festival sustainability.

Relationships and collaboration between festival managers and stakeholders, including the attendees’ perspectives, can foster the incorporation of sustainability practices. According to Hazel and Mason ( 2020 ), if sustainability is defined as a core value of music festivals, forms of collaboration such as sponsorship contracts can encourage the development of relationships among stakeholders who share the same sustainable values. Therefore, identifying the right stakeholders can bolster festivals’ financial and cultural components, as well help integrate the original value of festivals and sustainability needs (Hazel and Mason 2020 ; Richardson 2018 ).

4.3 Musicians: identity and business models in the digital era

4.3.1 the complex nature of musicians’ identity.

The identity of musicians in the modern competitive music industry has been widely discussed in the literature. Schediwy et al. ( 2018 ) identified the dualistic nature of the scientific debate. On one hand, there is a considerable number of contributions that glorify the bohemian nature of the music profession. On the other hand, other papers recognize that assuming an entrepreneurial attitude is an unavoidable need for musicians. Moreover, keeping a stable identity is challenging for musicians, due to the instability of income, uncertainty, and exploitative tendencies in the market.

Schediwy et al. ( 2018 ) found that the separation between the bohemian and the entrepreneurial identity of musicians is less evident in young musicians. In particular, two factors contribute to the formation of musicians’ identity, open-mindedness and career-mindedness, which combine the bohemian nature of the music profession with the necessary market orientation.

The relationship between musicians’ artistic and entrepreneurial identity has been recently studied by Pizzolitto ( 2021 ). His research revealed the profound dilemma between musicians’ traditional view of the art and the necessity to change and adapt their business models depending on the economic conditions. Everts and Haynes ( 2021 ) studied the contexts of the British and Dutch music markets and found that musicians’ entrepreneurial identity is based on the rapid change of musical contexts and local contexts. The Netherlands has been building an institutionalized pathway to let musicians’ artistic needs meet their entrepreneurial sensibility. Nevertheless, according to their research, the conditions that musicians have to face in pursuing their music careers are extremely complex. For example, opportunities are inversely proportional to the number of young aspiring musicians; only a small proportion of musicians achieve a successful career; and digitalization, which seemed to be a possible way to increase the number of successful independent musicians, will probably reduce their opportunities over time.

This tendency is quite common in the world. Güven ( 2020 ) considered the music environment in Turkey and found that musicians there are experiencing increasing difficulties in their creative work. In fact, they do not talk about solidarity in the music world. Instead, they talk of the increasing commodification of music where solid experience and career building seem to be an illusion. Therefore, we have to ask why there are always more young people trying to establish a career in music (Everts and Haynes 2021 ).

4.3.2 The changing and multifaced business models of musicians

Musicians need to diversify their business models by composing, producing, and distributing their music. Given the degree of technological evolution, understanding the future of independent musicians’ business models is complicated. A considerable number of musicians have experienced a decline after the digital revolution in terms of professional studio performance and recording (Herbst and Albrecht 2018 ). Nevertheless, in this framework, music is the principal service in a portfolio of services entirely managed by musicians (Eiriz and Leite 2017 ). Therefore, even if a musician’s self-image and career goals remained the same before and after the digital revolution, there is a general consensus in the music market regarding the fact that the way to achieve career objectives has changed (Schwetter 2016 ).

In new business models, collaboration and cooperation between governmental and non-governmental organizations, among different kinds of art and culture, and among artists seems to guarantee partial independence from record contracts (Ibrahimova 2019 ). For example, in the hip hop environment, Carter and Welsh ( 2018 ) found that collaboration among rappers increases their visibility. Among hip hop artists, there is a tendency to abandon record contracts to pursue a solitary career. A specific example is Alessandro Aleotti (alias J Ax) in Italy who in 2013 decided to quit his contract with New Sound and start his own record label called Newtopia with another famous Italian hip hop artist, Federico Leonard Lucia (alias Fedez).

The choices of independent musicians and labels about where and what to record are extremely contextual and related to the need for non-traditional recording locations (Walzer 2016 ). The role of musicians, producers, and labels are often linked and therefore confused. Consequently, the quantification of their contribution to the production of independent music is complex. Nevertheless, the evidence shows that producers’, musicians’, and sound engineers’ contributions are critical for communication during the decision-making process (Walzer 2016 ).

In summary, the evidence in the literature underlines the complexity of the music market for musicians. This precondition could lead to the reasonable conclusion that musicians should dedicate much more time to the commercial side of their work. Nevertheless, and counterintuitively, publications show that musicians still devote most of their time to creative work. Everts et al. ( 2021 ) studied the early career experiences of Dutch musicians and found that the strong dynamicity of the music industry does not change the perceived high value of being musicians. In fact, musicians do not spend their time trying to boost their position on social networks because they perceive that the funds needed to flourish in that environment are becoming prohibitive. Therefore, they devote their time to creation and to the development of their fan base outside the internet. Finally, they show to enjoy the entrepreneurial part of their activity.

Consequently, the digital revolution, together with the persisting situation of oligopoly in the market, allowed musicians to abandon the idea of record contracts and to embrace self-promotion through self-publishing and self-management (Schwetter 2016 ). The instability of direct revenue experienced by independent musicians and labels resulted in a substantial change after the digital revolution. The digitalization of music had a dramatic impact on musicians’ activity, particularly for independent musicians who are becoming more than composers and who are developing entrepreneurial skills that were traditionally the purview of labels and agencies (Eiriz and Leite 2017 ). Moreover, laws and regulation for the management of copyright have been designed to improve consumers’ interests and rights and show weakness in the connection between copyright and the collective needs of management organizations, thus resulting in an unfair advantage for major labels (Schroff and Street 2017 ).

5 Future research opportunities

Based on the content analysis in the previous section, multiple future research opportunities can be identified. These opportunities emerge with the same distribution as the themes and subthemes from the grounded theory analysis. Table 1 presents a summary of the most relevant research questions that have been deduced from the articles’ contents.

Concerning the role of digitalization in the revolution of the music market, the analysis showed that it contributed to recovering from the previous period of stagnation (e.g., Dellyana et al. 2017 ). Therefore, future research can examine the contribution of specific factors that may or may not be connected with the technological revolution in more depth. In particular, it can concentrate more on the new forms of financing (e.g., crowdfunding) and their influence on the growth of the music industry. Moreover, researchers can perform in-depth analysis of the determinants of the major labels’ ability to maintain their leadership position after the digital revolution (Guichardaz et al. 2019 ). In particular, researchers can concentrate on the effect of a set of variables that exclude financial logic. Furthermore, as this market condition allows two different levels of competition, researchers could focus on the commonalities and differences that can emerge from the study of this dualism.

Trabucchi et al. ( 2017 ) reflected on the opportunity for artists and labels to base their competition strategies on the concept of “meaning.” More conceptual papers on this topic should be published to allow music actors to embrace new strategies connected to this concept. In particular, theoretical articles could help artists and labels better connect their visions, missions, and brands in a practical execution of “meaning” for their products.

Concerning the position of major labels and their permanent leadership position in the market, research on this is based on consumers’ expectations about hedonic performances (Chen et al. 2018 ). In particular, the logic of differentiation could reduce the distance between the two levels of competition that emerged in the music market. Therefore, more research on single case studies is needed to understand what elements allow minor artists to emerge without having access to major artists’ financial and power-related assets. Specifically, research should concentrate on the conditions that allow the reduction or elimination of barriers that traditionally impede the emergence of minor artists and labels (e.g., Pillai et al. 2021 ; Walzer 2016 ). Finally, researchers should help minor labels and artists find better applications of existing technologies characterized by low costs.

One of the positive effects of the digital revolution is that the available technology allows artists and producers to be more creative in their work. Therefore, new variables have started to affect the basis of consumers’ access to music listening. Even if research has found some interesting connections between critical variables (e.g., advertising and reservation; Li et al. 2020 ) and the new forms of consumer access to music listening, more empirical research and case studies are needed to fully understand this phenomenon. Moreover, technology has made consumer research related to music easier and more efficient. Nevertheless, it seems that this condition has not changed the general competition in the music market. Therefore, more empirical research is needed to understand the mediators and moderators of consumers’ opportunities to satisfy their music needs via alternative music and independent artists. In other words, research should study new methods for improving the opportunities for minor artists and independent labels using the existing technological instruments.

Concerning the negative effects of the digital revolution on the music markets, research has focused on the complex conditions of local record and music stores. In this regard, more conceptual papers are needed to evaluate new forms of experiential content through which local record stores can overcome the current crisis. Moreover, empirical analyses should be performed to obtain a deeper understanding of the cultural elements that increase consumers’ tendency to avoid traditional purchasing methods.

Multiple papers have debated the role of music festivals in business and management studies. Music festivals are widely recognized as complex phenomena in which the management instruments needed to achieve results should be organized and planned using holistic and innovative logic (Laberschek et al. 2020 ). Empirical research in this field has been sufficiently developed, and the literature indirectly calls for more conceptual studies. Specifically, it seems that in this field, practice is more advanced and faster compared with theory. Therefore, theoretical research should concentrate on multidisciplinary issues to ensure that festival managers have opportunities to build their style while drawing on solid and consolidated theoretical foundations; this will limit the chaotic and unpredictable events occurring in festivals at present.

First, the theoretical papers concentrate on the connection between chaos theory and management, applying these connections to music festival management. It is necessary to theorize new advancements in chaos management before they are applied in practice. Music festival management needs to refer to innovative and challenging management theory to develop new methods of obtaining economic, financial, social, and sustainable results from the event organization.

Second, conceptual research should be performed to increase the understanding of elements that improve consumers’ experience during festivals. Theorizing about management methods for niche festivals in which a specific kind of music is considered can help organizations stimulate consumers’ experience. In particular, theoretical studies of the foundation of the internationalization of festivals referring specifically to niche festivals can be critical for finding solutions to management issues (da Cunha Brandão and Oliveira 2019 ).

Third, the literature firmly calls for a better understanding of the conceptual foundations of the concept of value in music festivals. Holism, post-co-creativism, and the control of socioeconomic turbulence and chaotic issues related to the management of festivals are widely recognized as powerful instruments for value creation (e.g., Gozini and Tseane-Gumbi 2017 ; Robertson et al. 2018 ). Moreover, co-creation and co-innovation seem to play a critical role in the panorama of actors involved in these events. Similar practical consideration represents a strong call for pushing conceptual analyses to a higher level; in this way, management theory can overcome the limitations of being directly connected to managerial practices and can achieve a superior stage of abstraction.

In addition to the need for theoretical research, more empirical research is needed on the role of the music market in sustainability issues. There is still a distance between the sincere interest in sustainability management and its realization (e.g., Richardson 2019 ; Raffay-Danyi and Formadi 2022 ). Therefore, empirical research should consider single and multiple case studies concerning the positive effect on consumers’ experience and the benefits resulting from the application of sustainability management practices. A case study should be performed using longitudinal logic to highlight differences in terms of praxis and results and to guide future management when it comes to investing time and resources in implementing such logic efficiently.

Finally, the literature revealed considerable interest in the dualism between music and profits. The problem of musicians being reluctant to be considered entrepreneurs has been studied in a number of empirical publications. A possible promising lens for analysis could come from the psychological theory of professional identity (e.g., Marcia 1966 ). In particular, the literature could benefit from more qualitative research based on in-depth interviews and surveys analyzing the status of musicians’ identities in depth. The final aim of this research is to understand what identity status can lead musicians to overcome the obstacle of their reluctance to consider music in the same manner as all other fields. In this sense, more historical research could be beneficial to overcome the dualism between art and entrepreneurship. Harbor ( 2020 ) demonstrated that a considerable number of marketing interventions were used during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries to promote music concerts and the arts. More historical references to the connection between entrepreneurship and the arts could be helpful in overcoming this problematic dualism.

6 Discussion and managerial implications

In the last decade, the music market has been greatly affected by the digital revolution, and technology has caused profound internal changes. This revolution has increased the opportunity for the diffusion of music through several services, means, and platforms, even though the oligopoly of major labels has continued to dominate the market. Nevertheless, the exploitation of these new opportunities is limited by the high level of financial and technical resources needed to access innovative technologies. Therefore, although the digital revolution has increased opportunities for minor artists and labels, the competition is still divided into two levels—the oligopoly of major labels and artists and the super competition of minor labels and artists. To overcome this limitation, futuristic strategies need to be conceptualized and operationalized, and most probably they will be based on the concept of “meaning” (Trabucchi et al. 2017 ).

Papies and van Heerde ( 2017 ) identified concerts as one of the most powerful instruments through which minor artists can improve their opportunities to flourish. The empirical literature concentrates on understanding the effects of specific management styles on the organization of events and festivals. Therefore, there is evidence of the fundamental role that concerts and live events will play in the future. Events are seen as chaotic and complex phenomena in which managerial styles cannot be centered on the organization but have to be based on co-creation and co-innovation, promoting revolutionary organization initiatives to enhance opportunities for minor artists and labels to emerge and succeed. Co-creation and co-innovation should be achieved through the involvement of musicians, record labels, and consumers, resulting in a mutually useful network in which access to high levels of financial resources is not an issue. In this sense, the philosophy through which musicians should interpret their role in society has to change in order to promote their role as self-entrepreneurs and to develop their business identity.

This review led to the identification of numerous managerial implications, mainly concentrated on event and store management, sustainable management logic, and the condition of musicians in the market. In terms of improving consumer engagement, managers should place more emphasis on consumers’ preferences than on the cost of performance (Kim et al. 2022 ). The literature highlights that consumers are still interested in the principal product of the music market— music (Papies and van Heerde 2017 ). In this sense, particular attention has to be paid to music festivals and events. During festivals, the aesthetic of the offering has been recognized as a fundamental factor in achieving the events’ objectives. Furthermore, surprising consumers with unique stimuli is critical to increase their engagement (Loureiro et al. 2021 ). In fact, organizations should challenge the status quo by collecting as much information as possible on the changing nature of their audiences. Hiring a community manager who conducts research on social media and promotes events depending on the participants’ preferences can be a strategic factor in improving the quality of integrated communication between organizations and consumers and in increasing loyalty among attendees (Llopis-Amorós et al. 2018 ). Moreover, managers should go beyond adapting their organizations to the changes related to social media platforms and should build solid relationships with their customers, thus increasing the opportunity to achieve greater loyalty and improving their opportunity to involve consumers in the process of co-creation (Choi and Burnes 2017 ).

The literature discusses sustainable management logic. In general, overcoming the traditional barriers and roles in management logic seems to be fundamental for the future of marketing strategies in this field (Vendrell-Herrero 2018 ). In particular, Kullak et al. ( 2021 ) suggested that managers of minor organizations should develop and coordinate a network in which actors have access to relevant resources. Moreover, as there is evidence about the difficult conditions of advertisement-related returns, music suppliers should differentiate their policies depending on this variable. Li et al. ( 2020 ) recommended that managers should choose an ownership, subscription, or mixed-pricing model according to their level of advertisement returns.

Sustainable management in music should be achieved through improving communication between suppliers and customers. In particular, it is perceived as critical to develop technological tools to allow for the establishment and maintenance of a relationship between distributors and consumers (Tran et al. 2018 ). In this sense, the literature recognizes that the technological revolution is one of the most important opportunities for music managers to change their organizational logic. Technology “favour[s] smaller, more flexible companies that are more conducive to innovation” (Renard and Hallam 2018 , p 182). Firms should put their traditional models and decision-making procedures under review, concentrating on changing definition of “meaning” that music consumers adopt over time (Trabucchi et al. 2017 ).

The problem of sustainability has also been analyzed in light of the difficulties that small music enterprises face when it comes to accessing high levels of financial support. For example, Andersén et al. ( 2019 ) showed that to improve their growth opportunities, small firms can exploit their relationships with environmental-oriented suppliers and their ability to develop green purchasing capabilities. The sustainable management logic also relates to an improvement in the congruency between in-store background music and the purchase experience that sellers want their customers to have. The literature highlights the importance of the correlation between advertising, music, and all other stimuli and environments in which purchasing takes place (Michel et al. 2017 ). In fact, the correct combination of music and advertising can be useful for changing brand perceptions. For example, an intense sound and low pitch can communicate masculinity, whereas high-pitched sounds can communicate femininity (Zoghaib 2019 ). Moreover, empirical evidence has shown that major tones and faster tempos improve the purchase experience (Liu et al. 2022 ). Music associated with different levels of arousal can be used to manipulate consumers’ feelings; for instance, uncomfortable situations can be smoothed out through background music characterized by low levels of arousal (Roy and Das 2022 ). Stable tonal structures can induce cheerfulness, whereas unstable tonal structures communicate sadness (Zoghaib 2019 ). Therefore, if sellers want to prolong consumers’ purchasing experiences and in-store visits, they should choose music of a low tempo and volume (Michel et al. 2017 ).

The literature discusses the position of musicians in the music business. In particular, various articles debate the opportunities that music allows professionals depending on their level of popularity. For example, Papies and van Heerde ( 2017 ) observed that concerts are critical for both famous musicians and musicians who are not famous. For famous musicians, concerts represent an opportunity to consolidate their position in the market. For less famous artists, concerts should be considered marketing strategies to increase their popularity, that is, as launching pads for their future careers.

7 Conclusions

Music comprises a dynamic, complex, and chaotic environment in which futuristic management styles and co-creation, co-innovation, and post co-creation logics should be considered in planning and operationalizing strategies at every level of competition. Although the digital revolution has transformed many aspects of the music business and management, several issues continue to limit its evolution. This SLR clarified that in the future, a considerably relevant role will be played by events, festivals, and concerts whereby innovative managerial styles can overcome the complex conditions of minor artists and labels and allow them to flourish. Nevertheless, the picture of music generated from the literature is still evolving. The future of the field seems to demand higher levels of philosophy around business issues and management styles through which obstacles relating to the position of musicians as entrepreneurs will be overcome, and products will be considered for their meaning rather than for their cost.

Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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Pizzolitto, E. Music in business and management studies: a systematic literature review and research agenda. Manag Rev Q (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11301-023-00339-3

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This master of arts program combines the unparalleled artistic resources of New York City with cross-disciplinary course work – you will take business courses at the NYU Stern School of Business. Study with industry leaders and learn the necessary skills to become a leader in today’s global music marketplace. A concentration in Music Technology is also available, which will develop your knowledge of audio for games and other interactive applications, sound design in digital music, and other emerging platforms. 

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431 Music Essay Topics & Ideas

5 December 2023

last updated

Music essay topics explore diverse areas of music for academic or personal writing. This comprehensive collection of ideas encourages intellectual curiosity with topics ranging from historical musicology to contemporary pop culture. It also offers thematic ideas, like examining musical elements, understanding music’s societal influences, or analyzing distinct music genres. Aspiring musicologists, students, or avid music enthusiasts will find this article highly valuable for its broad spectrum and adaptable nature, suitable for various writing levels and interests. In this case, people delve deeper into music’s rich legacy, challenging them to form original perspectives and contribute to the larger discourse on music. Hence, this article on many music essay topics is a valid resource for unlocking the academic and artistic potential of music.

Hot Music Essay Topics

• The Cultural Impact of British Invasion Bands in the 1960s
• Decoding the Evolution of Hip-Hop from the 1970s to Today
• How Music Streaming Platforms are Revolutionizing the Music Industry
• The Role of Music in Social Movements: A Deep Dive into the Civil Rights Era
• The Pervasive Influence of Jazz on Contemporary Music Genres
• Punk Rock as the Soundtrack of Rebellion and its Sociopolitical Significance
• Exploring the Cultural Phenomenon of Woodstock: Music, Counterculture, and Legacy
• A Comprehensive Review of the Effect of Music Therapy on Mental Health
• An Analysis of Melody and Harmony in Classical Music
• Unraveling the Relationship Between Music and Identity from a Psychological Perspective
• Music Meets Technology: The Evolution of Synthesizers in Electronic Music
• Behind the Scenes and Processes of the Music Business: The Role of Record Labels
• The Cultural Appropriation Controversy in the Realm of Popular Music
• Tracing the Influence of African Music on American Blues and Jazz
• The Impact of MTV and Music Videos on the Landscape of Pop Culture
• A Review of Music Censorship: Historical Cases and Modern Challenges
• Women in the Music Industry: Understanding the Barriers and Celebrating the Breakthroughs
• The Effect of Globalization on the Dissemination of Non-Western Music Genres
• The Role and Impact of Music in Education: An Examination of School Music Programs
• The Beatles vs. The Rolling Stones: A Comparative Analysis of Musical Style and Influence

Easy Music Essay Topics

• Evolution of Pop Music Genre in the 21st Century
• Impact of Technology on Music Production
• Influence of Classical Music on Modern Genres
• Societal Relevance of Protest Songs in History
• Examining the Relationship Between Music and Emotion
• Significance of Traditional Music in Cultural Identity
• Rap Music’s Influence on Youth Culture
• Beatles’ Effect on Rock ‘n’ Roll Development
• Comparison Between Baroque and Renaissance Music
• Exploration of Music Therapy and Its Benefits
• Film Scores: Music’s Pivotal Role in Cinema
• Interrelation between Dance and Rhythm in Music
• Globalization’s Impact on World Music Genres
• Cultural Representation in Broadway Musicals
• Feminism in Pop Music: Empowering or Exploitative?
• Genre Fusion: How Reggae Influenced Hip-Hop
• Psychological Effects of Music on Human Behavior
• Depiction of Love in Country Music Lyrics
• Dissecting the Business Model of Streaming Services in the Music Industry

Interesting Music Essay Topics

• Unraveling the Impact of Music on Cognitive Development
• Globalization and Its Influence on Music Genres
• History and Evolution of Jazz: A Cultural Perspective
• Healing Powers of Music: Fact or Fiction?
• Pop Culture’s Influence on Contemporary Music
• The Role of Music in Social Movements
• Analyzing the Cultural Significance of Hip-Hop
• The Science Behind Music’s Effect on Mood
• Exploring the Artistic Value of Album Cover Designs
• Autotune and Digitization: Blessing or Curse for the Music Industry?
• Representation of Gender and Sexuality in Pop Music
• Ethical Implications of Music Streaming Services
• The Connection Between Music and Emotions: A Psychological Analysis
• Evolution of Music Production Techniques: A Technological Study
• Indie Music Scene: A Study of Its Growth and Impact
• Music Festivals: Economic and Cultural Implications
• Music Education: Its Importance in Schools
• Role of Music in Film and Television: A Comprehensive Analysis
• The Phenomenon of K-Pop: Cultural Exchange and Globalization
• Copyright Laws and Their Impact on the Music Industry

100 General Music Essay Topics

• The Future of Music: Exploring AI and Machine Learning
• Nurturing Music Education in Schools
• Ethical Considerations in Music Piracy
• Women in the Music Industry: Breaking Barriers and Empowering Change
• Reggae’s Global Impact on Music Styles
• Unveiling the Popularity of K-Pop
• Music’s Impact on Cognitive Development
• Music Censorship: Perspectives from Around the World
• Cultural Identity Formation and the Power of Music
• The Interplay of Music and Politics
• The Cinematic Power of Music: Exploring Soundtracks
• The Music Festival Business: Strategies and Successes
• The Emergence of Indie Music: A New Era of Creativity
• Latin Music’s Influence on Global Pop Culture
• Music’s Role in Enhancing Physical Performance
• The Science Behind Sound: An Introduction to Acoustics
• Exploring the History of Electronic Music
• The British Invasion’s Impact on American Music
• Music’s Therapeutic Role: Healing and Transforming Lives
• Boy Bands and Girl Groups: Cultural Phenomena in Music
• Motown Records: Shaping Music and Culture
• Country Music’s Influence on American Identity
• The Sociology of Music: Exploring Fan Culture and Subcultures
• Music’s Emotional Power: Understanding Mood and Emotion
• The Evolution of Music Videos: From MTV to YouTube
• Reviving Vinyl Records in the Digital Age
• The Beatles’ Enduring Legacy in Modern Music
• Streaming Services and the Changing Landscape of Music Consumption
• Unraveling the Psychology of Musical Preferences
• Music Globalization: Bridging Cultures and Connecting Hearts
• Music’s Role in Spiritual and Religious Practices
• The Fusion of Music and Visual Arts
• Music and Mindfulness: Exploring Meditation and Sound
• Blues Music: A Cultural Significance
• Opera’s Influence on Modern Theatrical Music
• Transforming Music Production in the Digital Era
• Music’s Impact on Childhood Development
• Rock and Roll: Revolutionizing Social Change
• Ethnomusicology: Understanding Music in Cultural Context
• The Complex Relationship Between Music and Violence
• Music’s Role in Promoting Social Inclusion
• Punk Music’s Impact on Youth Culture: Rebellion, Expression, and Identity
• Copyright Laws in Music: Balancing Protection and Creativity
• Harnessing the Power of Music in Advertising: Soundtracks, Emotions, and Branding
• LGBTQ+ Representation in the Music Industry: Breaking Barriers and Amplifying Voices
• The Influence of Gospel Music on the R&B and Soul Genres: Roots and Inspirations
• Music’s Cultural Role in Indigenous Communities: Tradition, Identity, and Resilience
• Music’s Impact on Workplace Productivity: Boosting Focus, Motivation, and Performance
• Disco’s Influence on Dance Music: Rhythm, Groove, and Dancefloor Revolution
• Music as a Voice of Protest: From Folk Anthems to Punk Anthems
• Grunge Music: The Rise of Alternative Rock and Its Lasting Impact
• Music Sampling: Artistic Innovation or Plagiarism Debate?
• The Influence of Rap Music on Modern Poetry: Rhyme, Rhythm, and Social Commentary
• Music Technology’s Impact on Live Performances: Innovation, Integration, and Audience Experience
• Music’s Narration in Film: Enhancing Emotion, Atmosphere, and Storytelling
• The Evolution of Music Genres: Shaping Sounds, Styles, and Cultural Trends
• From Vinyl to Digital: Exploring the Art of DJing and Its Technological Transformations
• Music’s Role in Language Learning: Enhancing Linguistic Skills and Cultural Understanding
• Music’s Contribution to Raising Awareness of Sustainable Development Goals
• Exploring the Frontier of Music in Virtual Reality: Immersive Experiences and Creative Possibilities
• The Role of Music in Video Games: Immersion, Atmosphere, and Player Engagement
• Evolving Children’s Music: From Traditional Rhymes to Educational Entertainment
• The Impact of Online Channels and Social Media on Music Promotion: Reaching Audiences, Building Communities
• Classical Music’s Influence on Cognitive Abilities: Memory, Focus, and Mental Development
• Flamenco Music’s Cultural Significance: Expressing Passion, Heritage, and Identity
• The Evolution and Impact of Music Television Channels: Shaping Popular Culture and Music Consumption
• Folk Music’s Influence on Modern Singer-Songwriters: Traditions, Storytelling, and Contemporary Expressions
• Music’s Therapeutic Role in Dementia and Alzheimer’s Treatment: Memory, Connection, and Quality of Life
• Broadway Musicals’ Influence on Popular Culture: Theatrical Magic, Showmanship, and Entertainment
• The #MeToo Movement’s Impact on the Music Industry: Addressing Abuse, Empowering Change
• Music’s Role in Teenage Identity Formation: Expression, Belonging, and Self-Discovery
• African American Music Evolution: From Spirituals to Hip-Hop
• The History and Influence of Bollywood Music: Celebrating India’s Cinematic Melodies
• Music Genres’ Effect on Exercise Performance: Rhythm, Tempo, and Motivation
• Music’s Role in Climate Change Awareness: Advocacy, Inspiration, and Environmental Impact
• Heavy Metal Music: Evolution, Subgenres, and Cultural Influence
• Mariachi Music’s Cultural Significance: Tradition, Celebration, and Mexican Heritage
• Technology’s Influence on Music Creation: Digital Tools, Production Techniques, and Creative Possibilities
• Music’s Role in Autism Therapy: Communication, Expression, and Emotional Support
• Music’s Impact on Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Relaxation, Mindfulness, and Wellness
• The Influence of Music on Sleep Quality: Relaxation, Sleep Patterns, and Sleep Hygiene
• Evolving Music Criticism in the Digital Age: From Print to Online Platforms
• Music’s Role in Multicultural Education: Celebrating Diversity, Promoting Inclusion
• The History and Influence of Salsa Music: Rhythm, Dance, and Cultural Fusion
• Music’s Impact on Consumer Behavior in Retail: Atmosphere, Branding, and Purchase Decisions
• Music’s Influence on Memory Recall: Soundtracks, Nostalgia, and Emotional Connections
• Music’s Role in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment: Healing, Coping, and Resilience
• The History and Influence of J-Pop Music: Pop Culture, Fashion, and Global Fanbase
• The Impact of Music on Early Childhood Education: Development, Learning, and Creativity
• Music’s Influence on the Perception of Time: Tempo, Rhythm, and Psychological Effects
• Music’s Role in Community Development: Collaboration, Empowerment, and Social Change
• Psychedelic Rock’s Influence on Contemporary Music: Innovation, Counterculture, and Sonic Exploration
• Rehabilitation and Recovery: The Transformative Role of Music
• Reggaeton Music: Cultural Origins, Influence, and Global Reach
• Music’s Impact on Neuroplasticity: Brain Development, Learning, and Cognitive Abilities
• Celtic Music’s Influence on Modern Folk Genres: Traditions, Melodies, and Cultural Connections
• The Creative Spark: Music’s Role in Enhancing Creativity
• Swing Music: The History, Style, and Enduring Appeal
• The Role of Music in Pain Management: Soothing, Distraction, and Therapeutic Effects
• Ambient Music’s Influence on Relaxation and Mindfulness: Creating Tranquil Soundscapes

Argumentative Music Essay Topics

• Pop Music’s Influence on Youth: Impact or Exploitation?
• The Appropriation vs. Appreciation Debate in Music
• Evaluating the Effects of Digital Streaming on Artists’ Earnings
• Autotune: Enhancing Music or Undermining Talent?
• Exploitation in the Music Industry: A Reality Check
• Does Music Genre Define Individual Personality Traits?
• Impact of Explicit Content in Music: Artistic Freedom or Harmful Influence?
• Music Censorship: Necessary Measure or Infringement of Rights?
• Should Music Education Be Mandatory in Schools?
• Influence of Western Music on Other Cultures: Cultural Exchange or Dominance?
• The Commercialization of Indie Music: Evolution or Degradation?
• Are Reality Music Shows Truly Beneficial for Aspiring Musicians?
• Music Therapy: Genuine Healing Method or Placebo Effect?
• Classical Music’s Relevance in the Modern Era: Declining or Evolving?
• The Ethics of Sampling in Modern Music Production
• Role of Music in Film: Essential Component or Marketing Tactic?
• Is The Popularity of an Artist Reflective of Their Musical Talent?
• Music Piracy: Fair Use or Unfair Practice?
• Do Music Festivals Promote Cultural Integration or Commodification?
• Boy Bands Phenomenon: Musical Skill or Mere Fan Frenzy?

Research Music Essay Topics

• Analyzing the Evolution of Punk Rock Music
• The Role of Folk Music in Preserving Cultural Heritage
• Impacts of Technology on Music Production and Distribution
• Understanding the Psychological Effects of Music Therapy
• Classical Music: Its Influence on Modern Genres
• Musical Improvisation: An Analysis of Jazz and Blues
• The Impact of Social Issues on Hip-Hop Lyrics
• Exploring the Economic Aspects of the Music Industry
• Evolution of Music Videos: Artistic Expression or Commercial Endeavor?
• The Effect of Digital Streaming on Independent Musicians
• The Phenomenon of Boy Bands: Sociocultural Aspects
• Censorship in Music: A Comparative Study Across Nations
• Evaluating the Role of Soundtracks in Movies
• Impact of Music Education on Child Development
• The Relationship Between Dance and Music: A Cultural Exploration
• Gender Representation in Music: A Critical Analysis
• The Influence of Latin Music on Popular Culture
• Ethnomusicology: Studying Music in Its Cultural Context
• The Role of Music in Historical Events and Movements

World Music Essay Topics

• African Music Traditions: Influence and Evolution
• The Role of Music in Indigenous Cultures
• Exploring the Diversity of Asian Music Genres
• Flamenco: An Insight into Spanish Music and Dance
• Celtic Music: Its Roots and Influence on Contemporary Genres
• The Impact of Reggae on Global Music Culture
• Analyzing the Musical Elements of Bollywood Film Scores
• Samba: The Rhythmic Heartbeat of Brazil
• Origins and Development of American Blues Music
• Middle Eastern Music: Exploring Its Unique Characteristics
• The Cultural Significance of Australian Aboriginal Music
• Understanding the Evolution of European Classical Music
• The Role of Music in Caribbean Festivals and Celebrations
• The Influence of French Chanson on Popular Music
• Traditional Music’s Role in Cultural Preservation: Case Study of Japanese Gagaku
• The Impact of Greek Folk Music on Mediterranean Musical Traditions
• The Intersection of Music and Religion in Indian Ragas
• Exploring the Cultural Diversity in Mexican Music
• The Historical Evolution of Russian Folk Music
• Musical Instruments and Their Role in Defining Cultural Identity: The African Djembe as a Case Study

Hip-Hop Music Essay Topics

• Hip-Hop: A Powerful Medium for Social Commentary
• Examining the Influence of Hip-Hop on Fashion Trends
• Roles of Sampling in the Artistic Identity of Hip-Hop
• Exploring the Controversy: Does Hip-Hop Promote Violence?
• The Cultural Significance of Beatboxing in Hip-Hop
• Analyzing the Impact of Hip-Hop on Language and Slang
• The Influence of Hip-Hop on Pop Culture
• Feminism in Hip-Hop: Progress and Challenges
• How Does Hip-Hop Music Address Racial Issues?
• The Economics of the Hip-Hop Industry
• Evolution of Dance Styles in Hip-Hop Culture
• Hip-Hop’s Influence on Mental Health Discourse
• East Coast vs. West Coast: The Hip-Hop Rivalry
• The Impact of Digital Platforms on Hip-Hop Music Distribution
• Analyzing the Role of DJs in Hip-Hop Culture
• Hip-Hop and Its Influence on Global Music Genres
• The Commercialization of Hip-Hop: Artistic Freedom or Selling Out?
• Autobiographical Storytelling in Hip-Hop: A Tool for Empowerment

Pop Music Essay Topics

• Gender Representation in the Pop Music Industry
• The Global Impact of K-Pop: An Unstoppable Phenomenon
• Influence of Pop Music on Teenagers’ Attitudes and Behaviors
• Autotune: Enhancement or Detriment to Pop Music?
• The Role of Music Videos in the Pop Culture Landscape
• Analyzing the Success of Boy Bands in Pop Music
• Cultural Appropriation Concerns in the Pop Music Industry
• Power Dynamics: Examining the Business Behind Pop Music
• How Social Media Transformed Pop Music Stardom
• From Pop Divas to Feminist Icons: A Shift in Representation
• Latin Pop’s Rising Influence on the Global Music Scene
• Pop Music Lyrics: Reflection of Social Issues or Simple Entertainment?
• Technology’s Role in Shaping the Sound of Modern Pop Music
• Science of a Pop Hit: Factors that Influence Chart Success
• Mental Health and Its Portrayal in Pop Music
• Pop Music Collaborations: A Marketing Strategy or Artistic Choice?
• The Influence of Western Pop Music in Non-Western Countries
• Exploring the Relationship Between Pop Music and Dance
• The Ethical Implications of Sampling in Pop Music

Rock Music Essay Topics

• The Crossroads of Rock and Pop: Evolution of Pop Rock
• Grunge Rock: Its Origins, Influence, and Decline
• Influence of Rock Music on Fashion Trends Over the Decades
• The Role of Rebellion Themes in Rock Music
• Gender Representation and Dynamics in Rock Music
• The Significance of Live Performances in the Rock Music Scene
• The Fusion of Blues and Rock: A Historical Overview
• How Technological Advances Shaped the Sound of Rock Music
• Rock Music as a Tool for Social Activism and Change
• Psychedelic Rock and Its Effect on the Music Industry
• Heavy Metal: A Subgenre of Rock Music with Distinctive Features
• How Has Punk Rock Challenged Mainstream Music Norms?
• Rock Music in Movies: Enhancing Narrative and Emotion
• Analyzing the Pioneers of Rock and Roll: Their Legacy and Influence
• Cultural Impact of the British Invasion in the 1960s
• The Evolution of Rock Music: From Roots to Contemporary Forms
• Roles of Music Festivals in the Promotion of Rock Music
• Examining the Lyrics of Rock Music: Sociopolitical Commentary
• The Impact of Rock Music on Teenagers’ Behavioral Patterns
• Exploring the Relationship Between Rock Music and Youth Culture

Dance Music Essay Topics

• Dance Music and Its Role in Promoting Physical Health
• The Rise and Influence of Dubstep in Contemporary Dance Music
• The Business of Dance Music: From Record Labels to Streaming Platforms
• Role of Technology in the Development of Electronic Dance Music
• The Influence of Cultural Diversity on Dance Music Genres
• Dance Music in Film: Enhancing Narrative and Atmosphere
• Understanding the DJ’s Role in Shaping Dance Music Culture
• Tracing the Origins and Evolution of House Music
• The Social Impact of Club Culture on Dance Music
• Music Production Techniques in Modern Dance Genres
• Choreography and Dance Music: An Inseparable Pair
• The Impact of Dance Music on Pop Culture
• How Does Dance Music Shape Fashion Trends?
• Commercialization of Dance Music: Pros and Cons
• Exploration of Gender Dynamics in the Dance Music Scene
• Dance Music Festivals: Impact on Tourism and Local Economies
• Analyzing the Global Appeal of K-Pop Dance Music
• The Relationship Between Dance Music and Youth Culture
• Evolution of Dance Music: From Disco to Electronic

Relax Music Essay Topics

• Science Behind Relaxing Music: How Does It Affect Our Brain?
• Evolution of Relaxing Music: From Classical to New Age
• The Role of Music in Yoga and Meditation Practices
• Analyzing the Impact of Relaxing Music on Sleep Quality
• Soundscapes in Relaxation Music: From Nature Sounds to White Noise
• Relaxing Music and Its Influence on Stress and Anxiety Levels
• The Significance of Tempo and Rhythm in Relaxing Music
• The Use of Relaxing Music in Therapeutic Settings
• Understanding the Cultural Differences in Relaxation Music
• Relaxing Music in the Classroom: Does It Enhance Learning?
• Impacts of Relaxing Music on Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
• Roles of Relaxing Music in Improving Concentration and Focus
• Relaxing Music and Its Effects on Post-Workout Recovery
• Use of Relaxation Music in Maternity Wards and Its Effect on Newborns
• Harmonic Structures Commonly Found in Relaxing Music
• The Influence of Ambient Music on Mental Well-being
• Roles of Music Therapy in Reducing Anxiety and Pain in Patients
• Can Relaxing Music Enhance the Quality of Meditation?
• Binaural Beats and Isochronic Tones: Do They Help in Relaxation?
• Relaxing Music in Workplaces: Impact on Productivity and Employee Satisfaction

Indie Music Essay Topics

• An Examination of the Business Strategies Employed in the Indie Music Scene
• The Progressive Influence of Technology on Indie Music’s Growth
• Decoding the Artistic Liberty Inherent in Indie Music Creation
• Cultural Connotations and Impacts Linked to Indie Music: An Analysis
• Indie Music’s Contributions to Fashion and Contemporary Lifestyle Phenomena
• The Part Indie Music Plays in Challenging Dominant Pop Culture
• Tracing the Evolution and Influence of Indie Music Within the Music Industry
• A Comparative Study on the Unique Aesthetics Found in Indie Music
• The Rise of DIY Practices in Indie Music Culture: An Ethnographic Perspective
• The Correlation Between Indie Music and Socio-Political Discourse Advocacy
• Indie Music Festivals: An Analysis of Their Distinctive Features and Attraction
• Roles and Impacts of Internet Technology and Social Media in Advancing the Popularity of Indie Music
• How Indie Music Affects Identity Development: A Psychological View?
• Understanding the Intersection of Indie Music and Independent Cinema
• Investigating Gender Depictions within the Indie Music Scene: A Thematic Study
• The Challenges and Prospects Faced by Indie Artists in Today’s Digital Era
• A Deep Dive into the Shifting Soundscapes in Indie Music Over Time
• The Influence of Indie Music on Modern Youth Culture from a Sociological Angle
• Indie Music as a Tool for Artistic and Cultural Dissent

Training Music Essay Topics

• The Science Behind Music and Its Impact on Athletic Performance
• Rhythmic Influence: How Music Affects Training Patterns
• Understanding the Psychology of Training Music: A Detailed Analysis
• Evaluating the Role of Music in Enhancing Concentration During Training
• The Impact of Music Tempo on Training Intensity
• Role of Training Music in Stress Reduction and Relaxation
• The Use of Music in Rehabilitation Training: A Therapeutic Perspective
• Music Preferences Among Athletes: An Ethnographic Study
• How Training Music Facilitates Flow State in Athletes
• Exploring the Relationship Between Music Genres and Training Types
• Music’s Influence on Physical Endurance and Stamina
• The Art of Curating Effective Training Music Playlists
• Roles of Music in Reducing Perceived Exertion During Workouts
• Harmonizing Heart Rate and Beat: Music’s Role in Cardio Training
• Psychological Benefits of Incorporating Music into Fitness Training
• Music and Mindfulness in Training: A New Approach
• The Impact of Lyrics in Training Music on Athlete Motivation
• The Interplay of Music and Training in Dance and Choreography
• Sonic Branding: The Use of Music in Athletic Training Brands
• Historical Development of Music Usage in Training Environments

Love Music Essay Topics

• The Power of Love Ballads: Analyzing Their Emotional Impact on Listeners
• Unveiling the Romantic Themes in Pop Music: A Comparative Analysis
• Exploring the Evolution of Love Songs: From Classic to Contemporary
• Melodies of Passion: Examining the Role of Music in Expressing Love and Desire
• The Language of Love: Understanding Symbolism in Romantic Music Lyrics
• Captivating Melodies, Enduring Love: A Study on Timeless Love Songs
• Rhythm of the Heart: Analyzing the Role of Music in Strengthening Romantic Connections
• Love in Every Note: Exploring the Intertwining of Music and Romantic Relationships
• Harmonic Love Stories: Examining Musical Narratives of Love and Heartbreak
• The Influence of Love Songs on Romantic Expectations and Perceptions of Love
• The Soundtrack of Love: Investigating the Impact of Music on Relationship Satisfaction
• Love Across Genres: Comparing the Expression of Love in Different Musical Styles
• Musical Chemistry: Exploring the Role of Shared Music Preferences in Romantic Bonds
• Unforgettable Duets: The Magic of Collaborative Love Songs
• Musical Love Letters: Examining the Role of Music in Long-Distance Relationships
• Love and Lyrical Evolution: Tracing the Changes in Romantic Themes in Music History
• The Healing Power of Love Songs: Analyzing Their Therapeutic Effects on Emotional Well-Being
• The Intersection of Love and Social Commentary in Music: Examining Love as a Catalyst for Change
• Love in the Digital Age: Investigating the Influence of Streaming Platforms on Love Music Consumption

Metal Music Essay Topics

• Tracing the Evolution of Metal Music: Unraveling Its Origins and Diverse Subgenres
• Identity Formation and Subcultural Affiliation in Metal Music: Examining Its Influential Impacts
• Shattering Gender Norms in Metal Music: Defying Stereotypes and Empowering Voices
• Mental Health and Catharsis in Metal Music: Unleashing Its Profound Impact on Well-Being
• Decoding the Themes and Symbolism in Metal Music Lyrics: Unveiling Perspectives and Social Commentary
• The Political Potency of Metal Music: Galvanizing Activism and Fueling Protest Movements
• Innovations and Controversies in Metal Music Production: Embracing Technological Advancements and Provocations
• Globalization and Metal Music: Cross-Cultural Exchange and the Fusion of Sonic Landscapes
• Aesthetics and Visual Imagery in Metal Music: Embodying Power through Striking Album Art and Electrifying Stage Performances
• Spirituality, Religion, and Metal Music: Exploring Intersections and Controversial Explorations
• Metal Music as a Catalyst for Subversion: Igniting Rebellion Through Its Countercultural Essence
• Pop Culture Impact: Illuminating the Profound Influence of Metal Music on Fashion, Media, and Widespread Popularity
• Language and Expression in Metal Music: Analyzing Lyrics and Communication within Vibrant Subcultural Communities
• Historical and Cultural Contexts of Metal Music: Forging Identity, Revolting, and Carrying Cultural Significance
• Metal Music Communities: Forging Unbreakable Bonds through Online Spaces, Fan Clubs, and Transformative Rituals
• The Influence of Metal Music on Music Education: Navigating Challenges and Unleashing Transformative Possibilities in Pedagogy
• Ethnic Identity and Metal Music: Representing, Appropriating, and Enriching Cultural Heritage
• The Economic, Social, and Cultural Impacts of Metal Music Festivals in the Live Music Industry
• Metal Music in the Digital Age: Navigating Digital Platforms, Streaming, and Thriving Online Communities
• Empowerment, Catharsis, and Resilience: Unleashing the Transformative Potential of Metal Music on Health and Well-Being

Jazz Music Essay Topics

• Unveiling the Influence and Significance: Exploring Jazz as a Catalyst for Cultural Revolution
• The Art of Improvisation: Unraveling the Creative Process in Jazz Music
• Examining the Contributions of Pioneering Musicians: The Innovators Who Shaped Jazz
• Blending Genres and Pushing Musical Boundaries: The Fusion of Jazz with Other Styles
• The Intersection of Music and Social Change: Jazz’s Role in the Civil Rights Movement
• Analyzing the Elements that Define the Genre: The Aesthetics of Jazz Music
• Nurturing the Next Generation of Jazz Musicians: The Importance of Jazz Education
• Celebrating Black American Artistic Expression: Jazz and the Harlem Renaissance
• Exploring Cultural Adaptations and Influences: Jazz in a Global Context
• Unlocking the Secrets of Jazz Harmony and Structure: Composition and Arranging in Jazz Music
• Celebrating Female Jazz Musicians and Their Contributions: The Role of Women in Jazz
• Bridging Cultures through Rhythms and Sounds: Jazz and Its Fusion with Latin Music
• Pushing the Boundaries of Musical Expression: Jazz and the Avant-Garde Movement
• Tracing the Roots of the Genre: Jazz and Its Influences from African Rhythms
• Examining the Unique Style and Artistry of Jazz Singers: Vocalists in Jazz Music
• From Duke Ellington to Count Basie and Beyond: Exploring the Jazz Big Band Tradition
• Embracing Technology while Preserving Tradition: Jazz in the Digital Age
• Understanding the Essential Groove of the Genre: Jazz and the Concept of Swing
• Preserving Jazz’s Worldwide Appeal and Adaptation: Jazz as a Global Language

Classical Music Essay Topics

• The Influence of Musical Structure on Emotional Responses in Classical Compositions Explored
• Gender Representation in Classical Music: A Comparative Study
• Relationship Between Tempo and Perceived Expressiveness in Beethoven’s Symphonies Examined
• Musical Devices Depicting Nature in Classical Orchestral Works Analyzed
• Historical Context of Classical Music and Its Connection to Social Movements Explored
• Instrumentation’s Role in Interpreting Baroque Music Investigated
• Melodic Patterns in Mozart and Bach’s Piano Sonatas: A Comparative Study
• Symbolism of Key Signatures in Classical Music Compositions Explored
• Influence of Cultural Background on Classical Music Preferences Examined
• Harmony’s Role in Classical Chamber Music Analyzed
• Musical Techniques Creating Narrative Structures in Classical Operas Explored
• Rhythm and Meter in Classical Symphonies: A Comparative Analysis
• Connection Between Classical Music and Spatial Perception Explored
• Representation of Mythological Themes in Classical Music Compositions Examined
• Dynamics and Articulation’s Effect on Interpretation of Romantic Era Piano Music Explored
• Role of Improvisation in Classical Music Performances Investigated
• Connection Between Classical Music and Memory Retrieval Explored
• Influence of National Identity on Classical Music Composers of the 19th Century Examined
• Evolution of Orchestration Techniques in Classical Music Explored
• Contrapuntal Techniques in Fugues by Classical Composers Examined

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Essay Samples on Music Industry

How music has changed over time.

Music is a universal language that reflects the cultural, social, and technological shifts of each era. From ancient melodies to modern genres, the evolution of music mirrors the evolution of human expression. This essay embarks on a melodic journey through time, exploring how music has...

• Music Industry

Taylor Swift: Mastering the Art of Iconic Branding and Marketing

The Power of Taylor Swift's Brand In contrast to Sam Smith and Liam Gallagher, who adhere to conventional marketing and publicity campaigns (Music Week), Taylor Swift has ascended to the status of an iconic legend, boasting an impressive track record of five #1 singles as...

• Marketing Strategy
• Taylor Swift

Contrasting Paths of Taylor Swift and Katy Perry

Introduction Music is one of the most important art that connects people’s feelings and emotions through its melodies and lyrics. Many artists have tried their best to write and produce a perfect song for their fans to listen to and capture the meanings of it....

Leiber and Stoller: The Songwriters Behind Elvis Presley

Introduction I decided to choose the songwriting duo: Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller as my songwriter profile because I feel as though these two were the most influential in writing and composing 50’s Rock/Blues songs. I mainly listen to the Hard Rock and even Metal...

• Elvis Presley
• Rock and Roll

Jhene Aiko: Exploring the Artistry and Emotions in her Music

The artist I have chosen to write about is Jhene Aiko who is categorized in the R&B and Hip-Hop genre. Jhene Aiko is a popular singer who writes her music under the influence of cannibis, under the influence of therapeutic instruments and while having a...

• Famous Person

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The Widespread Issue of Sexism in the Music Industry

There has been a long history of sexism in popular music, which is an issue that few people pay attention to even to this day. There are many prominent women in the music industry, but a large number of them are overshadowed by their male...

Music as a Reflection of the Class System in Medieval Europe

Medieval Europe (500–1500 AD) saw many changes emerge in England and Europe as society went out of the Dark Ages. Some ancient influences of the Dark Ages stayed, such as pagan dance and music-related rituals, but this gave way to church-owned music. Travel, inspired by...

Accessing the World of Theatre: Musicals and Music Theatre

Goodwin (2019) states music theatre is a type of stage performance using music from various forms such as ballets, operas, cabarets, and contemporary music. Musical theatre uses different techniques (e.g. music, dance, songs, acting as well as spoken dialogue) to tell a story to the...

From MTV to YouTube: How Music Videos Shape the Star Image

Introduction Ever since their introduction on MTV in 1981, music videos, through their visual experience, have provided a more intimate way for artists to communicate their individual visual storytelling of music to their fans. Unlike regular music streaming, music videos grab attention - giving fans...

What Music Means To Me Today

What would life be without music? Everyone experiences music from the moment they are born through the lullabies sung by their parents, they also here it throughout their childhood from singing nursery rhymes at school and for some and hymns at church every Sunday as...

• Classical Music

The Positive Effects and Neurochemistry of Music

Most people these days find music to be a form of art or an expression of emotions through harmonic rhythms. However, music is also a form of entertainment that puts sounds together in a way that people find interesting or make them want to dance...

Popular Musicians Of The Twentieth And Twenty-first Century: Tupac Shakur

Throughout the twentieth and twenty-first century, many new types of music and artists emerged. The music produced during this time period was completely different than the music of the previous centuries. During this time period, music styles such as Rock and Roll, Country, Grunge, Hip-hop...

• Tupac Shakur

The Star Of K-pop, Bts, And Their Relation To Fans

In today's generation, music with various languages has gain traction with the international audience. One of them is Korean music, or what is often referred to as KPOP. Not knowing the language doesn't stop us from enjoying it. KPOP has become a global sensation that...

Understanding The Negative Sides Of K-pop Industry

The era of Korean pop music (shortly K-pop) began in the 1990s with the rise of Seotaiji and the Boys – a hip-hop group with their hit single Nan Arayo/I Know – who brought a new audience to music: teenagers. Idols’ job is not merely...

The Reasons Why K-pop And Korean Music Are So Popular

South Korea is well-known for beautiful places, delicious foods and modern technology. However when people talk about South Korea, they will mention about K-pop as well. K-pop is an abbreviation of Korean pop, according from an encyclopedia, K-pop “is a genre of popular music originating...

The Visibility Of K-pop As A Music Genre And Wave

“There are three things that make K-pop such a visible and unique contributor to the realm of pop music: exceptionally high-quality performance, an extremely polished aesthetic, and an “in-house” method of studio production that churns out musical hits the way assembly lines churn out cars”...

Exploring Why K-pop And Korean Wave Is So Popular

Intro Hello everyone. Today I will be discussing how the integration of social media into Kpop fandoms, particularly through video streaming platforms like Youtube, has affected fan participatory culture, by altering the interaction and behaviours of fandoms and the distribution of Korean content throughout the...

The Relationship Between K-pop's Popularity And Self-esteem

Scholars have analyzed the impact that K-pop has on its audience and listeners (Lie, 2012). The popularity of South Korean popular music (K-pop) has since spread from “Japan and Taiwan” to “the Americas and the Middle East” (p. 340). This is because of the gradual...

Copyright Concerns for Remixing Music

In 2019 remixing music seems like a perfectly normal thing and is available to everyone who is interested in doing it. All you need is basically a computer and a few songs and voila – you’re a DJ! But the law doesn’t really allow for...

• Copyright Law

Popularity and the Charm of Heavy Metal

When people hear heavy metal music, their first reaction is probably always shock. At least, for those who haven’t been familiarized with it and have only been hearing it the first time. But what most people don’t realize is that this genre of music does...

• Heavy Metal

History of Hip-Hop and Secrets Behind Its Popularity

Addressing popularity in hip-hop: What does it take for a rap song to be a successful hit and attract popular attention? At its most rudimental form, music is meant to please. Music should stimulate past memories, augment our moods and force us to get out...

Pirate Radio Phenomenon in the Age of the Internet

Originally derived from the offshore setups that bootlegged transmissions from rigs and boats throughout the seas, Pirate radio spread unlicensed broadcasts directly to listeners back on land. Famously, stations like Radio Caroline and Radio London – the latter of which gave the infamous John Peel...

The History of K-Pop Popularity in Latin America

K-pop means 'Korean pop', however this concept refers in general to the popular music industry in South Korea. It can be said that K-Pop is not a specific musical genre, but a mixture of different western musical styles such as rock, jazz, hip hop, among...

• Pop Culture

Analysis of the K-Pop Industry and Its Eye-Catching Marketing

K-Pop (Korean pop music) refers to 'Korean pop music, or popular music from Korea, including dance music, modern rhythm, and blues, pop music, hip hop music.' (Wikipedia, 2019) This industry can fit in Richard Caves' seven economic properties. Firstly, in terms of A list/B list,...

Challenges Faced by the Music Industry Business

The music industry is facing challenges through business perspective, the copyright of music, popular music, live music and the challenges artist face. For instance, online music sharing has prompted legal challenges and industry alliances, while raising significant concerns regarding the industry future. A study in...

• Music Piracy

Factors that Affect Movie and Music Industry Markets

Introduction Art is considered as a part of creativity and the major constituents of the art include films and music. The technology and economics have created unique challenges across segments of the entertainment industry over the past quarter century. The significant change in how business...

How The Beatles Rose to Their Fame

It was the fall of 1962, a monsoon of teenage screams swamped the 728-seat studio, and a line from 53rd Street Broadway down to 51st barricaded Manhattan. This was the night The Beatles would change American history forever. The Beatles February 9th performance on the...

Music Preferences and The Effect Upon Suicide

The World Health Organization estimates that over 800,000 people die by suicide each year, with the 15-29 age group particularly affected. Studies show that adolescents listen to music for approximately two to three hours per day, especially when feeling distressed (Limited, 2019). Different types of...

The Effects of Different Music Genres on Your Everyday Life

Music helped our universe so much since it was first made. It also made a lot of people's life easier. Music helped Thomas Jefferson wrote the declaration of independence.When ever he couldn't think of anything to write down, Thomas would play the violin to get...

Black Sabbath: the Fathers of the Heavy Metal Genre

Heavy Metal started in Birmingham, United Kingdom in the late 60’s, early 70’s by a band known as Black Sabbath. The members of the band were industrial workers working in factories predominantly producing metal - mostly steel along with other pioneers of the Metal genre....

History Behind Famous Beatles Songs

‘‘Electrifying’’ is a word you can use to describe the Beatles. The Beatles was one of the most popular bands of their generation if not ever. The Beatles impacted society through three significant songs, “Eleanor Rigby”, “Tomorrow Never Knows”, and “Let it be.” The Beatles...

An Account of McLean's Performance in Jazz Concert in Lincoln Center

The Lincoln Center was privileged with a free performance of Grace McLean & Them Apples on Wednesday, the 21st of January in 2015 at 7:30pm in the David Rubenstein Atrium. The band consists of Grace McLean, a singer-actress-composer-teacher, following by the bassist (Justin Goldner), percussionist...

• Jazz Concert

The Controversial Jazz: Inclusion of Diversity

Jass has always had a lot of controversy. Starting from the origin of the name. However, one this is certain, the influence of Jass on the American Culture in the 1900s was the greatest and the beginning of the era of popular music especially due...

White Musicians in Jazz and Evolution of Jazz Concerts

In this essay I will be assessing the validity of Max Roach’s statement, researching different areas of the jazz genre and providing examples of the main influences from each of them. I will look into different jazz styles from the 1930s to the 1960s referring...

The Dark Side of K-Pop Industry

The day I started writing this article was also the day I happened to visit a book fair in my hometown. I was more than surprised when upon entering, I could hear ‘Fake Love’ by Korean boy band BTS blasting on the speakers. While I...

Managing of a Music World Tour

Managing a music world tour is a complex job. It can be challenging both mentally, and physically. Not many people think about how much work is involved in planning a successful music world tour. Planning a world tour requires a great deal of planning in...

• Marketing Management

The Revival and Closing of the Broadway Music and Their Examples

Shows on Broadway open and close every few months. While this may be normal, many theatergoers don’t understand while their favorite shows close. Broadway is a billion-dollar-a-year-industry (2016-2017 Broadway End-of-Season Statistics), so it only makes sense that the main reason that shows close is money....

• Groundhog Day

Merging of All Music Genres Together Through the Years

Twenty-five years from now music genres will all be a blur. There will be no rock, hip-hop, pop, country, singer songwriter, everything will be one. With a look into the history of music and todays music the future of music will be very easy to...

• Country Music

“Me And My Monkey”: Analysis of Robbie Williams's Song

“Me and my monkey” is a song by Robbie Williams released in 2003 and is part of the album Escapology. The title of the song called “Me and my monkey” and there is only one way to interpret this song. Moreover, only one way it...

• Song Analysis

The Popularity of Vinyl Records and Retro Today

Vinyl records have been around for a long time and have come in and out of popularity since their invention. They had a decline once CDs gained popularity and the decline furthered whenever technology advanced and inventions such as portable MP3 players and iPods gained...

Disco Genre in the Discography of Sister Sledge

Music has a huge impact on society and has influenced many individuals today and even back in the seventies. Disco music was an uptempo form of music, which was a combination of soul, funk, latin and motown music. Disco had a strong beat, the music...

The Misappropriate Image of American Indian in Modern Pop Culture

Pop culture is a unique combination of authentic cultures and a mass product. In other words, it is a diversified industry in which long-standing traditions of different nations and nationalities successfully exist, which are integrated into modern music and visual trends. Unfortunately, this musical course...

• Cultural Appropriation

How New Media Influences Jazz Music

Music is a form of art. Art is originally a way of expressing human beings, which requires understanding and feeling. Most people say that they like jazz, but they typically choose a jazz style in the low-level melody, which people can generally feel comfortable and...

Forward Thinking in the Jazz Music

“Jazz is not a style or a rhythm; it’s self-expression of creativity in relation to the time we live in” Although it is unclear who actually said these exact words first, I do know that some variation of this quote has been passed through time...

New Orleans as the Centre of Jazz Music

Jazz is a music style that is one of a kind, complex, and charming, yet it winds up a standout amongst the most famous music sorts today. Individuals from everywhere throughout the world hear it out now, yet did you realize that it was first...

The Popularity and Love of Kpop Culture Among Teenagers

The world has many cultures trending nowadays, most of them help on shaping “the world”, what I mean is that many of these culture flow in our lives and bring impacts to our society, maybe also economic markets. One in that many cultures are becoming...

Understanding the Influence of K-Pop on Filipino Teens

Kpop are becoming more popular in Asia especially in the Philippines more particularly on Filipino Teenagers or what we call nowadays as millennials. The influence of Kpop on Filipino teenagers is gradually increasing. The visual, music, choreography, and artistic content of Korean music and videos...

Transformation of Hip Hop as a Culture

What is hip hop? Hip hop is a style of music but it’s also a culture, art, and a style for some people. Hip hop was created in 1970’s in the Bronx in New York City and ever since it has been rising and eventually...

• African American Culture

The Birth, Growth and Commercialization of Hip Hop

In the last couple of decades Hip-hop has transformed into one of the most popular forms of music, as people from all across the world contribute and are entertained by this genre. What was once known as an artistic channel for the African American community...

Hip Hop as a Tool to Find Your Own Voice

There have been controversial debates as to whether hip hop music is influential to society or not. Some people attack the issue stating that hip hop music does not have any significant value to communities, while some defend the matter, affirming that hip hop music...

My Attitude To BTS, Korea Boyband

BTS, Korea boyband, arguably the biggest boyband in the world today. Maybe you've heard it, maybe you saw it at Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. A group of sweet-faced young people who took k-pop to the next level. I've written a bit about how k-pop...

Music – What I Want To Do In The Future

The music industry has interested me from a very young age. I have always been willing to learn about the different genres of music and how music is actually made. From each project I’ve done, I’ve always worked hard to put in a lot of...

• Career Goals

Music Pieces In Story Telling

What have you learned about story telling? In this unit, we are exploring music pieces written though stories, and the outside musical meaning of the composer trying to express through music. Programmatic music played an important role in the type of storytelling music. I learned...

Analysis Of Beyoncé's Music Album Lemonade

Beyoncé is famous for her expressive ideals, and how she uniquely describes her point of view through her music. Not only does she bring to light the struggles of living in a race war, but she eases into describing how that adversity has made her...

• Personality

Analysis Of The Song "The Farmer Is The Man" By Pete Seeger

The song “The Farmer is the Man” criticizes the economic system of merchants and bankers. These high-end people are driving farmers into endless debt. However, at the same time the song is an anthem for farmers. It is repeatedly stating how the farmer is the...

Are The Lyrics Of Popular Music Harmful To Children's Development?

Many people rely on music every day, to either boost their mood, relax or to simply just listen to music. For many teens, music is a big part of our lives it helps us cope with difficult situations, entertainment and as a way to relieve...

• Development

Female Artists In Hip Hop Industry

“Hip hop started out from the heart…” (Hill, 1998) as a creative channel to enable shared experiences across the nation. It made culture accessible to any marginalized group as well as placing them at the forefront of music. The musical expression has largely been focused...

Forbidden Love In “Take Me To Church” Music Video

For many years music videos have become more popular with only one purpose and is the representation of a visual image that demonstrate a certain event or a special meaning. The music video “Take me to Church” directed by Brendan Canty and Conal Thomson make...

• Gender Discrimination
• Homosexuality

Musical Heritage of Southeast-Asian Countries: Music Fests and Their History

Existing since 1970, Cantopop has evolved from Cantonese music blending along with Western genres like- Jazz, Rock, Blues, Rhythm, Electronic pop, etc. Most of the music created is again highly sold within Hong Kong mostly attaining its success during the 1980s. These piece of musical...

Music In Western And Non-Western Societies

The European culture has been cut off from the rest of the world for more than three centuries due to their belief that their art was superior to all the rest. In 1889 the Paris World Exhibition was held and for the first time in...

Napster Right Or Wrong?

Napster, “a Peer 2 Peer “file sharing service that was invented by college student Shawn Fanning and Sean Parker in 1999. The program allowed millions of people to openly allow users the ability to share and download music files with anyone who was connected to...

• Application Software

A Reflection On The Album "Rodeo" By Travis Scott

Chill crowd screams, mosh pits, drug tripping experiences, autotuned yells, and even top featured artists are only a small list of the things to look forward to when thinking of Travis Scott’s debut studio album, Rodeo. Travis Scott was born on April 30, 1992 in...

The Barber Of Seville By Rossini

Gioachino Rossini was an Italian Opera composer, who has written many great operas, The Barber of Seville is considered one of his best work. I will discuss the SHMeRF’s of the eloquent piece of music by him which has mesmerized me. It has caught my...

The Biography Of A Singer & A Songwriter, Jhene Aiko

As the world around us rages on, it becomes common to dream about time just standing still for a moment. The older we become and step deeper into the “real world,” we realize how stressful life can be. A genuine moment of peace is something...

The Launch & Development Of MTV "Music Television"

In 1981 the launch of MTV “Music Television” debuted live on national television. With the anticipated launch naturally, they started out with a bang introducing the channel with the 1979 single “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles. The song was played as the...

Music in My Life: Being a Part of Musical Discourse

A discourse community is defined as “A group of people who share a set of discourses, understood as basic values and assumptions, and ways of communicating about those goals. ” An easier way of wording the definition comes from Linguist John Swales and he defines...

• Discourse Community

Tupac Shakur And Kendrick Lamar – Two Revolutionary Artists In The Rap Music Industry

Rap is a synonym of impact. This genre of music has been present in humanity since 1973. Rap songs are not only intended to be part of Billboard Hot 100; they have a deeper meaning, such as a way of expressing feelings, ideas, experiences, dreams,...

History and Development of Rap Music in France

From 1985 to 1990 Rap is a manifesto spreading messages about the everyday life of urban ghettos such as unemployment, violence, school failure, family breakdown. By formulating suffering and misery, it gives a voice to the minorities, allows them to communicate in the most minimal...

Business Analysis Of Youtube Company

Youtube “YouTube is a company started in 2005 by three IT entrepreneurs. In 2006, it is purchased by Google and has been running as a part of the company till date.” (My Portfolio, 2013a) Youtube is mainly used to share video content with other users....

The Issue Of Gender Identity In The Music Video “It Pulls Me Under” By Butterfly Boucher

Whether Americans realize it or not, pop culture has a large influence on how members of society views diversity. The songs they listen to, movies they watch, and their favorite television shows all portray different messages that can alter their perspectives. The song “It Pulls...

• Gender Identity

Speaker Knockerz – Rapper Career And Sudden Death

Speaker Knockerz got the lyrics and knack for making music which would have seen him dominate the American rap stage for a long time if not for his untimely death. The rapper fell in love with hip-hop music as a kid and started making his...

The Impact Of Marching Band On Me

For my entire life i've watched groups perform watched films about band since band appears tobe fascinating. For the individuals who don't completely comprehend what walking band is, it is a period serious game. Indeed, a game attempt jazz running with a Tuba. Fortunately I...

The Changes Of Pop Music In America

All music post 1800’s industrialization that is in according to the taste of those in the middle class. Pop is most often shorter songs pertaining to the theme of love. “Better Now” by Post Malone. He talks about his break-up with a girl and how...

• American Culture

Review Of Pink Floyd’s Album Dark Side Of The Moon

Music is a pastime that generation after generation has come to enjoy, whether it be consuming or producing. Most songs and albums come and go, fading with time, however that’s not the case for all. Take Pink Floyd’s eighth studio album, Dark Side of the...

Nathan Gray – The Modern Don Quixote Of Music

Nathan Gray is not a Don Quixote from the Mancha district with all his carnival madness. He is not taking a noble journey of nobility with a Sancho Panza and a donkey riding named Rocinante. He was not playing with schizophrenic symptoms that were breaking...

Music Video Critique: Meghan Trainor's ‘All About That Bass’

For the music video critique I chose to analyze Meghan Trainor’s ‘All About That Bass’. This song and accompanying music video have always seemed very controversial to me. Meghan Trainor boasts that she wrote this song to promote “loving your body” including lyrics such as...

The Presence Of Word Painting In The Cartoon Series Tom And Jerry

Any meaningful attempt to appreciate a piece of music must begin with the text, if it has one. Listeners, critics, analysts, and performers must all take the text as their starting point for the simple and obvious reason that that was where the composer began....

The Description Of Frank Ocean's R&B Album "Channel Orange"

Contemporary R&B’s narrative displays the perspective of “how the artist can relate to some of the problems revolving around love that most of their audiences might encounter or the love narrative makes the audience want to look for or find love.” R&B music and music...

Symbiosis Between Nature & Music On The Festival Of Visual Music Of Lanzarote

The Festival of Visual Music of Lanzarote is an event that in 2018 celebrated its fifteenth edition. It was Ildefonso Aguilar who created it in 1989 with the sole intention of mixing music with a surprising natural environment, thus creating a different visual experience. To...

Best topics on Music Industry

1. How Music Has Changed Over Time

2. Taylor Swift: Mastering the Art of Iconic Branding and Marketing

3. Contrasting Paths of Taylor Swift and Katy Perry

4. Leiber and Stoller: The Songwriters Behind Elvis Presley

5. Jhene Aiko: Exploring the Artistry and Emotions in her Music

6. The Widespread Issue of Sexism in the Music Industry

7. Music as a Reflection of the Class System in Medieval Europe

8. Accessing the World of Theatre: Musicals and Music Theatre

9. From MTV to YouTube: How Music Videos Shape the Star Image

10. What Music Means To Me Today

11. The Positive Effects and Neurochemistry of Music

12. Popular Musicians Of The Twentieth And Twenty-first Century: Tupac Shakur

13. The Star Of K-pop, Bts, And Their Relation To Fans

14. Understanding The Negative Sides Of K-pop Industry

15. The Reasons Why K-pop And Korean Music Are So Popular

• Bridge to Terabithia
• Hidden Figures
• Smoke Signals
• A Wrinkle in Time
• A Clockwork Orange
• A Beautiful Mind
• 13th Documentary

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100+ Music Essay Topics

Table of Contents

Understanding the Music Essay

A music essay, as the name implies, revolves around the vast and intriguing world of music. Whether you’re exploring the history of a specific genre, dissecting the elements of a song, understanding the sociocultural impact of a certain artist, or analyzing the intricacies of musical theory, a music essay allows you to delve into the nuances of music from an academic perspective. Through it, you can weave narratives about emotion, culture, history, and even the science behind the sounds we love.

A Brief Guide on Choosing the Perfect Music Essay Topic

Choosing the right topic for your music essay is pivotal. Start by considering your own musical preferences. Are there artists, genres, or specific songs that captivate you? Next, ponder about contemporary issues in the music industry, or historical events that changed its course. Research is key. Dive deep into articles, documentaries, or interviews. Remember, the best essays are driven by passion and curiosity, so select a topic that resonates with you and ignites your interest.

Exciting Music Essay Topics to Consider

The evolution of genres.

• The Rise and Influence of Jazz in the 20th Century
• The Transformation of Pop Music Over the Decades
• The Origins and Global Spread of Reggae Music
• Grunge: More Than Just a Musical Genre

Influential Artists and Their Impact

• Beethoven: The Man Behind the Symphonies
• Bob Dylan: A Voice of Protest and Change
• The Cultural Significance of Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’
• How Freddie Mercury Pushed Musical Boundaries

The Science of Music

• The Psychological Impact of Music on the Human Brain
• The Relationship Between Music and Mathematics
• How Acoustics Affect Musical Performance
• The Therapeutic Benefits of Music Therapy

Music in the Digital Age

• The Shift from Vinyl to Streaming: What’s Lost and Gained
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Music Trends
• The Impact of Auto-Tuning in Modern Music
• Piracy and Its Implications on the Music Industry

Global Music and Cultural Fusion

• The Influence of African Beats in Western Pop
• Bollywood Beats: A Dive into Indian Film Music
• The Emergence of K-Pop on the Global Stage
• The Fusion of Latin Rhythms in Global Chart-Toppers

Sociocultural Discussions in Music

• Music and Protest: A Historical Analysis
• Gender Roles and Stereotypes in Music Videos
• The Commercialization of Hip-Hop Culture
• The Role of Music Festivals in Shaping Youth Culture

Historical Explorations in Music

• The Influence of Baroque Music on Modern Genres
• The Harlem Renaissance and its Musical Legacy
• The Role of Music in the 1960s Civil Rights Movement
• Punk Rock: Anarchy, Rebellion, and Revolution

Genre-Specific Investigations

• The Ethereal Beauty of Classical Indian Raga
• The Pioneers of British Rock and Their Legacy
• The Appeal of Country Music: From Rural to Urban
• Electronic Dance Music: Its Roots and Revolution

Understanding Musical Elements

• The Power of Lyricism: Poetry in Songs
• Melody vs. Harmony: A Comparative Analysis
• The Role of Rhythm in Different Cultures
• The Art of Song Composition: From Idea to Reality

Contemporary Issues in Music

• Music and Mental Health: An Unbreakable Bond
• Navigating Identity and Representation in Today’s Music
• How Music Festivals are Redefining Cultural Engagement
• The Ethics of Sampling in Modern Music Production

Music Technology and Innovations

• The Evolution of Music Recording Techniques
• How AI is Transforming Music Creation
• The Resurgence of Vinyl in a Digital Age
• The Science Behind Earworms: Why Some Songs Stick

Musical Icons and Their Journeys

• David Bowie: Reinvention Through Decades
• Amy Winehouse: Talent, Tragedy, and Legacy
• The Timeless Appeal of Frank Sinatra
• Fela Kuti and the Birth of Afrobeat

World Music and Ethnomusicology

• The Rich Tapestry of Balkan Music Traditions
• Understanding the Maqams of Arabic Music
• The Cultural Layers of Flamenco: More than Just Dance
• Mongolian Throat Singing: Art of the Steppes

Music in Multimedia

• Film Scores and their Ability to Evoke Emotion
• The Role of Music in Video Games: Enhancing Player Experience
• How Advertisements Use Music to Influence Consumers
• Musicals: Merging Storytelling with Song and Dance

Music Education and Theory

• The Benefits of Learning an Instrument at a Young Age
• The Suzuki Method: Philosophy and Practice
• Western vs. Eastern Music Notation: A Comparative Study
• The Importance of Music Education in Schools

Cultural and Societal Impacts of Music

• The Role of Music in Cultural Assimilation and Diaspora
• How Music Shapes Political Movements
• The Influence of Music on Fashion Trends
• Music and Religion: A Harmonious Relationship

Music’s Therapeutic and Health Benefits

• Exploring Music’s Role in Stress Reduction
• Rhythmic Drumming: A Pathway to Healing
• Music as an Aid in Memory Retention for Alzheimer’s Patients
• How Sound Frequencies Impact Physical and Mental Well-being

Music Business and Industry Insights

• The Impact of Streaming Services on Artist Revenue
• The Role of Music Managers in Shaping an Artist’s Career
• Evolution of the Album Art: Vinyl to Digital
• The Real Cost of Organizing a World Tour

Crossover and Fusion in Music

• The Birth and Rise of Jazz-Rock Fusion
• Blending Classical and Pop: A Genre-Bending Exploration
• The Global Impact of Afro-Latin Jazz
• How Traditional Folk Influences Contemporary Pop

Analyses of Music Events and Phenomena

• Woodstock: How Three Days Defined a Generation
• The Role of Live Aid in Global Music Philanthropy
• The Cultural Impact of Eurovision Song Contest
• The Phenomenon of TV Talent Shows and their Influence on Modern Pop

Musical Innovations and Experimentation

• The Influence of Synthesizers on 80s Pop Music
• The Rise of Lo-Fi Music in a High-Tech Era
• Exploring the Soundscape of Ambient Music
• How Indie Artists are Redefining Music Production

Need Help Writing? We’ve Got You Covered!

Feeling overwhelmed? Whether you’re unsure about your topic choice or need assistance bringing your music essay to life, our professional writers at writeondeadline.com are here to help. Let us provide the expertise and flair to make your essay sing!

Useful References:

• All Music Guide – A comprehensive database on artists, albums, and genres.
• Digital Music News – A source for the latest trends in the digital music era.
• The World in Six Songs – A book by Daniel J. Levitin on how the musical brain created human nature.

9 things to know about the great Disney-Nelson Peltz proxy fight

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Walt Disney Co.’s dramatic battle with billionaire shareholder Nelson Peltz and his firm, Trian Fund Management, comes to a head this week.

It’s the most significant challenge to Bob Iger’s power during his time at the Burbank entertainment giant, and the biggest show of Disney shareholder discontent since the end of the Michael Eisner era . The closely watched dispute has created headaches for Disney’s leadership during much of Iger’s tenure after he returned as the Mouse House’s chief executive in November 2022.

You’re reading the Wide Shot

Ryan Faughnder delivers the latest news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.

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What’s happening?

On Wednesday, Disney will tally and announce the results of the shareholder vote that will determine the makeup of its board of directors. The company has strenuously encouraged shareholders to approve its full 12-person slate of nominees. Peltz’s Trian has put forth two candidates: Peltz himself and Jay Rasulo, a former Disney chief financial officer. Another activist investor, Blackwells Capital, has named three contenders.

What time is this happening?

The webcast of Disney’s shareholder meeting begins at 10 a.m. (Pacific time) Wednesday.

What’s at stake?

In literal terms, at least two board seats. Trian has encouraged Disney investors to vote for Peltz and Rasulo and to withhold their support of a pair of current Disney directors: Maria Elena Lagomasino and Michael B.G. Froman.

Iger’s position as CEO and board member is not being openly challenged. Nonetheless, as my colleague Meg James writes , the election has effectively become a referendum on Iger’s leadership and his strategy for turning around the company after a period of well-documented struggles.

Who are Disney’s shareholders?

A mix of institutional investors (including funds of the mutual, index, pension and hedge variety), plus Disney executives and, importantly, a significant number of individual (or “retail”) stockholders, who, because of Disney’s place in pop culture, have more sway than at many other corporate giants. Some of Disney’s shareholders are children who’ve been gifted stock by relatives.

According to FactSet, Disney’s shareholder breakdown is 67% institutional and 33% “unknown” (including individuals). The heavyweights include Vanguard and Morgan Stanley.

Who’s on Team Iger?

Multiple bigwigs have voiced support for Iger, including but not limited to “Star Wars” creator George Lucas; Emerson Collective founder and president Laurene Powell Jobs, who is the widow of Pixar and Apple co-founder Steve Jobs; JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon; Eisner, the former Disney CEO; shareholder advisory firm Glass Lewis; Mutual fund T. Rowe Price and asset manager BlackRock ; and the grandchildren of Walt and Roy Disney, including Abigail Disney, a longtime critic of Disney’s executive compensation practices.

What about Team Peltz?

Other major names have backed Trian, such as: Ike Perlmutter, former CEO of Marvel Entertainment; ISS , a key institutional shareholder advisory firm; Egan-Jones, a ratings agency ; CalPERS, which holds around 6.6 million Disney shares.

What are Peltz’s main arguments?

Trian, in its communications, including a more than 130-page white paper , has leveled numerous and varied criticisms at Disney’s board, which Peltz broadly views as having been too complacent amid major shifts in the entertainment industry. As such, Peltz & Co. point out, Disney’s stock has underperformed the S&P 500 during a five-year period. The group tasked with overseeing the company, Peltz and his supporters say, needs fresh eyes.

Trian’s big contentions include that Disney erred in paying $71 billion for 21st Century Fox, doubling down on the declining linear TV networks business; entered the streaming sector too late, lost too much money and needs a plan to achieve “Netflix-like” profit margins; lost its way with film, judging by the performance of recent Marvel and Pixar movies; bungled succession planning, as seen with Bob Chapek’s short tenure as Iger’s replacement CEO; and lacks a coherent strategy for the future of ESPN .

What is Disney’s case?

Disney says many of Trian’s claims are wildly misleading and that the majority of Peltz’s suggestions are things that the company is either already doing or had previously considered. The company has released blistering letters and videos to investors, including a political campaign-style ad, arguing that Peltz’s campaign is tainted by Perlmutter’s long-running feud with Iger and that both the former Marvel boss and Rasulo are disgruntled former employees.

Moreover, Iger has spent the bulk of his second term getting Disney back on track, and shareholders have rewarded his efforts . The stock is up more than 30% so far this year. Peltz has taken credit for some of the stock surge, an assertion that Disney vigorously disputes. The shares spiked after a strong February earnings report that coincided with several splashy announcements, including Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour movie coming to Disney+ and a $1.5 billion investment in “Fortnite” maker Epic Games.

How will this end?

It’s unclear. Until recently, Disney’s stock gains had made it seem as if the wind had gone out of Peltz’s sails. But that was before ISS, which carries considerable weight among big investment funds, put its stamp of approval on Peltz (though not Rasulo), citing the company’s flawed track record with succession planning. We’ll find out soon enough on Wednesday.

Stuff we wrote

Is Shohei Ohtani too big to fail? The Dodgers star’s name and image has been a powerful marketing force. Will the controversy around his ex-interpreter affect his brand potential?

AI companies are courting Hollywood. Do they come in peace? Hollywood talent agencies and producers have met with artificial intelligence companies, including ChatGPT maker OpenAI, to learn about how their technologies could be used in entertainment.

The Conga Room welcomed Latin luminaries for 25 years. Why club founders say it’s time to let it rest. Fans flocked to see Latin icons, from Celia Cruz to Bad Bunny. The club’s founders reflect on the end of its run.

The docket:

• Georgia lawmakers kill effort to cap film tax credits as production hub continues to rival California
• MediaLink founder Michael Kassan sues UTA attorney for defamation amid heated legal battle
• Disney and DeSantis-appointed Florida oversight board settle lawsuit

Number of the week

It’s about a week before CinemaCon kicks off in Las Vegas, where the movie theater operators and studios will gather to slap each other on the back and celebrate the wonders of the big screen.

There’s been at least some reason for cheer lately, despite predictions that 2024 will be a rough year at the box office thanks to the lack of big theatrical releases after six months of labor strikes overhauled studios’ calendars.

Easter weekend’s big release, “ Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire ,” exceeded expectations with estimated domestic ticket sales of $80 million, and delivered the second best opening of the year behind “Dune: Part Two.” Including international business, the kaiju smash-em-up scored $194 million, with premium formats including Imax and Dolby Cinema accounting for 48% of revenue.

The Adam Wingard-directed tentpole carries an estimated $135-million production budget, which doesn’t include marketing costs.

With the “Dune” sequel ($252 million, domestically) and DreamWorks Animation’s “Kung Fu Panda 4” ($151 million) also generating business, the first quarter of the year wasn’t quite as bad as analysts had feared it would be. Movies collected $1.6 billion in the U.S. and Canada through March, down 6% from the same period of time last year. Roth MKM analyst Eric Handler had predicted a steeper decline of 9%.

Even so, all is not well in the film exhibition industry.

AMC Theatres’ stock dropped more than 14% on Thursday after the Leawood, Kan.-based company disclosed that it might sell up to $250 million in stock to bolster its finances after a period of weak box office, some of which can be blamed on Hollywood’s twin strikes. It’s the latest move by heavily-indebted AMC to steady itself following its meme-stock rollercoaster ride.

The company’s shares are down more than 90% from the same time last year.

Following the pandemic closures, some theaters shut down for good, while others teetered. The effects are still rippling out.

Deadline has reported that popular Austin-based chain Alamo Drafthouse was up for sale , less than three years after emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. It wasn’t clear if there were any bids or what the asking price might be. Regal’s U.K.-based owner Cineworld, the world’s second-largest chain after AMC, exited its own bankruptcy last year .

Despite the optimism sparked by recent hits, the theatrical film industry remains challenged. The slate for the next three months is thin compared to last year, though “The Fall Guy,” a new “Planet of the Apes” flick and “Furiosa” hold some promise. The issue is not just a shortage of films in the marketplace but also long-term shifts in audience behavior and preferences.

The latest monster mashup and the “Dune” follow-up show that audiences will still shell out for well-made, correctly marketed event films, and even pay a premium for the best experience. The problem for theaters isn’t as much about the demand for movies as many had feared it was in the immediate wake of the pandemic. Having healthy theater companies, though, remains a separate question.

Shares of No. 3 chain Cinemark, which has benefited from a much stronger balance sheet than its closest rivals, are up more than 20% from a year ago.

Best of the web

— Evan Gershkovich’s stolen year in a Russian jail . (Wall Street Journal)

— Streaming has rediscovered the TV procedural . (Vulture)

— U.S. recorded music revenue rose 8% in 2023 as streaming growth remained steady. (Billboard)

— Will country music welcome Beyoncé? That’s the wrong question. (New York Times)

— How the Atlantic, backed by Laurene Powell Jobs, went from broke to profitable in three years. (WSJ)

Finally ...

Hey nerds, check out Mikael Wood’s oral history of Weezer’s Blue Album . Whoa-whoa-ah-whoaaaaaa.

The Wide Shot is going to Sundance!

We’re sending daily dispatches from Park City throughout the festival’s first weekend. Sign up here for all things Sundance, plus a regular diet of news, analysis and insights on the business of Hollywood, from streaming wars to production.

Ryan Faughnder is a senior editor with the Los Angeles Times’ Company Town team, which covers the business of entertainment. He also hosts the entertainment industry newsletter The Wide Shot. A San Diego native, he earned a master’s degree in journalism from USC and a bachelor’s in English from UC Santa Barbara. Before joining The Times in 2013, he wrote for the Los Angeles Business Journal and Bloomberg News.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Career Goals — My Career Plan In The Music Industry

My Career Plan in The Music Industry

• Categories: Career Goals Music Industry

About this sample

Words: 1519 |

Published: Jan 28, 2021

Words: 1519 | Pages: 3 | 8 min read

Bibliography

• BPI (2017). Gorillaz 'Humanz' goez Zilver. [image] Available at: https://www.bpi.co.uk/news-analysis/gorillaz-humanz-goez-zilver/ [Accessed 5 Dec. 2019].
• Cole, S. and Cole, S. (2019). The impact of technology and social media on the music industry – Econsultancy. [online] Econsultancy. Available at: https://econsultancy.com/the-impact-of-technology-and-social-media-on-the-music-industry/ [Accessed 8 Dec. 2019].
• Daley, D. (2004). Alternative Careers For Sound Engineers. [online] Soundonsound.com. Available at: https://www.soundonsound.com/music-business/alternative-careers-sound-engineers [Accessed 8 Dec. 2019].
• Discogs (n.d.). Plastikman. [image] Available at: https://www.discogs.com/artist/1030-Plastikman [Accessed 5 Dec. 2019].
• Hillman, J. (2018). A complete guide to branding yourself as a musical artist | Spinnup. [online] Spinnup. Available at: https://spinnup.com/gb/blog/artist-branding/ [Accessed 8 Dec. 2019].
• Pioneers Of Electronic Music - Vol. I - A Documentary Film About Richie Hawtin. (2011).Directed by H. Wick and M. Sextro. Germany: Slices.
• Prospects.ac.uk. (2019). What can I do with a music degree? | Prospects.ac.uk. [online] Available at: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-with-my-degree/music [Accessed 8 Dec. 2019].
• Richie Hawtin documentary film part. 2. (2011).Available at: https://youtu.be/JzczZuBJVqw?t=678 [Accessed 5 Dec. 2019].
• the Guardian. (2004). So you want to work in ... audio production. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/money/2007/jun/23/graduates.careers [Accessed 8 Dec. 2019].

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‘I Quit,’ Says Lizzo, Citing Online Criticism and Ridicule

The Grammy Award-winning singer said on Instagram that she was “starting to feel like the world doesn’t want me in it.”

By Emmett Lindner

Lizzo, the Grammy Award-winning singer and fashion entrepreneur, on Friday declared “I QUIT” on Instagram after citing online criticism she’s faced.

“I’m getting tired of putting up with being dragged by everyone in my life and on the internet,” she wrote. “All I want is to make music and make people happy and help the world be a little better than how I found it. But I’m starting to feel like the world doesn’t want me in it.”

The post went on to say how she has faced ridicule, and ended with her declaration about quitting.

“I’m constantly up against lies being told about me for clout & views,” she added. “Being the butt of the joke every single time because of how I look … my character being picked apart by people who don’t know me and disrespecting my name.”

Representatives for Lizzo could not immediately be reached for comment on Saturday.

Messages of support flooded the comments section of her Instagram post, including from the hip-hop pioneer Queen Latifah, the comic Eric André and the fashion illustrator and designer Hayden Williams.

“The internet isn’t real life,” the actress Sophia Bush wrote. “Protect you. We love you.”

Lizzo, born Melissa Jefferson, rose to fame with No. 1 hits like “Truth Hurts” in 2017 and “About Damn Time” in 2022, and her catalog of feel-good funk and pop with lyrics focused on empowerment.

Her voice was commanding on records and candid in public, where she remains outspoken about body positivity. In 2022, she launched Yitty, a line of shapewear “designed for all body types,” according to the brand’s website.

But her efforts to promote those ideals have often been met with mockery.

Her statement on Friday was not the first time the singer has suggested that she might leave the music industry. In 2023, she made her Twitter account private on several occasions after waves of body-shaming comments.

“Y’all don’t know how close I be to giving up on everyone and quitting,” she posted before locking her account.

The statement on Friday contrasts with a March 17 Instagram post, in which she wrote that she was “writing some of the best music and I’m so excited for y’all to hear.”

Despite the pushback she has received, Lizzo has continued to find success.

She has won four Grammy Awards and an Emmy for “ Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls ,” a reality series that follows a group of aspiring dancers. In 2023, her music was featured in the blockbuster film “Barbie,” and this year she promoted a new swimwear line under her fashion brand.

Her statement on Friday comes in the midst of several lawsuits filed last year against Lizzo by a designer and, separately, three of her former backup dancers who accused the singer of creating a hostile work environment during a 2023 tour. Lizzo has repeatedly denied the allegations.

In December 2023, she filed a motion to dismiss the designer’s lawsuit. Last month, a judge denied a motion she requested to dismiss the lawsuit filed by her dancers. The judge dismissed some of the claims but allowed the case to move to trial.

Emmett Lindner writes about breaking and trending news. He has written about international protests, climate change and social media influencers. More about Emmett Lindner

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