business plan music production company

Music Business Plan Template

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their music businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a music business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Music Business Plan?

A music business plan provides a snapshot of your music business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Music Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a music business or grow your existing business you need a music business plan. A business plan will help you attract investors and raise money, if needed, and plan out the growth of your music business in order to improve your chances of success. Your music business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Source of Funding for Music Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a music business are bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your music business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will want to see a professional music business plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a music business.

The second most common form of funding for a music business is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding or, like a bank, they will give you a loan. Venture capitalists will not fund a music business.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a music business plan.

Your music business plan should include 10 sections as follows:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your music business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of music business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a music business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of music businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the industry. Discuss the type of music business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target audience. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team, and offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of music business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types:

• Recorded Music – This type of music business sells music that has been recorded in a studio.
• Music Licensing – This type of music business licenses music for films, TV shows, video games, advertisements, online videos, etc.
• Live Music – This type of music business sells tickets to live concerts and tours. They might also operate a school that teaches people how to become successful musicians, or they might sell memorabilia such as T-shirts and posters.
• Music Publishing – This type of music business is in the rights business; they represent songwriters. If someone wants to use a song by a songwriter that is represented by the music publishing company, they need to get permission and then pay a royalty.
• Music Production – This type of music business provides a service for musicians and recording artists. They might produce and record an album and then provide marketing services such as radio promotion and public relations.
• Music Business Consulting – This type of business is in the business of providing advice to musicians on how to become successful. For example, they may offer consulting on how to promote your music and how to book gigs.
• Music Artist – This type of business operates as an individual musician or music group. For example, they might be solo artists, bands looking for a record deal, or groups of musicians hoping to become successful together.
• Music Education – This type of music business offers music lessons, either in-person or online.
• Retail Music Store – This type of music business sells instruments, sheet music, and other music-related items.

In addition to explaining the type of music business you operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include sales goals you’ve reached, new store openings, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the music business.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy particularly if your research identifies market trends. For example, if there was a trend towards more people purchasing music online, you may want to focus your marketing efforts on digital platforms.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your music business plan:

• How big is the music business (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your music business. You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your music business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments for a retail music store:

• Adult beginning guitar players
• Teenage/college-aged students who want to learn how to play the electric guitar and will commit time and money to do so
• Middle-aged adults who want to learn how to play acoustic guitars for their own enjoyment
• Vintage guitar enthusiasts who are looking for specific instruments that are considered rare or valuable.

The following are examples of customer segments for a music education business:

• Parents who want their children to have a well-rounded education and believe that music is an important part of that
• Children who want to learn to play an instrument because they enjoy music
• Adults who want to improve their skills at playing an instrument they already know how to play

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will greatly depend on the type of music business you are operating. Clearly, baby boomers would want a different atmosphere, pricing, and product options, and would respond to different marketing promotions than millennials.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. 

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers or clients.

Finish Your Music Industry Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other music businesses within the same niche.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes physical stores, online stores, and even locally owned retail shops that sell instruments.

Here are some examples of indirect competitors within the music education niche: 

• Local music store selling instruments
• Online retailer selling musical instruments
• The public school system offering a music program to students in grades K-12 or college offering a music ed program as a minor.

You need to mention such competition to show you understand that not everyone in the market is your direct competitor. Furthermore, including a SWOT analysis of your business in this section will demonstrate how you plan to compete against them.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What products/services do they offer?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to reach out to customers of your competitors and ask them what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide superior services?
• Will you provide amenities that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you make it easier or faster for customers to book your own studio?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a music business plan, your marketing strategy and plan should include the following:

Product : in the product section, you should reiterate the type of music that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to selling instruments, you may also offer music lessons, CD recordings of the lessons, and other merchandise related to your business.

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections, you are presenting the options you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your music business. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your music business located in a commercial district with a lot of foot traffic? If not, will you offer delivery or online sales?

Promotions : the final part of your marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local bloggers and websites
• Partnerships with local organizations (e.g., partner with vendors to provide recording packages at a discount over a la carte services)
• Local radio stations advertising
• Banner ads at local music venues
• Social media advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your music business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your music business such as serving customers, cleaning, ordering supplies, and so on. This section should list the specific tasks that will need to be completed each day and who will be responsible for them.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your 25th customer, or when you hope to reach $X in sales. It could also be when you expect to hire your Xth employee or launch a new location.

Management Team

To demonstrate your music company’s ability to succeed as a business, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a music business.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in the music business. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in music and/or successfully running small businesses.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, how many customers will you serve? How much does it cost to provide your service/product? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : While balance sheets include much information, to simplify them to the key items you need to know about, balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. For instance, if you spend $100,000 on building out your recording studio, that will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $100.000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your music business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a music business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment like studio gear, instruments, amps, inventory, etc.
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your studio design blueprint or location lease.

Music Business Plan Summary

Putting together a business plan for your music business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the music business, your competition, and your potential customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful music business.

Music Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my music industry business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Music Industry Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of music business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a music business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of music businesses?

How Can I Generate Multiple Income Streams In My Music Business?

Whether you are a band, artist manager, recording producer, record label, or music store, if you can learn how to take the best advantage of both live and recorded revenue streams, you may be able to beat competitors at the music game. Your music business plan should describe your strategy of utilizing these two sides of the music industry.

Live concert tickets can be sold for hundreds of dollars for popular groups, while up-and-comers may need to play for just tips at bars and small venues. However, there is a place for every type of musician on this spectrum, and almost all musicians maintain a live performance schedule even as they become successful recording artists. Live concerts offer an opportunity for the group or artist’s music to be exposed to new audiences in a visceral way, sometimes driving direct sales of CDs at the concert itself, and leading to word-of-mouth inspired sales down the road.

Live concerts can be a significant revenue stream for a successful music artist, but they must play at venues large enough to cover the fixed costs of production (marketing, ticket sales, equipment rental, and set-up, travel, wages, and venue rental) leaving a net profit. If venues are too small and cost too high, concerts may have to be considered just a promotion method for other revenue streams, like recording sales.

Recorded Music

The sales of CDs or mp3s of the group or artist’s music, on the other hand, leave much more potential for huge returns. The profitability of selling recorded music increases significantly as the number of CDs or mp3s increases, as the cost of producing and selling each additional CD (and especially mp3s) approaches zero. Recordings can also help promote concert sales to a certain extent, through the release of singles and promo CDs. This can be through giveaways and through radio promotion of those songs.

If each revenue stream is significant on its own and also reinforces the other, you can build an extremely profitable business over time.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Music Industry business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how a Growthink business plan consultant can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

How To Write a Winning Music Production Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for music production businesses that want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every music production business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Business Plan Template

What is a Music Production Business Plan?

A music production business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Music Production Business Plan?

A music production business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Music Production Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful music production business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a music production business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your music production company
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your music production business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your music production firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen music production business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a music production business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the music production industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, the clients of a music production business may include:

• Recording studios
• Independent record labels

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or music production services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Below are sample competitive advantages your music production business may have:

• Proven industry experience
• Unique production process
• Strong customer loyalty
• Extensive music library
• Personalized service

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, launch a direct mail campaign. Or, you may promote your music production business via a public relations campaign.

Operations Plan

This part of your music production business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for a music production business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include adding new production equipment, opening a second location, or hiring new personnel.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific music production industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Music Production Firm

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Music Production Firm

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup music production business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Music Production Firm

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your music production company. It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

Remember to keep your business plan updated as your company grows and changes. Review it at least once a year to make sure it is still relevant and accurate.  

Finish Your Music Production Business Plan in 1 Day!

Upmetrics AI Assistant: Simplifying Business Planning through AI-Powered Insights. Learn How

Entrepreneurs & Small Business

Accelerators & Incubators

Business Consultants & Advisors

Educators & Business Schools

Students & Scholars

AI Business Plan Generator

Financial Forecasting

AI Assistance

Ai Pitch Deck Generator

Strategic Planning

See How Upmetrics Works  →

• Sample Plans
• WHY UPMETRICS?

Customer Success Stories

Business Plan Course

Small Business Tools

Strategic Planning Templates

E-books, Guides & More

• Sample Business Plans
• Entertainment & Media

Music Business Plan

Music can unite individuals, inspire social change, and strengthen communities & it is satisfactory for many musicians too. Plus the financial and creative rewards are great. Therefore, want to start your own music studio or band? Then planning everything priorly is the priority.

Need help writing a business plan for your music studio business? You’re at the right place. Our music business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Music Business Plan?

Writing a music business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your business:

• This section may include the name of your music business, its location, when it was founded, the type of music business (E.g., record labels, music publishers, live music industry), etc.

Market opportunity:

Product and services:.

• For instance, you may include music recordings and albums as services.

Marketing & sales strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

Say goodbye to boring templates

Build your business plan faster and easier with AI

Plans starting from $7/month

2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business description:

• Record labels
• Music publishers
• Live music industry
• Music streaming services
• Describe the legal structure of your music company, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission statement:

Business history:.

• Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.

Future goal:

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

• For instance, music lovers, music directors, movies, younger audiences, etc can be the ideal market for the music business.

Market size and growth potential:

Competitive analysis:, market trends:.

• For instance, the demand for rap and pop music is increasing; explain how you plan on dealing with this potential growth opportunity.

Regulatory environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your music production business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your music services:

Mention the music services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Music stores
• Music licensing services
• Music promotion services
• Music education services

Describe each service:

In short, this section of your music plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique selling proposition (USP):

• For example, exclusive content, high-quality production, niche market focus, etc, could be some of the great USPs for a professional music company.

Pricing strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your music studio business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your music business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & training:

Operational process:, equipment & instrument:.

• Explain how these technologies help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your music business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founder/CEO:

Key managers:.

• It should include, key executives(e.g. COO, CMO.), senior management, and other department managers (e.g. operations manager, music director.) involved in the music business operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your music business services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the music industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your music business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample music business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful music plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our music business plan pdf .

Related Posts

Record Label Business Plan

400+ Business Plans Example

Music Festival Business Plan

Simple Steps to Write Business Plan

Frequently asked questions, why do you need a music business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful music business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your music company.

How to get funding for your music business?

There are several ways to get funding for your music business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your music business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your music business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your music business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any music business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

Plan your business in the shortest time possible

No Risk – Cancel at Any Time – 15 Day Money Back Guarantee

Popular Templates

Create a great Business Plan with great price.

• 400+ Business plan templates & examples
• AI Assistance & step by step guidance
• 4.8 Star rating on Trustpilot

Streamline your business planning process with Upmetrics .

We earn commissions if you shop through the links below.  Read more

Music Production Company

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Music Production Company

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on March 29, 2022 Updated on May 8, 2024

Investment range

$4,150 - $9,600

Revenue potential

$97,500 - $156,000 p.a.

Time to build

1 – 3 months

Profit potential

$78,000 - $124,800 p.a.

Industry trend

If you’re a music lover with a good ear and want to get in on a growing industry, a music production company could be for you. Global music production has grown by more than 35% in the last decade and is expected to continue to expand in the years ahead. Music producers make money from recording music, mixing and mastering, and sales royalties. With your own music production company, you’d be singing a happy tune. 

But before you get your entrepreneurial groove on, you’ll need to learn the business side of things. Fortunately, you’ll find all you need to know about starting a business in this step-by-step guide, designed to put you on the road to music production success.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a music production company has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Flexible – Start out with a home studio
• Fun! – Help make great music
• Good Money – Multiple revenue streams
• Education Required – Need to learn producing before you can start
• Expensive Equipment – Setting up your studio will be $$

Music production industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The global music production and distribution industry is worth $34 billion in 2022 after five years of 5% annual growth.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/global/market-size/global-music-production-distribution/ )) 
• Growth forecast – The global music production and distribution industry is projected to grow 3.6% in 2022. 

Trends and challenges

Trends in the music production industry include:

• Digital manipulation of audio is becoming more advanced, allowing music producers to alter and improve recordings.
• The explosion of TikTok is creating huge opportunities for music producers and artists to go viral and gain fans, boosting revenue. 

Challenges in the music production industry include:

• Advancing technologies also present a challenge for music producers, as they have to update their equipment to keep up with technology.
• The widespread availability of digital audio production software has made it easier for artists to record themselves, rather than going to a music producer. 

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states – The most popular states for music producers are New York, Connecticut, and California.(( https://www.zippia.com/music-producer-jobs/best-states/ ))
• Least popular states – The least popular states for music producers are Montana, Kansas, and Idaho.

What kind of people work in music production?

• Gender – 10.1% of music producers are female, while 81.8% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/music-producer-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average music producer has a bachelor’s degree.
• Average age – The average music producer in the US is 40.1 years old.

How much does it cost to start a music production business?

Startup costs for a music production company range from $4,000 to $9,500 for a home studio space. Costs include all the equipment, a computer and insulation pads for your walls. 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your music production business, including: 

• Digital audio workstation
• Audio interface
• DAW software
• Studio monitors and stands
• Microphones and stands

How much can you earn from a music production business?

A home music production studio can bring in $50 to $100 per hour of recording, and the same for mixing and mastering. You can also make money from royalties. Your profit margin should be about 80%.

In your first year or two, you could average 25 hours of recording per week at $75 an hour, bringing in $97,500 in annual revenue. This would mean $78,000 in profit, assuming that 80% margin. As your brand gains recognition and you get referrals, you could work 40 hours a week. With annual revenue of $156,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $124,800. You may also be bringing in revenue from royalties at this point. 

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a music production company. Your biggest challenges will be:

• The skills required to make great music 
• The startup costs of a home studio

Related Business Ideas

How to Start a Record Label

How to Start a Recording Studio

How to Start a Mobile DJ Business

Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a music production company, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research music production companies in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a hip-hop music producer or a pop music producer.

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as music production for new music artists, or for country artists.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

Your services will depend on your skills. You can do recording, sound manipulation, mixing and mastering, provide your own original beats, and even marketing and promotional services for your clients.

How much should you charge for music production?

You can charge different prices for various services, usually between $50 and $100 per hour. Your profit margin after things like software costs should be about 80%.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will probably be a younger demographic of artists, which you might find on TikTok or Instagram. It’s also a good idea to just get out and talk to people, at cafes, clubs, and bars, as many aspiring artists might be interested in your music production services. Once you start doing good work, you’re likely to get a lot of referrals because local music communities tend to be very connected.

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out a studio space. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Music Production Company Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “music producer” or “music production”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “RhythmRoom” over “HipHop Hitmakers”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Music Production Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: A brief summary of the entire business plan, highlighting key points and objectives.
• Business Overview: An overview of the music production company’s mission, vision, and its place in the industry.
• Product and Services: Description of the music production services and products offered, such as recording, mixing, and mastering.
• Market Analysis: Examination of the music industry, target market, and trends, providing insights into the demand for your services.
• Competitive Analysis: Evaluation of competitors in the music production field, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities.
• Sales and Marketing: Strategies for promoting your music production services and reaching your target audience.
• Management Team: Introduction to the key team members and their roles within the company.
• Operations Plan: Details on the day-to-day operations of the music production business, from studio management to equipment maintenance.
• Financial Plan: Projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability, including startup costs and financial forecasts.
• Appendix: Supporting documents, such as resumes, contracts, and additional information that complements the business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to music production companies. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your music production company will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital : Venture capital investors take an ownership stake in exchange for funds, so keep in mind that you’d be sacrificing some control over your business. This is generally only available for businesses with high growth potential.
• Angel investors : Reach out to your entire network in search of people interested in investing in early-stage startups in exchange for a stake. Established angel investors are always looking for good opportunities. 
• Friends and Family : Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a music production business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. If you get to a point where your company is poised for high growth, you might be able to attract angel investors or venture capital.

Step 8: Apply for Licenses and Permits

Starting a music production business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your music production business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability : The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property : Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance : Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation : Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property : Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto : Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability : Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) : This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Studio Director , Sonido , or Skedda , to manage your bookings, schedule, invoicing, and payments.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Starting a music production company is an exciting venture, and effective marketing is crucial for success. Beyond the basics of websites and networking, here are some practical strategies to elevate your music production business:

• Collaborate with Local Artists and Events: Partner with local musicians, bands, and event organizers to offer your services, showcasing your expertise in live productions and studio work, while tapping into existing fan bases.
• Social Media Challenges and Campaigns: Engage your audience on platforms like Instagram and TikTok by creating music-related challenges or campaigns that encourage user-generated content, fostering a sense of community around your brand.
• Exclusive Content and Behind-the-Scenes Access: Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your studio sessions, equipment, and collaborations, providing followers with exclusive content that builds intrigue and positions your company as an industry insider.
• Online Tutorials and Educational Content: Establish your authority in the industry by creating and sharing online tutorials, tips, and educational content about music production on platforms like YouTube. This not only attracts aspiring musicians but also showcases your expertise.
• Strategic Sponsorships and Partnerships: Sponsor local music events, festivals, or even collaborate with music schools to gain exposure and build relationships within the music community, enhancing the credibility of your production company.
• Client Testimonials and Success Stories: Highlight client success stories through case studies and testimonials on your social media channels and website, demonstrating the value and quality of your music production services.
• Email Marketing with Personalized Offers: Build an email list and regularly communicate with your audience through newsletters. Include personalized offers, discounts, or exclusive deals to incentivize repeat business and referrals.
• Podcast Hosting and Guest Appearances: Host a podcast related to music production or become a guest on existing podcasts, showcasing your knowledge and simultaneously reaching a wider audience interested in the music industry.
• Interactive Virtual Events and Webinars: Host virtual events, webinars, or Q&A sessions that allow your audience to interact with you directly, fostering a sense of connection and providing value beyond your core services.
• Consistent Branding Across Platforms: Ensure consistent branding across all your online and offline platforms to create a strong, recognizable identity, helping to establish trust and credibility in the competitive music production landscape.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your music production company meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your music production business could be: 

• Our full-service music production will make you a star
• You bring the beats; we’ll make your hip hop great
• Wanna hit the charts? We’ll take your music to the next level

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a music production business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in music for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in music production. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a music production business include:

• Sound Engineers – assist with music production
• General Manager – scheduling, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Music Production Business – Start Making Money!

Imagine helping up-and-coming artists bring their music to life, then seeing that music embraced by legions of fans — how rewarding! And this is in addition to the financial rewards you’ll reap from a large and growing industry. Starting a music production business is fairly easy, and you can set up your studio in your home for a small investment. If you just get a few clients and do excellent work, you’re bound to get referrals and start building your music empire. 

Now that you understand the business, get that studio set up and running and live out your entrepreneurial dream of being the next major music mogul. 

• Music Production Business FAQs

A music production company can make money for recording time, mixing and mastering, and royalties. You can also expand your services and offer consulting on how to get music noticed or even connected with a record label.

You can take courses on music production on sites like Udemy , generally for under $20. You can also get a music and recording certificate or degree from places like Full Sail University . If you go with the self-study route, you may have to study and practice for years to be good enough to make money.

Music production can be a profitable business, but success and profitability depend on various factors, such as the producer’s skills, industry connections, reputation, demand for their services, and the ability to adapt to changing market trends.

A ghost producer is a music producer who creates and produces tracks for other artists or clients without receiving official credit for their work. They often work behind the scenes, allowing the artist or client to present the music as their own.

The amount of money a producer makes on a song can vary widely and depends on factors such as the producer’s level of experience, reputation, the artist’s budget, and the terms of the agreement. Producers may receive a flat fee, a percentage of sales or royalties, or negotiate a custom payment arrangement.

Differentiate your music production company by developing a unique and recognizable sound or style, offering exceptional production quality, cultivating relationships with talented artists and songwriters, providing a range of services such as mixing and mastering, maintaining strong communication and professionalism, delivering projects on time, and actively engaging with the music community through networking and collaborations.

To become a successful music producer, focus on honing your production skills and musical knowledge, stay up-to-date with industry trends and technology, build a strong network of artists, songwriters, and industry professionals, develop your own unique style and sound, consistently produce high-quality work, actively seek opportunities to collaborate and showcase your talent, and continuously learn and evolve as music production techniques and technologies advance.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Music Production Company Name
• Create a Music Production Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Music Production Business - Start Making Money!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Featured resources.

10 Best Business Ideas For Musicians

Esther Strauss

Published on November 4, 2022

Music is big business and could provide you with a steady stream of big profits if you make the right connections and know what your audienceneeds.& ...

44 Entertainment Business Ideas

Natalie Fell

Published on July 13, 2022

Let the good times roll! With entertainment outlets now open and people coming together for all kinds of celebrations, the entertainment industry is ...

15 Software Business Ideas

Carolyn Young

Published on June 16, 2022

The global software industry is worth a massive $600 billion and projected to expand nearly a third by 2027. For software developers and engineers,t ...

No thanks, I don't want to stay up to date on industry trends and news.

Music Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Music Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your music business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their music businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Music business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Musicians First Studio is a startup music company located in Nashville, Tennessee. The company is founded by Michael Smith, an experienced musician who has gained valuable knowledge on how to manage a music business during the past ten years while working at My Music Production & Management, another local music company. Now that Michael has experienced managing a music company, he is ready to start his own business, Musicians First Studio. Michael is confident that his skills as a musician, combined with his understanding of business management, will enable him to run a profitable music company of his own. Michael is recruiting a team of highly qualified professionals to help manage the day-to-day complexities of running a music studio – sales and marketing, production, artist management, music instruction, financial reporting, studio equipment maintenance, and client relations.

Musicians First Studio will provide a full suite of music production, management, and instruction services for both novice and professional musicians in the Nashville area. Musicians First will be the go-to music studio in Nashville for its client-focused services and dedicated professionals who are experienced in all aspects of the music industry. The company will be the ultimate choice for the needs of aspiring and professional musicians.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Musicians First Studio will provide:

• Artist Management
• Music Recording, Production, & Post-Production
• Private Music Lessons & Group Classes
• Venue Booking & Live Event Management
• PR & Marketing for New Artists

Customer Focus

Musicians First Studio will target new and experienced musicians in Nashville who are looking for professional production, management, or marketing services. The company will also target aspiring musicians and children looking for music lessons taught by industry veterans. No matter the customer, Musicians First Studio will deliver the best communication, service, and professionalism.

Management Team

Musicians First Studio will be owned and operated by Michael Smith. Michael is a graduate of Tennessee University with a degree in music. He has over ten years of experience working as a manager for another local music studio. Michael will be the company’s chief executive officer. He will oversee the recording/production process, music equipment, and studio staff’s activities.

Michael has recruited his former administrative assistant, Jessica Garcia, to be the company’s chief operating officer and help oversee the studio’s operations. Jessica will handle the day-to-day operations, including budgeting, scheduling, client relations, and logistics.

Michael and Jessica have recruited an experienced marketing director, John Brown, to become a member of the Musicians First Studio management team. John is a graduate of the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in sales and marketing. Michael and Jessica rely on John’s expertise to execute the company’s marketing plan and advertising strategies.

Success Factors

Musicians First Studio will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Skilled team of music production technicians and veteran musicians who will work one-on-one with clients to reach their individual music goals whether they’re looking to record a new album or learn a new instrument.
• Musicians First Studio is one of the only studio’s in the area that offers a wide range of services for musicians of all skill levels and goals.
• The company offers competitive pricing and discounts for referrals.

Financial Highlights

Musicians First Studio is seeking $800,000 in debt financing to launch its music business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the studio and purchasing equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff and marketing expenses. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Studio build-out: $340,000
• Music equipment, supplies, and materials: $280,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, utilities): $160,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Musicians First Studio.

Company Overview

Who is musicians first studio.

Musicians First Studio is a newly established music company in Nashville, Tennessee. Musicians First will be the first choice for aspiring, novice, and experienced musicians in Nashville and the surrounding communities for its full-suite of professional services provided by industry veterans. The company will provide a wide range of services including recording/production, music lessons, artist management, and marketing for new musicians.

Musicians First Studio will be able to guarantee high quality production thanks to the latest and most innovative music technology operated by expert music production technicians. The company’s team of highly qualified professionals experienced in music, production, and marketing will manage the suite of services offered at the studio. In addition to customized services for musicians, customers will be able to book studio time that comes with use of equipment by the hour.

Musicians First Studio History

Musicians First Studio is owned and operated by Michael Smith, an experienced musician who has gained valuable knowledge on how to manage a music business during the past ten years while working at My Music Production & Management, another local music company. Now that Michael has experienced managing a music company, he is ready to start his own business, Musicians First Studio. Michael is confident that his skills as a musician, combined with his understanding of business management, will enable him to run a profitable music company of his own. Michael is recruiting a team of highly qualified professionals to help manage the day-to-day complexities of running a music studio – sales and marketing, production, artist management, music instruction, financial reporting, studio equipment maintenance, and vendor relations.

Since incorporation, Musicians First Studio has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Musicians First Studio, LLC to transact business in the state of Tennessee
• Has identified an ideal location for the studio that is available for lease
• Reached out to numerous contacts to include local musicians, production technicians, and venue managers to help spread the word about the new studio
• Began recruiting a staff of musicians, music instructors, production technicians, marketing experts, and office personnel to work at Musicians First Studio.

Musicians First Studio Services

Industry analysis.

The global music industry is an estimated $60B market and is expected to grow by 8% by 2026. The broad music industry can be categorized into three primary segments; recording, live music, and music publishing. In the United States, the recording segment generated approximately $8B in revenues last year, while the live music segment brought in an estimated $9.5B, and the publishing segment totaled $1.8B. A majority of revenues generated in the recording segment come from streaming (28% of total industry revenue), with digital downloads and physical media coming in much lower (6.7% and 7.5% respectively). Revenue for the live music segment is generated primarily through ticket sales (37.1%) and sponsorships (10.3%). Publishing accounts for approximately 8.9% of total industry revenue.

Music streaming is one of the most significant trends in the industry, with the number of Americans who pay for streaming subscriptions at approximately 82.1M, up from 7.9M in 2014. Another trend is the emergence of independent artists and small record labels. These groups are earning more revenue than in years past and their percentage of revenue increase year over year is growing faster than that of larger record labels. With more options open to them when it comes to where and how to get their music out to consumers, artists, managers, and record labels have more opportunities for success than ever before.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

The precise demographics for Nashville, Tennessee are:

Customer Segmentation

Musicians First will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Novice-to-experienced musicians looking for recording/production services
• Aspiring musicians of all ages looking for music lessons
• Musicians looking for artist management, booking, and representation services

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Musicians First Studio will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

My Music Production & Management

My Music Production & Management is one of the largest commercial music studios in Tennessee. The company was established in 1997 and offers professional music recording and production services for local musicians. My Music Production & Management also handles the business management activities for musicians including marketing, booking, and legal representation services. The company is well known for providing high quality production for some of the top artists in the region and has been recognized in various publications and music industry associations for its outstanding work in the local music community.

Genre Music

Founded in 2018, Genre Music is a small music company catering to local musicians in Nashville, Tennessee and surrounding areas. Genre Music is owned and operated by a veteran musician who has over 40 years of experience in the music industry. The company specializes in artist branding, marketing, and representation in addition to its top notch recording services. Genre Music has worked with a variety of up and coming artists in multiple genres and has a loyal customer base of regular musicians who use the company’s services.

Retro Recording & Productions

Retro Recording & Productions is a trusted Nashville, Tennessee-based music company that provides superior production and recording services for Nashville and the surrounding areas. The company is able to provide a wide variety of recording, production, and post-production services using its state-of-the-art music recording equipment. Retro Recording & Productions serves local musicians and national musicians. The company prides itself on being the number one choice for classic sound produced through modern technology. Retro Recording & Productions also manufactures its own collectible vinyl records in limited quantities.

Competitive Advantage

Musicians First Studio will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

• The company offers competitive pricing on studio rentals and discounts for referrals.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Musicians First Studio will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Musicians First Studio provides a full suite of services tailored to the individual musician’s needs. Professionals are equipped to provide services for all skill levels from the aspiring and novice musician, the the industry veteran.
• The company’s studio is expertly designed for the clearest sound quality. The equipment is carefully selected to ensure the best sound possible.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Musicians First Studio is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

The company’s marketing director will create accounts on social media platforms such as Linkedin, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. He will ensure Musicians First maintains an active social media presence with regular updates and fun content to get customers excited about using the studio’s services.

Professional Associations and Networking

Musicians First Studio will become a member of professional associations such as the Nashville Music Association, American Music Educators Society, and the Tennessee Music Production Association. The leadership team will focus their networking efforts on expanding the company’s artist and vendor network.

Print Advertising

Musicians First Studio will invest in professionally designed print ads to display in programs or flyers at industry networking events. The company will also send direct mailers to local residents advertising the services it provides.

Website/SEO Marketing

Musicians First Studio will utilize the in-house marketing director that designed the print ads to also design the company website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the services that Musicians First is able to provide. The website will also list information on the company’s events and featured artists.

The marketing director will also manage Musicians First’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that when someone types in a search engine “music company” or “music studio near me”, Musicians First Studio will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Musicians First Studio will be on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing the company’s services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Musicians First Studio.

Operation Functions:

• Michael Smith will be the CEO of the company. He will oversee the music production technicians, production process, and the music equipment maintenance. Michael has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Jessica Garcia – Chief Operating Officer who will manage the day-to-day operations, client relationships, scheduling, and logistics.
• Nancy Johnson – Chief Financial Officer who will provide all accounting, budgeting, tax payments, and monthly financial reporting.
• John Brown – Marketing Director who will oversee all marketing strategies for the company and manage the website, social media, and outreach.

Milestones:

Musicians First Studio will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

12/1/2022 – Finalize lease to rent the studio facility

12/15/2022 – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the Musicians First Studio management team

1/1/2023 – Begin build-out of the studio, purchase equipment, and test the acoustics

1/15/2023 – Begin networking at industry events and implement the marketing plan

2/15/2023 – Finalize contracts for musicians, instructors, production technicians, and marketing professionals

3/15/2023 – Musicians First Studio officially opens for business

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Musicians First Studio are the fees charged to customers in exchange for the company’s services and fees charged to book studio time by the hour.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff a music company. The expenses will be the payroll cost, utilities, equipment and supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Average hours booked per month: 120
• Average fees per month: $30,000
• Overhead costs per year: $640,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, music business plan faqs, what is a music business plan.

A music business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your music business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your music business plan using our Music Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Music Companies?

There are a number of different kinds of music companies , some examples include: Recorded Music, Music Licensing, Live Music, Music Publishing, Music Production, Music Business Consulting, and Retail Music Store.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Music Business Plan?

Music companies are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

Music Business Plan: A Guide for Music Industry Professionals

Augur CPA helps entrepreneurial creatives gain clarity around their business finances.

Content delivered to your inbox.

Share this article.

A music business plan is crucial for any music industry professional looking to launch or grow their business. It provides a snapshot of the current state of the business and lays out a clear growth plan for the next five years. This is essential for understanding where the business is at and setting achievable goals for the future.

Check out our article below to learn more about creating an awesome music business plan and get a template.

What is a Music Business Plan?

A music business plan is a comprehensive and detailed document that outlines the goals, strategies, and financial projections for a music-related business. Whether it's a record label, music production company, artist management firm, or any other music-related venture, a business plan provides a roadmap for success. It helps to attract investors, secure loans, and guide overall operations.

From market analysis and competitive research to marketing and distribution strategies, a music business plan covers every aspect of the business to ensure clarity, direction, and long-term viability. It is an essential tool for anyone looking to establish or grow a music-related business in the highly competitive and dynamic music industry.

Why is it important to have a music business plan?

A music business plan is crucial for an artist's success in the industry for several key reasons.

It serves as a blueprint for the artist's career, outlining their goals, strategies, and financial projections. This document helps attract investors by showcasing the artist's vision, potential for return on investment, and realistic plans for reaching their target audience.

A well-crafted business plan guides decision-making by providing a clear direction and framework for the artist's activities and investments. Furthermore, it defines the artist's brand, including its image, style, and target market, which is essential for standing out in the competitive music industry.

In summary, a music business plan is instrumental in attracting investors, guiding decision-making, and defining an artist's brand, making it essential for achieving success in the music industry. Therefore, having a solid and comprehensive business plan is crucial for any aspiring musician or band looking to establish a successful and sustainable career.

How to Fill Out Your Lean Music Business Plan

In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of filling out your lean music business plan, from identifying your target audience to mapping out your marketing and sales strategies. 

We'll be referencing sections of the US Small Business Administration's ( SBA ) lean business plan template . Despite its generality, it works as a music business plan template. 

Aspects of this guide relate to the traditional business plan, which we will discuss later in the article. 

Business identity

A business identity helps your business specify exactly what you offer. Both the single-page lean plan and the traditional plan place importance on your identity. Let's say, for example, you're a business-owning musician who provides audio for creatives in the media industry. Here's how your identity might look:

Our business identity revolves around providing high-quality music and sound effects for TV programs, film industries, commercials production companies, video game developers, corporations, and event organizers. 

Through the lean template, try to identify your business in under one paragraph. Then, using the traditional template (see below), expand on that identity. Things like your mission statement, which we visit later, are an aspect of this.

The problem you're trying to solve

All businesses are problem solvers. Record labels help musicians with distribution, while music teachers help provide the next generation of musicians with a strong foundation. 

Naturally, you might wonder how this applies to musicians. Just saying "entertainment" feels a bit weak. There are bands, like Rage Against the Machine, who make music to push a movement. But if you're not part of that crowd, what do you put?

So, think about why you got into music-making in the first place. Any professional musician should think about who their music appeals to and what they want people to feel when hearing their music. You can then say your music solves that problem in a cheesy reminder that you think about more than what shows up on your financial statements. 

If you don't want to get too corny, think about who your music will most appeal to. Then, you can say what your target audience is. Think of something like this:

Creating music for young men and women that will entertain them and inspire them to explore challenging topics.

This problem-solving might feel generic, but you'll know your fans and why you make music. So, stay focused on that.

Solution your business presents

Once you consider the problem your business solves, you need to state how you solve that problem. Again, this is much easier for music industry professionals who work in support roles. Music distributors solve the problem by having direct connections with other distributors, while music marketers help bands reach out to fans via multiple social media platforms. 

As someone who makes music, your solution is the creation of music. So, ask yourself how the creation of your music solves this problem. Here's an example based on our situation above:

Our band writes music that delves into mental health struggles based on personal experiences and how we overcame them.

You might think that doing this as a musician feels silly, but think of it as a reminder. One of the reasons famous musicians like David Bowie and Tom Morello were so successful is focusing on how their music helps people. 

Competition 

Competitive market data varies depending on the territory you plan to target. For musicians and bands, this might involve bands in the local area and those in future touring locations. For musicians, the competition can also be a list of potential collaborators.

For everyone else not making music, other record labels and music production companies are just competition. Whether you can collaborate with them or not, you'll want to differentiate yourself from all the other options out there. Being another "me too" music business will make it easier to forget you. 

Using the lean small business plan, you'll want to stick this to two or three sentences. Be very general, knowing you can also expand using the traditional business plan. Here's an example of a made-up Tennesse company: My Music Production & Management: 

The competitive landscape for music production companies in Tennessee includes My Music Production & Management, Genre Music, and Retro Recording & Productions. My Music Production & Management offers a wide range of services, including music production, artist management, and music distribution. 

Revenue streams

Revenue streams come from various sources. A business plan reminds you of those sources so you can stay focused. As a musician, your income can come from many sources. Below is an example you can use under the lean business plan:

As a musician, my income comes from paid gigs, teaching music lessons, instrument repair services, and recording sessions. To ensure financial stability and growth, I plan to diversify my income by capitalizing on these different opportunities.

Your revenue streams will differ as a record label or other kind of music business. Like musicians, your revenue streams can vary. However, as a young business, you may specialize in specific areas. You might work on creating merch or distributing digital releases. 

Marketing activities

Marketing activities focus on how you plan on reaching out to different sources. For many new music businesses, this involves outreach through social media platforms. Here's an example of what you might include in your business plans:

Our marketing activities will primarily focus on building a strong online presence through social media and regional publications. We plan to utilize platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok to engage with our audience and share regular updates about our music and upcoming events. Additionally, we will work on developing a press kit to distribute to regional publications and media outlets to garner publicity and reach a wider audience.

Bands can create electronic press kits (EPKs) that are prebuilt for members of the media. This makes it easy for journalists and members of the media to share content about you, such as a new album release. You can also consider how much you might pay for advertising. Digital marketing activities like those above are the first choice, as this activity uses advanced targeting tools based on what people search for and their demographics.

Marketing traditionally focuses on the four Ps: product, price, place, and promotions. The first two Ps delve into your product line, which you'll learn about later. Promotions indicate the type of marketing you choose, and Place usually refers to the platforms your target audience uses. 

The lean business plan gives you a simple overview of your likely expenses, which can be detailed in your longer business plan. Part of these expenses include music taxes. Read our guide on music taxes for more details.

Expenses vary depending on the type of music business you run. You could pay to rent a studio for recording sessions, purchase recording equipment, access manufacturers, or pay for other expenses. These expenses can result in tax deductions .

Here's an example of what your expenses section might look like:

To get my music business up and running, I need to budget for several key expenses. Studio time would be required for recording and producing music, averaging around $50-$100 per hour. I'd also need to allocate funds for engineering talent, which could cost between $50-$200 per hour, depending on experience. Transportation costs for getting to and from recording studios or performance venues should be factored in, estimating around $200-$500 per month.

Legal fees for business formation are also deductible. When listing your expenses and considering deductions, ask yourself what your type of company would normally deduct. Reach out to Augur CPA if you'd like a comprehensive review.

The key roles section provides a list of high-ranking authorities in the business and explains the responsibilities and functions those roles bring to the business. Here's an example of what that might look like in your business plan:

1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Responsible for overall strategic direction and leadership of the organization, making key decisions and representing the company to the public and stakeholders.

2. Human Resources Department: This department is responsible for recruiting, training, and managing employees, as well as ensuring legal compliance and promoting a positive work environment.

3. Marketing Department: Responsible for promoting the organization's products or services, conducting market research, and developing marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.

4. Finance Department: This department is responsible for managing the organization's financial resources, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.

5. Operations Department: This department is responsible for overseeing the organization's day-to-day activities, optimizing processes, and ensuring efficient production and service delivery.

As a new business, you might not need all of this detail in your roles. A new business owner wears many hats, handling all of this themselves.

As your business grows and you fill roles like those above, you'll want to create an operating agreement . Operating agreements dictate the roles, holding groups responsible for their actions. This can dictate things like voting rules, which are vital when making high-risk business decisions that require more input.

Your milestones tell readers, yourself, and business partners of the important milestones you've already taken or plan to take. Your lean business plan is a single sentence telling people what you generally plan to do. Larger business plans might look something like this:

Milestone 1: Lease Finalization

- Task: Negotiate and finalize the lease agreement for the studio space

- Deadline: by May 15th

Milestone 2: Personnel Contracts

- Task: Draft, review, and finalize contracts for hired personnel

- Deadline: by May 20th

Milestone 3: Studio Build-out and Equipment Purchase

- Task: Begin construction and build-out of the studio space, purchase necessary equipment

- Deadline: Construction to be completed by June 30th

Milestone 4: Networking and Marketing Plan Implementation

- Task: Develop and implement a networking and marketing plan to attract clients

- Deadline: Marketing plan to be in place by June 1st

Each milestone outlines specific tasks and deadlines to ensure a smooth and successful opening of a recording studio. A musician or distribution company should take a similar approach, focusing on initiatives that help them grow their business.

Filling Out Longer, Traditional Business Plans

The SBA's traditional business plan, which you can find here , is a multi-page document. It's an expanded version of the lean business plan, which you can provide upon request. When applying for business loans or bringing on business partners, this plan can help communicate your vision.

Traditional business plans might use a bit more jargon, like executive summaries and mission statements. Below, you'll learn a bit more about some of the more complex aspects of writing your detailed business plan.

Executive summary

Executive summaries summarize the main points of a business plan. The summary points include the purpose of the business, the business name, the target market, your business location, and how your business solves its target audience's problem. Here's an example you can use for inspiration:

The Executive Summary of my music business plan showcases my artist bio, mission statement, and unique selling proposition. As a musician, I bring a unique blend of classical training and modern influences, with a strong foundation in jazz, pop, and R&B. My mission is to create music that transcends genres and connects with audiences on a deeper level, aspiring to inspire and uplift through my art.

My unique selling proposition lies in my ability to blend diverse musical styles and deliver powerful, emotionally resonant performances. I have achieved recognition in local music scenes, including winning the Best New Artist award at a prominent music festival. My aspirations include reaching a global audience and collaborating with industry-leading producers to create music that leaves a lasting impact. What sets me apart from others in the industry is my unwavering dedication to authenticity and artistry, always prioritizing substance over trends.

For bands and musicians, the executive summary is a great way to showcase your passion for music. Notice the "unique selling proposition," which indicates how you plan on differentiating yourself compared to other companies.

Other companies, like music publishing companies, might focus a little less on the creative aspects of their business. An executive summary can differ slightly between companies. However, if you're new, start with the template until you get comfortable writing these plans.

Company description and mission statement

Your company description, based on the traditional plan, includes the mission statement, members, legal structure, and location of the company. It might also include the executive summary.

Here's an example of the description for a made-up company: SoundWave Entertainment:

Our company, SoundWave Entertainment, is structured as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and has been in business for ten years. We specialize in providing top-quality live music entertainment, event production, and artist management services. Our diverse range of offerings includes wedding bands, corporate event entertainment, and music festivals. Our customer demographics range from engaged couples looking for the perfect wedding band to event planners seeking unique and memorable entertainment experiences. In the past decade, we have experienced significant growth, expanding our roster of talented artists and achieving a strong presence in the events industry. Our primary business goal is to continue providing exceptional musical experiences and to further expand our reach in the entertainment industry.

The description is simple enough, but the mission statement is arguably the most important aspect of your business plan. It's a few sentences long but shares the overall mission of your company, dictating where it goes and how it makes decisions. Mission statements are emotionally driven and connected to the morals and heart of the company's stakeholders. Here's how it might look:

At SoundWave Entertainment, we are committed to delivering unforgettable musical experiences and fostering the growth of talented artists. We strive to exceed our client's expectations by curating exceptional live entertainment and providing a platform for artists to showcase their skills. Our goal is to leave a lasting impression through the power of music, creating moments that inspire and connect people.

Market conditions and research

The traditional business plan offers a bit more room for reviewing your market conditions and researching your competition. Doing your own research helps you understand the market. Sharing your research on a business plan provides proof of your knowledge of market conditions. Here's a short example of market conditions:

The current market conditions in the music industry are characterized by several industry trends, including the shift towards streaming services, the resurgence of vinyl records, and the increasing importance of live performances for artists' revenue. Consumer behavior has also changed significantly, with more music fans opting for subscription-based streaming services over traditional album or single purchases. Key competitors in the industry include major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, as well as record labels and live event promoters.

Additional sections of your business plan include a detailed description of your customers, how your company outperforms the competition, and regulations that might impact your company.

Regarding regulations in the music industry, it helps to have a general understanding of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act ( DMCA ), fair use , and current communication laws. Knowledge of these laws or working with a music attorney can help you with this aspect of your business plan.

Service line and pricing structure

Your service line includes a complete list of your services and their costs. For musicians, this might include gigs, music lessons, and anything else you do to advance your career in music. It then breaks down the pricing of your services, including some potential for how that pricing can flex.

Services can vary heavily depending on your company and the services you offer. When you first start your business, you might specialize in a few areas. One milestone could be expanding to include additional features, like a record company offering email marketing services.

The service line section also includes your product lifecycle. For example, albums tend to make more money during their first year of release, and your lifecycle dictates how long you might make albums. If you go on a tour during the album, you might stop creating new albums or merchandise sales during this time. 

Service line information can also include information on intellectual property rights and how your band and albums will be copyrighted. You can also work to trademark your company (or band) logo.

Marketing, sales, and growth strategy

While your marketing research section details information about the market and industry, your marketing, sales, and growth section dictates how you plan on reaching target customers. The lean plan mentioned above briefly addresses this area.

The three areas you'll want to consider are your growth strategy, how you want to communicate with customers, and how you plan on selling your products.

Let's say you plan on creating your own Shopify e-commerce store for your business, which is a huge investment. This means your growth strategy, product sales, and customer communications will wrap around this tool. If you want to start simpler, mention how you plan on talking with fans and setting up merch tables at local shows.

Here, you'll see some examples of how you could write this section:

Our music business aims to market, sell, and grow by implementing a combination of online and offline strategies. Our marketing efforts will include targeted social media campaigns, SEO optimization for our website, and collaborations with music influencers and bloggers. We will also explore opportunities for live performances, partnerships with local venues, and utilizing traditional advertisement methods.

To drive sales, we will offer unique packages for our music services, including special promotions for first-time customers and loyalty rewards for returning clients. Our pricing strategy will be competitive while still maintaining the quality of our services.

In terms of customer retention, we will focus on delivering exceptional customer service and providing personalized experiences for our clients. Our unique selling proposition lies in our ability to offer customized music solutions tailored to different occasions and preferences.

Moving forward, our plans for growth and expansion include branching out to new markets and offering additional services such as music production and event management. We will also invest in building brand loyalty and expanding our customer base through strategic partnerships and collaborations within the music industry.

Why Should I Care About A Business Plan?

A business plan is a crucial tool for any musician or music industry professional looking to advance their career in the music industry. It serves as a roadmap for your career, helping you set goals, make strategic decisions, and stay on track for success.

One of the most significant benefits of having a business plan in the music industry is its ability to attract investors. A well-thought-out plan demonstrates to potential investors that you are serious about your music career and have a clear direction for success. It outlines your financial projections, marketing strategies, and potential for growth, making it more likely for investors to see the value in supporting your music endeavors.

Additionally, a business plan guides decision-making by providing a framework for evaluating opportunities and making informed choices. It forces you to consider all aspects of your music career, from marketing and promotion to touring and merchandising, ensuring that you have a comprehensive strategy in place.

Furthermore, a business plan helps define your brand identity and outline your unique selling points, target audience, and marketing message. This is crucial in the music industry, where standing out and connecting with fans is essential for success.

To learn more about how taxes can apply to a financial plan for your business, contact Augur CPA today .

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. You should consult your own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor regarding matters mentioned in this post. We take no responsibility for actions taken based on the information provided.

Get your free custom quote.

It takes less than a minute to start.

Music Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Music Business Plan

If you want to start a music business or expand your current business, you need a business plan.

The following business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning music business plan. It can be used to create a music production company business plan, a business plan for a music artist, or business plans for a music teacher and/or music management.

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Below are links to each of the key sections of a successful music business plan. Once you create your plan, download it to PDF to show banks and investors.

I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

Comments are closed.

Music Business Plan Outline

Get Going → Events & Entertainment

A step-by-step guide to developing a music business plan

June 17, 2021

Why you need a music business plan

Where to start, the main components of a music business plan, the importance of multiple income streams, subscribe to greenlight by thimble..

Join a community of 50,000+ small business owners and get insights and inspo every other week

Related Articles

Making a living in the music business is the ultimate dream of every serious musician. But out of the countless individuals with a passion for music, only a select few will make a profitable business out of it. That doesn’t mean reaching your goals is impossible. If you want to earn reliable income from your music career, you need to treat it like any other business. That means making a detailed blueprint that will take you from passionate hobbyist to successful professional. This step-by-step guide to developing a music business plan will set you on the right path.

Whether your goal is to have a career as a professional musician, recording artist, producer, or music teacher, documenting the path you’ll take with a music business plan will be helpful to your cause. Your business plan outlines your goals, identifies the practical methods you’ll take to achieve them, and lists the resources you have and will need.

Not only will a concrete business plan keep you on course, it will also demonstrate your credibility in the eyes of others. Potential clients and business partners will see you as a professional and not another starving artist. If you ever need to take out a business loan or raise money for investors, a business plan is a must-have.

Crafting your music business plan isn’t something you can do in one sitting. You’ll need more than an afternoon to get this right. Take your time, bite off piece-by-piece, and chew your thoughts over thoroughly.

Our first piece of advice is as old as time:  know thyself.

You need some clarity of purpose before you can craft a useful music business plan. Ask yourself:

• Who is my audience?
• What is my ultimate goal?
• Why do I want to do this?

Having this understanding will make it easier for you to explain your vision to others and convey your enthusiasm. It will also establish the framework for your music business. This step is crucial if you’ll need people to buy in to help you reach your goals.

The content of your music business plan will vary depending upon whether you’re aiming to start a music school, be a producer, or work as an artist. But the fundamental components are the same either way. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mission Statement
• Executive Summary
• Audience Analysis
• SWOT Analysis
• Marketing Plan
• Financial Considerations

Let’s look at each of these in turn.

Mission Statement:

This can be as short as a few sentences, as long as it adequately describes who you are as an artist or a musical entrepreneur and what you’re trying to accomplish. While this might sound simple, think things through a bit before you try to draft your statement. Everything that follows here will hinge upon it.

Executive Summary:

The executive summary is a one-page synopsis of your plan. It should include an introduction as well as a description of your endeavors. Details about the funding you already have and what you’ll need in addition to a brief accounting of your plans for putting all of it into play are important too.

Most experts recommend saving the drafting of this part for last. It’s essentially a digest of all the other parts of your plan. Doing it last allows you to draw upon the information you’ve drafted for all of the other steps.

Audience Analysis: 

Here’s where you’ll demonstrate your understanding of your target audience. If you’re already performing, teaching, or producing on the side, think about what traits the people who follow you have in common.

If you’re just getting started, find someone doing what you want to do whose style and circumstances are similar to yours, and analyze their target market. Create a demographic sketch of your target audience based on gender, age, location, musical tastes and favorite venues.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats:

Think about the qualities that make you unique. List everything that comes to mind, from technical mastery and creative spark to teaching older demographics and networking. Your skills might not seem extraordinary on an individual level, but combine all your best qualities and you’ll find there isn’t anyone quite like you on the market.

Don’t forget about your weaknesses. Identity these not as qualities to promote, but as areas to work on in the future. Being aware of your shortcomings will also help guide your decision on potential business partners in the future. Let your inner critic loose, but realize that this is an exercise in personal growth, not tearing yourself down.

Had enough reflecting? Let’s take a look at the marketplace. Think about potential gaps in the industry you can exploit. Perhaps your competitors are overlooking a key value and you see a way to provide it both efficiently and effectively. These are your opportunities.

Threats could include technological shifts, cultural changes, the emergence of new artists, competition, and new trends. The music world moves fast, and today’s hot act can end up as yesterday’s news before your can say “more cowbell!” Brainstorm any roadblocks you picture yourself facing over the next few years and strategies you can use to overcome them.

Marketing plan:

Your marketing plan will detail how you’ll spread the word about yourself. Consider how much money you can reasonably invest into marketing and work out how you’ll spend it to reach as many of the right people as possible. Think about how you’ll grow your online presence—including social media, a press kit, and publicity materials such as a logo and photography.

Get a full account of your current cash flow situation. List how much capital you currently have and estimate how much it’ll take to get your operation up and running. When in doubt, overestimate. Studio time, engineering talent, transportation, legal fee, copyrights and trademarks are all important considerations when projecting your budget.

Measuring your progress:

At what intervals will you go over the financials to see how you’re advancing? What are the milestones by which you’ll mark your achievements?

You’ll also need a method for measuring your impact on the market in terms of the reputation you build. Social media outlets provide analytical tools to help you track these metrics. They can also help you pinpoint the demographics of your audience.

Establishing your key performance indicators (KPIs) can help you set the standards by which you will gauge your success. Sharing this information with others makes you accountable because they can look at your projections and see how much progress you’ve made toward achieving them.

Summarizing your music business plan

As we mentioned above, once you have all of these areas covered, you can then condense the information each section contains to create your executive summary. After all, how will you know what to put in it until you’ve examined all of these other areas first?

Success in the music industry takes a lot of work and a little luck, but you can stack the deck in your favor by building multiple income streams. That way, if one area slows down, you’ll have another one in play to keep you rolling until the next opportunity presents itself. Revisit your strengths and opportunities and start brainstorming ideas. If you get stuck, here’s a quick list to get you started:

Give music lessons. Chances are if you’ve got the chops to play paid gigs, you’ve got enough skills to pass on to some novice students. Giving music lessons can be a great way to add some extra recurring income.

Start a YouTube channel. With over 2 billion active users, YouTube might just be your biggest source of untapped attention and potential. 1 The platform offers users a chance to learn or be entertained, and as a musician you’re well-positioned to offer both. You could upload instructional videos or footage of yourself performing. You’ll get to keep a portion of any ad revenue your videos make. And if the right person sees your content, it could open the doors to even greater opportunities.

Explore the marketing world. If composition is your thing, you might be overlooking a potentially huge money-maker—marketing and advertising. Brands are in constant need of good video content to market their products, and those videos need music to truly capture attention. If you’ve got a knack for putting together atmospheric instrumentals, creating music for ads could seriously help stabilize your income.

Open your own studio. If you have the capital to invest and live in an area underserved by recording studios, you might want to consider opening your own. While you’re not using it for your own projects, you can rent it out to other local musicians and producers. If there’s enough demand, you could cover the costs of equipment and rent and even have a little profit left over.

Explore session work. Sure, your band is your baby, but if you’ve got time on your hands and musical versatility to boot, why not offer your services as a session musician? Session work is an effective way to boost your income, make new connections and get your name out there as a legit professional. If an artist is truly enamoured with your work, they could invite you to join them on tour.

Another important consideration in your music business plan is protecting your livelihood from the consequences of unintentional accidents. General liability insurance is key to helping you stay focused on your business. Carrying a policy also demonstrates to potential clients that you are a serious professional — whether you’re a musician, DJ , or another kind of entrepreneur in the entertainment industry.

• Hootsuite. 25 YouTube Statistics that May Surprise You: 2021 Edition .

Written on April 19, 2021 | Last updated: June 17, 2021

Our editorial content is intended for informational purposes only and is not written by a licensed insurance agent. Terms and conditions for rate and coverage may vary by class of business and state.

Get Greenlight in your inbox.

It's not every other newsletter. It's every other week, four minutes long, and just for small businesses.

Quick-thinking insurance for fast-moving businesses.

Backed by A-rated Insurance i

Best Insurance for the Smallest Businesses

Accredited Business

What do you do?

Business Plan Template for Music Producers

• Great for beginners
• Ready-to-use, fully customizable Subcategory
• Get started in seconds

Crafting a business plan as a music producer is like composing a hit song - it takes careful planning, a solid structure, and a clear vision. That's where ClickUp's Business Plan Template for Music Producers comes in handy!

With this template, you can:

• Outline your unique value proposition and target audience to stand out in the industry
• Set strategic goals and milestones to track your progress and stay on top of your game
• Develop a comprehensive financial plan to attract investors and secure funding
• Manage your operations, marketing strategies, and team collaborations all in one place

Don't miss a beat when it comes to your music production career. Start using ClickUp's Business Plan Template today and take your music to the next level!

Business Plan Template for Music Producers Benefits

A business plan template for music producers can provide a wide range of benefits, including:

• Streamlining the process of creating a comprehensive business plan
• Helping music producers effectively communicate their vision, mission, and unique selling points to potential investors and partners
• Ensuring a well-structured and organized plan that covers all key aspects of the music production business, such as marketing strategies, target audience analysis, and revenue streams
• Assisting with financial planning and forecasting, including budgeting, cash flow projections, and revenue projections
• Enabling music producers to set realistic goals, track progress, and make informed decisions for sustainable growth in the competitive music industry

Main Elements of Music Producers Business Plan Template

ClickUp’s Business Plan Template for Music Producers is designed to help independent music producers and production companies effectively outline their strategies, goals, and financial projections. Here are the main elements of this template:

• Custom Statuses: Easily track the progress of each section of your business plan with statuses like Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do.
• Custom Fields: Utilize custom fields such as Reference, Approved, and Section to add specific details and organize your business plan effectively.
• Custom Views: Access five different views, including Topics, Status, Timeline, Business Plan, and the Getting Started Guide, to gain a comprehensive overview of your business plan and track its progress.
• Collaboration Tools: Collaborate with team members, assign tasks, and set due dates to ensure everyone is aligned, making it easier to achieve business goals.
• Integration: Seamlessly integrate with other tools and platforms such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and Slack to streamline your workflow and enhance productivity.

How To Use Business Plan Template for Music Producers

If you're a music producer looking to create a solid business plan, follow these steps using the Business Plan Template:

1. Define your vision

Start by clearly defining your vision for your music production business. What are your goals, values, and the unique selling points of your brand? This will help you establish a strong foundation for your business plan.

Use Docs in ClickUp to brainstorm and outline your vision for your music production business.

2. Research your target audience

To create a successful business plan, you need to understand your target audience. Who are your ideal clients? What kind of music do they produce? What are their needs and pain points? Conduct thorough research to gain insights into your target market.

Utilize the Table view in ClickUp to organize and analyze your research data on your target audience.

3. Develop a marketing strategy

Your business plan should include a comprehensive marketing strategy to promote your music production services. Identify the best channels to reach your target audience, such as social media platforms, music industry events, or online forums. Determine the key messages and tactics that will attract clients to your business.

Create tasks in ClickUp to outline your marketing strategy and assign responsibilities to team members.

4. Outline your financial plan

A solid financial plan is essential for any business. Determine your startup costs, projected revenue, and expenses. Consider factors such as equipment, studio rent, marketing expenses, and any additional costs specific to the music production industry. This will help you track your financial progress and make informed decisions.

Use the Gantt chart in ClickUp to create a timeline for your financial plan and set milestones for achieving financial goals.

5. Set measurable goals and milestones

Lastly, set specific, measurable goals and milestones that align with your vision and financial plan. These goals can include the number of clients you want to acquire, revenue targets, or expanding your network within the music industry. Break down these goals into smaller milestones to track your progress effectively.

Utilize the Goals feature in ClickUp to set and track your business goals, and the Workload view to assign tasks and manage team resources.

By following these steps and utilizing ClickUp's features, you can create a comprehensive and effective business plan for your music production business.

Get Started with ClickUp’s Business Plan Template for Music Producers

Music producers and production companies can use the Business Plan Template for Music Producers in ClickUp to effectively plan and manage their operations, attract investors, and secure funding.

First, hit “Add Template” to sign up for ClickUp and add the template to your Workspace. Make sure you designate which Space or location in your Workspace you’d like this template applied.

Next, invite relevant members or guests to your Workspace to start collaborating.

Now you can take advantage of the full potential of this template to create a comprehensive business plan:

• Use the Topics View to organize your business plan into different sections such as Executive Summary, Marketing Strategy, Financial Projections, etc.
• The Status View will help you track the progress of each section of your business plan, with statuses like Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do.
• The Timeline View will give you a visual representation of the deadlines and milestones for each section of your business plan.
• The Business Plan View provides a comprehensive overview of your entire business plan, allowing you to easily navigate and review all the sections.
• The Getting Started Guide View will guide you through the process of filling out each section of the business plan template, providing helpful tips and instructions.

Additionally, you can customize your business plan template by adding the following custom fields:

• Reference: Use this field to link supporting documents, research, or external resources relevant to each section of your business plan.
• Approved: Use this field to indicate whether each section has been approved by the necessary stakeholders.
• Section: Use this field to categorize each section of your business plan, making it easier to filter and search for specific sections.
• Business Plan Template for Distribution Center Staff
• Business Plan Template for NVIDIA
• Business Plan Template for Microsoft
• Business Plan Template for Government Agencies
• Business Plan Template for Mobile App Marketers

Template details

Free forever with 100mb storage.

Free training & 24-hours support

Serious about security & privacy

Highest levels of uptime the last 12 months

• Product Roadmap
• Affiliate & Referrals
• On-Demand Demo
• Integrations
• Consultants
• Gantt Chart
• Native Time Tracking
• Automations
• Kanban Board
• vs Airtable
• vs Basecamp
• vs MS Project
• vs Smartsheet
• Software Team Hub
• PM Software Guide

How to Start a Profitable Music Production Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a music production business plan., 3. develop a music production brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for music production., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for music production services., 8. acquire music production equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for music production, if required., 10. begin marketing your music production services., 11. expand your music production business..

Starting a music production business requires a keen understanding of the current market dynamics. An in-depth market analysis can help you identify trends, understand your competition, and pinpoint your target audience. Here's how to go about it:

• Analyze the music genres that are trending and determine which you are best suited to produce. Look into sales charts, streaming services, and social media for popular music trends.
• Research potential competitors, including their services, pricing, and market share. Understand their strengths and weaknesses to find gaps in the market you can fill.
• Identify your target audience's demographics, preferences, and habits. Use surveys, focus groups, and online analytics tools to gather information on potential customers.
• Assess the scale of the market, both locally and globally, to set realistic goals for your business. Consider factors such as the number of active consumers and the volume of music production in your niche.
• Stay updated on technological advancements and industry innovations that could impact music production, from new software to emerging distribution channels.
• Review economic factors that can affect your business, such as funding opportunities, grants, and changes in consumer spending behavior in the music industry.

Are Music Production businesses profitable?

Yes, depending on the type of services offered, music production businesses can be quite profitable. Many music production businesses specialize in creating music for films, television shows, and other media, which can be quite lucrative. Other types of music production services, such as recording and mixing, can also generate a good income.

Embarking on the journey of starting a music production business requires a well-structured plan to guide your decisions and strategy. A comprehensive business plan is essential for securing funding, understanding your market, and setting clear objectives. Here is a summary of the key elements you should include in your music production business plan:

• Executive Summary: Provide a concise overview of your business, including your mission statement, services offered, and your unique selling proposition.
• Company Description: Detail the nature of your business, the demand for your services, and the markets you intend to serve.
• Market Analysis: Research and analyze your target market, including customer demographics, market size, and competition.
• Organization and Management: Outline your business structure, ownership details, and the profiles of your management team.
• Services Offered: Describe the music production services you plan to offer and how they stand out from the competition.
• Marketing Plan: Detail your strategies for branding, promoting, and selling your services.
• Operational Plan: Explain your process for delivering services, including any equipment or facilities needed.
• Financial Plan: Present financial projections, funding requirements, and revenue models to illustrate the financial viability of your business.

How does a Music Production business make money?

Music production businesses typically make money by charging for their services, such as recording, mixing, mastering, and production. They may also charge for use of their equipment or studio time, or for additional services such as music lessons, artist management, or distribution. Additionally, some music production businesses may offer royalty and publishing deals for their work.

Developing a strong brand is essential for standing out in the competitive music production industry. It's not just about your logo or name; it's about the entire experience your clients have with your business. Here are some key points to consider when developing your music production brand:

• Define Your Brand Identity: Determine the core values, mission, and unique selling points of your brand. Consider what emotions and messages you want to evoke through your brand.
• Create a Visual Identity: Design a memorable logo, choose a color scheme, and develop a consistent visual style that reflects your brand's identity. This will be used across all marketing materials.
• Establish an Online Presence: Build a professional website and maintain active social media profiles. Showcase your portfolio, client testimonials, and provide an insight into your production process.
• Develop a Brand Voice: Decide on the tone and style of communication that reflects your brand's personality. This should be consistent in all written and verbal interactions.
• Network and Collaborate: Partner with artists and other brands that align with your brand identity. This can enhance your brand's visibility and credibility.

How to come up with a name for your Music Production business?

Brainstorming is essential when coming up with a name for your music production business. Consider words that evoke the feeling you want customers to associate with your business and words that reflect the type of music you’ll be producing. Take a look at competitor’s names to get an idea of what works and what doesn’t. Finally, do an online search to make sure the name isn’t already taken and if you’re happy with it, go ahead and register it.

Once you've laid out the foundation for your music production business, it's time to make it official by completing the business registration process. This crucial step legitimizes your company and ensures compliance with local laws and regulations. Follow these guidelines to formalize your business:

• Choose a business structure (e.g., Sole Proprietorship, LLC, Corporation) that best suits your needs for liability protection and tax considerations.
• Register your business name with the appropriate state agency, ensuring it's unique and adheres to state-specific naming requirements.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, even if you don't plan to have employees immediately.
• Apply for any required business licenses or permits specific to music production or business operation within your city or county.
• Register for state and local taxes to ensure you can legally operate and are set up to collect sales tax if required.
• Consider consulting with a business attorney or accountant to ensure all legal and financial aspects of your registration are handled correctly.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore vital resources specifically designed for music production entrepreneurs to gain insights into market trends, operational best practices, and strategic growth advice:

• Sound on Sound Magazine: Offers in-depth reviews of music production equipment, software, and techniques. - https://www.soundonsound.com
• Music Business Worldwide: Provides global music industry news and analyses, focusing on trends, deal-making, and behind-the-scenes insights. - https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com
• Produce Like A Pro: An extensive online resource offering tutorials, tips, and interviews with industry professionals to help producers improve their skills. - https://www.producelikeapro.com
• The Mastering Show Podcast: A resource for advanced production and mastering discussions, hosted by mastering engineer Ian Shepherd. - http://themasteringshow.com
• Splice Insights: Offers trends and statistical analysis on the music industry, particularly useful for beatmakers and electronic music producers. - https://splice.com
• Music Tech Magazine: Covers the latest in music technology, digital music production workshops, and software reviews. - https://www.musictech.net

Launching a music production business involves obtaining licenses and permits related to copyright, business operations, and possibly a studio space. Ensuring legal compliance is crucial for protecting your work and your artists. Key considerations include:

• Business License: Register your music production business with local authorities.
• Copyright Registration: Protect your music and productions by registering copyrights as needed.
• Zoning Permits: If operating a studio, ensure your location complies with local zoning laws for commercial use.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a music production business?

Depending on the type of music production business you are running, you may need various licenses and permits such as an occupational license, a business license, a sound production license, a mechanical rights license, and/or a performance rights (copyright) license. Additionally, depending on the location you plan to conduct your business activities in, you may also need to obtain any required county or city permits.

Having a dedicated business bank account is crucial for managing your music production business's finances, and securing funding can help cover startup costs and keep operations running smoothly. Here's how to approach these important steps:

• Research banks and credit unions: Compare fees, services, and any benefits specific to small businesses or those in the creative industry.
• Choose the right type of account: Decide between checking, savings, or a combination of accounts to suit your business's cash flow needs.
• Prepare the necessary documents: Collect your business registration papers, EIN, and personal identification to open your account.
• Explore funding options: Look into small business loans, grants, investor opportunities, or crowdfunding specific to the music industry.
• Consider credit options: A business credit card or line of credit can be useful for managing expenses and building credit.
• Create a budget: Estimate startup costs, ongoing expenses, and potential income to understand how much funding you'll need.
• Develop a pitch: If seeking investors, prepare a compelling pitch that outlines your business plan, market potential, and financial projections.

Setting the right price for your music production services is crucial to attracting clients while ensuring you're fairly compensated for your time and skills. It's a delicate balance that can determine your business's success. Here are some guidelines to help you establish competitive and sustainable pricing:

• Analyze the Market: Research what other music producers are charging and understand the going rates for various services like mixing, mastering, and beat making.
• Know Your Costs: Tally up your overhead costs, including studio time, equipment, software, and any additional staff, to ensure your rates cover these expenses.
• Value Your Experience: If you have a strong portfolio and years of experience, price your services higher than someone just starting out.
• Offer Packages: Create tiered pricing with bundled services to provide options for different budgets and needs.
• Be Flexible: Be willing to negotiate and adjust prices for larger projects or repeat clients to build long-term relationships.
• Clear Communication: Ensure your pricing is transparent to avoid misunderstandings. Clearly outline what is included in each service package.
• Review Regularly: Reassess your pricing periodically to keep up with changes in the market, your growing expertise, and inflation.

What does it cost to start a Music Production business?

Initiating a music production business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $24000 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your music production business.

Starting a music production business requires not just talent and creativity, but also the right equipment and supplies. Your gear will be the backbone of your operations, capturing, manipulating, and polishing sounds to produce high-quality audio. Here's what you'll need to acquire:

• Computer: A reliable and fast computer is essential for running music production software.
• DAW (Digital Audio Workstation): Choose a DAW that suits your workflow, whether it's Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Logic Pro, or another.
• Audio Interface: Invest in a high-quality audio interface to ensure clear sound input and output.
• Studio Monitors: Accurate monitoring is crucial, so select studio monitors that provide a true representation of sound.
• Headphones: A good pair of closed-back headphones will be essential for detailed listening and mixing.
• Microphones: Depending on your needs, you might require various types of microphones, such as condenser, dynamic, and ribbon mics.
• MIDI Controller: A MIDI keyboard or pad controller will be useful for programming instruments and beats.
• Cables and Stands: Ensure you have all the necessary cables for your equipment, as well as mic stands and monitor stands.
• Acoustic Treatment: Proper acoustic panels and bass traps will help control room reflections and provide accurate sound.
• External Storage: High-capacity hard drives or SSDs are important for backing up projects and storing samples and recordings.

List of Software, Tools and Supplies Needed to Start a Music Production Business:

• Music Production Software
• Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
• Audio/MIDI Interface
• MIDI Controllers
• Synthesizers/Samplers
• Microphones
• Studio Monitors
• Mixing Console/Mixer
• Recording Media
• Computer/Laptop
• External Hard Drives

Ensuring that your music production business is protected against potential risks is crucial for its longevity and success. Business insurance can safeguard against unforeseen events that could otherwise be financially devastating. Here are some key steps to obtain the right business insurance:

• Assess Your Risks: Identify the types of risks your music production business could face, such as property damage, theft of equipment, or legal liabilities.
• Research Insurance Providers: Look for insurance companies with experience in the entertainment or music industry. Compare their coverage options, premiums, and customer reviews.
• Choose the Right Coverage: Common insurance policies for music production businesses include general liability, professional liability, and property insurance. You may also need workers' compensation if you have employees.
• Consult with an Expert: Speak with an insurance broker or legal advisor who specializes in the music industry to ensure you're getting appropriate coverage for your specific needs.
• Review and Update Regularly: As your business grows and changes, your insurance needs may evolve. Make sure to review and update your policies accordingly to maintain adequate protection.

Now that you've honed your skills and set up your music production business, it's time to attract clients. Marketing your services effectively is crucial to building your brand and establishing a client base. Here are some strategies to get the word out and start generating business:

• Develop a Strong Online Presence: Create a professional website showcasing your portfolio, services, and contact information. Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential clients and share your work.
• Networking: Attend industry events, join music production forums, and connect with artists and other professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool.
• Create Content: Produce tutorial videos, write blog posts, or start a podcast to share your expertise and attract attention from potential clients interested in learning more about music production.
• Offer Promotions: Consider offering introductory rates or package deals to new clients to encourage them to try your services.
• Collaborate: Work with established artists or producers and ask for referrals. Collaborations can also lead to shared audiences and increased visibility.
• Paid Advertising: Invest in targeted online advertisements on platforms like Google, Facebook, or Instagram to reach potential clients actively searching for music production services.

Once you've established your music production business and have a solid workflow and client base, it's time to think about expansion. Growing your business can take many forms, from increasing your client list to offering new services. Here are some strategies to consider for expanding your music production business:

• Network and Collaborate: Build relationships with more artists, producers, and industry professionals to expand your reach and opportunities.
• Enhance Online Presence: Invest in a professional website, SEO, and social media marketing to attract a wider audience.
• Expand Services: Offer additional services such as songwriting, mixing, mastering, or sound design to become a one-stop-shop for clients.
• Invest in Education: Keep up with industry trends and new technology by attending workshops, courses, or obtaining certifications.
• Upgrade Equipment: Invest in higher quality or additional equipment to improve the production value and attract more clients.
• Hire Talent: Bring on additional producers, engineers, or administrative staff to handle increased workload and bring in fresh ideas.
• Seek Partnerships: Form partnerships with labels, studios, or media companies to secure a steady stream of projects.
• Diversify Income: Look into passive income streams like selling sample packs, beats, or offering online courses.

How to Start a Production Company: A Complete 12-Step Guide

S tarting a production company can be incredibly daunting. There are so many business aspects that appear mundane and confusing to the typical creative starting a production company. But the truth is that laying down a proper foundation is essential for any new production company to grow and prosper. In this article, we outline twelve steps on how to start a production company in the modern age. Let’s dive in. 

How to start a production company 

1. research the market.

Getting started right away and shooting anything and everything possible might sound like a great idea when starting a production company. But before you shoot a single shot, it is important to do your market research. This is important for companies producing either independent films or commercial advertisements. 

When producing an independent film, research doesn't mean you must write a film according to what is popular. But rather understand and determine how the film you want to make can be positioned in the world of indie films, streaming, and top film festivals .

On the topic of the latter, researching film festivals can be the deciding factor that gets your film into film festivals. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right film festival. 

Starting a Production Company Through Film Festivals

If you are aiming to produce commercial work, research is just as, if not more important. Research the market in your specific area and determine how to position your company to fulfill the market needs of your area. 

Research also may involve reaching out and learning from others. Here are the founders of a small production company Dose of Society. They reached out to Gary Vaynerchuk, a well-known and successful entrepreneur, to ask him how to scale a small media company. 

How to start a production company  •  Meeting With Dose of Society

While the advice Gary Vaynerchuk gives them is valuable in and of itself, it is important for you to conduct your own research in your area. It is also important to research competing companies and take note of the services they are offering. Understanding what you’re up against will help you determine how to position and market your company.

Starting a film production company

2. determine your niche.

When starting a production company, you may find that a specific niche excites you the most. For indie film companies, this may be a certain genre such as horror or science-fiction. In commercial production, companies this may be a focus on weddings, restaurants, start-ups, or even gyms. 

Starting a film production company with niches

As the video states, it is important to follow your instincts when determining your niche rather than what others tell you is a great niche to pursue. When first learning how to start a production company, take a look at existing companies and understand what markets are saturated in your area. 

How to start a film production company with no money

3. name your company.

Naming a company can be incredibly fun, but often difficult. When naming your production company, definitely include your personality and have fun with it, but keep in mind a few guidelines. 

It is important to come up with a name that is memorable and easily searchable. It’s easy for company names to get lost in the minutiae of the internet. Utilizing a city name in your company name is a great way to help potential clients find your company more easily. Here is a great Ted talk that discusses how to come up with a great brand name.

How to name your production company  •  Brand Names

It is also important to make sure that your name is original and legally avoids copyright problems. Enter your possible company names into the National Business Register to check if your name is taken. 

How do you start a production company?

4. create a business plan.

One of the most important steps when creating a production company is creating a production company business plan . Without a business plan, starting a company may be easy, but growing it in a sustainable way will be incredibly difficult. 

Putting your business plan on paper will help you and your team gain a clear direction on the company with actionable steps. Here is some first hand advice on how to think about growing a production company.

How to start a production company and grow it

Perhaps most importantly, a business plan can be presented to potential investors, advisors, team members or clients to prove to them that there is a plan for the future of the company. When people are going to invest their money or time into a company, they will want to know that there is a plan behind the idea. 

5. Assemble a team and equipment

While it is always an option to start a company alone as a sole proprietor (we’ll get to that in the next section), working with friends is not only more fun, but it can increase your production value immensely. 

Being a one man or woman show can spread you thin and decrease the level of production on your projects. There will inevitably be projects that come up where you will need to find and hire a great film crew . A proper set will entail a few key positions. What positions are absolutely necessary? Here’s a video to give you a better idea. 

How Many Crew Members Do You Need?  •  Starting a film production company

This team will either be composed of freelancers, employees, or business partners. To determine which you will employ, refer to your business plan and finances to see what best suits your company.

Once you have your crew, using StudioBinder’s film crew list management software will help you stay organized and efficient when managing your crew.

In addition to a team, you will need equipment. When starting a production company, it is common to be on a very tight budget. Production lighting kits , mirrorless cameras , and camera lenses can get pricey. Here is a video that breaks down some essential equipment needs that won't completely break the bank.

How to Start a Production Company With Under $10,000: What Should You Buy?

Keeping your team and production organized is the difference between amauteuer productions and professional productions. Production softwares like StudioBinder’s production management software will help take your company to the next level. 

Related Posts

• A Complete Buying Guide to Camera Lenses →
• The Best Mirrorless Cameras for Filmmaking →
• Plan your productions with scheduling software →

Register a film production company

6. determine your type of company.

Types of businesses to register a film production company

To recap, here are your options as stated here by the U.S. Small Business Association where you can find more information:

1. Sole Proprietorship:

A sole proprietorship is easy to form and gives you complete control of your business. 

Sole proprietorships do not produce a separate business entity. This means your business assets and liabilities are not separate from your personal assets and liabilities. You can be held personally liable for the debts and obligations of the business. Still wondering what a sole proprietorship is? Check out the video below for more information.

What Is A Sole Proprietorship?  •  QuickBooks US

Sole proprietorships can be a good choice for low-risk businesses and owners who want to test their business idea before forming a more formal business.

2. Partnership:

Partnerships are the simplest structure for two or more people to own a business together. There are two common kinds of partnerships: limited partnerships (LP) and limited liability partnerships (LLP).

Limited partnerships have only one general partner with unlimited liability, and all other partners have limited liability.

Limited liability partnerships are similar to limited partnerships, but give limited liability to every owner.

Partnerships can be a good choice for businesses with multiple owners, professional groups (like attorneys), and groups who want to test their business idea before forming a more formal business.

3. LLC (Limited Liability Company)

An LLC lets you take advantage of the benefits of both the corporation and partnership business structures.

LLCs protect you from personal liability in most instances, your personal assets — like your vehicle, house, and savings accounts — won't be at risk in case your LLC faces bankruptcy or lawsuits. LLCs can also have a limited life in many states. 

These can be a good choice for medium- or higher-risk businesses, owners with significant personal assets they want to be protected, and owners who want to pay a lower tax rate than they would with a corporation.

LLC vs S-corp vs C-corp

4. c corp (corporation).

A corporation, sometimes called a C corp, is a legal entity that's separate from its owners. Corporations can make a profit, be taxed, and can be held legally liable.

Corporations offer the strongest protection to its owners from personal liability, but the cost to form a corporation is higher than other structures. Corporations also require more extensive record-keeping, operational processes, and reporting.

These can be a good choice for medium- or higher-risk businesses, businesses that need to raise money, and businesses that plan to "go public" or eventually be sold.

5. S Corp (Corporation)

An S corporation, sometimes called an S corp, is a special type of corporation that's designed to avoid the double taxation drawback of regular C corps. S corps allow profits, and some losses, to be passed through directly to owners' personal income without ever being subject to corporate tax rates.

S corps also have an independent life, just like C corps. If a shareholder leaves the company or sells his or her shares, the S corp can continue doing business relatively undisturbed.

These can be a good choice for a business that would otherwise be a C corp, but meet the criteria to file as an S corp.

How do I start a production company?

7. consult a lawyer or legal advisor.

Creating a production company legally can be complex. Consulting a legal advisor or lawyer will help ensure that you are taking the necessary steps in starting your company. Many people jump into starting a production company without laying the foundations. 

Here is a video with first hand experience explaining why this is such an important step for anyone starting a production company. 

5 Tips from Starting my own production company from scratch

There are many small business lawyers and entertainment lawyers who specialize in production services that can give great legal advice throughout the process. This step will help you avoid any costly problems in the future.

How to start your production company’s bookkeeping 

8. set up your bookkeeping.

Entertainment payroll, production insurance , and other expenses can get complicated and unorganized very fast. Consulting a CPA and setting up your bookkeeping right away will also help you avoid costly problems in the future as well as any legal ramifications for overlooked processes. This step will pay off when it's time to file your taxes, apply for a loan, or pay your employees.

How to start a production company website

9. establish an online presence.

Whether your production company produces independent films or commercial work, having an online presence is incredibly important. A website will enable you to showcase your work and allow clients or audiences to find you. 

In this day and age, it is a great idea to develop a social media presence as well. Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube are all places where trailers, commercials, and other video work can live and be discovered by clients or potential Hollywood players. 

How to create a production company portfolio

10. produce proof of concept projects.

Once you create a website and online presence, you will need to produce work that lives there. This gallery of work will obviously grow as you take on more client work, but initially you may have to shoot some proof of concept ideas that will help clients get a better idea of what your production company is capable of creating. 

StudioBinder's web series,  Making It , followed the entire proof of concept process from the script to the first day of shooting. Here's the first episode on how it all began.

Making It Ep. 1  • Watch Entire Series

When shooting independent films, sometimes creating a short film as a proof of concept for a feature film is a great way to get eyes on your project and potentially funding. 

11. Build a client network

Once the foundations of your company have been established, the next most important step is getting new clients. This is where you will actually see a return on your investment. Here are some fundamental tips for finding new clients for your production company. 

How to start your production company client network

The keys to building a client network is networking and delivering consistent, high quality work. Your initial clients will be your best allies in getting new clients, so maintaining a good relationship is essential.  

How to start a production company plan

12. plan for the future.

Planning for the future of your production company can be difficult in an industry that shifts and changes so often. In this day and age, technology progresses and changes at the blink of an eye. Keeping your focus on how the market is changing, what’s trending in the industry, and what new tech is emerging will help you steer your company like a ship in the right direction. 

Starting a production company is no easy feat by any means, but if you are passionate, persistent, and willing to put in the work it is absolutely achievable. Hopefully these tips bring you one step closer to executing your plan of starting your own production company. Remember there are endless resources online that will help you get started. 

• The Best Video Lighting Kits for Filmmakers →
• How to Master Lighting with 3-Point Lighting →
• Redefined Production Calendar for Easier Shoots →

A guide to creating your business plan

A key part of starting a production company is creating a business plan. And creating a business plan for your new production company can be daunting. Luckily, we’ve covered the fundamentals of how to create a production company business plan in our next article and even included a free template to lay out your business plan. 

Up Next: Creating a business plan →

• Pricing & Plans
• Product Updates
• Featured On
• StudioBinder Partners
• The Ultimate Guide to Call Sheets (with FREE Call Sheet Template)
• How to Break Down a Script (with FREE Script Breakdown Sheet)
• The Only Shot List Template You Need — with Free Download
• Managing Your Film Budget Cashflow & PO Log (Free Template)
• A Better Film Crew List Template Booking Sheet
• Best Storyboard Softwares (with free Storyboard Templates)
• Movie Magic Scheduling
• Gorilla Software
• Storyboard That

A visual medium requires visual methods. Master the art of visual storytelling with our FREE video series on directing and filmmaking techniques.

We’re in a golden age of TV writing and development. More and more people are flocking to the small screen to find daily entertainment. So how can you break put from the pack and get your idea onto the small screen? We’re here to help.

• Making It: From Pre-Production to Screen
• What is a Freeze Frame — The Best Examples & Why They Work
• TV Script Format 101 — Examples of How to Format a TV Script
• Best Free Musical Movie Scripts Online (with PDF Downloads)
• What is Tragedy — Definition, Examples & Types Explained
• What are the 12 Principles of Animation — Ultimate Guide
• 59 Facebook
• 4 Pinterest

• New/Renewal Subscription
• Current Issue
• Back Issues
• Store Finder
• Email Signup
• Friday Freebie
• Digital Edition
• Opportunities
• Cover Stories
• Feature Articles
• Magazine Archives
• Business Affairs
• Signing Stories
• Music Industry Tips
• Film/TV News
• Heart & Soul
• Studio News
• Hit the Decks
• Art of Sound
• More Industry News
• Submit Live Review
• Submit New Music
• New Music Critiques
• Photo Blog Show Reviews
• Vinyl Minded
• Can't Do Without
• Book Reviews
• Video of the Week
• Industry Contacts

Tip Jar: How To Write A Music Business Plan

The biggest mistake artists make when it comes to procuring financing for their music ventures is the lack of a business plan. Artists and musicians must understand that music is a business and should run like one. Once you’ve decided that music is your business, you must set aside time to write out a solid business plan if you want to grow as a business, attract investors, increase your fan base, market and sell music or launch a crowdfunding campaign.  Here are the essential elements you’ll need to begin your process of establishing a business plan:

1. Write it down (the rough draft)

Whether it’s temporarily written down on a napkin or typed in Microsoft Office, you need to get your plan from out of your head. Start by considering where you are currently in your music career and where you want to be. Give yourself a realistic time frame and work backwards, citing the steps and resources required to reach each milestone in your plan.

2. Take yourself seriously

This is not a joking matter. If you don’t take yourself seriously, no one else will, so include pertinent information regarding your music business. Before you complete your plan, make sure you’ve captured the essence of your music business with the same passion you have for your music.

3. Before you dive in headfirst

Creating a music business plan can be an overwhelming task if you allow it to be. Remember, the only way to eat an elephant is one spoonful at a time, so take a moment to breathe and gather your thoughts.

4. Taking personal and professional inventory

If you have been in the music business for at least a year, you should have a basic idea how a music business operates. In fact, you are most likely implementing core business principles and practices at your current level. Now take it a step further by conducting a SWOT analysis.

A SWOT analysis is a simple assessment of your personal or professional Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats as they apply to your music business. Begin by taking a piece of paper and folding it into four equal squares. At the top of each square going clockwise, write each component of the SWOT analysis in its own square. Then create a bulleted list of all the information regarding your business in the corresponding squares. Once completed, you will have the framework to create a formal business plan.

5. Understand what should be included in your plan

At a minimum, your plan should include the following:

A ) Executive Summary - An overview of your company, including an executive summary, mission statement, goals and objectives and a brief artist history.

B ) Market Analysis - Here you will analyze the current music market, with special focus on your genre of music. Include opportunities, competitors, trends, market size and growth potential.

C ) Company Description - Describe who you are, what you offer and the audience your business serves.

D ) Organization & Management Structure - A layout of your organizational structure. Are you an LLC, corporation or sole proprietorship? List the key team players, i.e. management, promotions, legal, accounting, etc.

E ) Marketing & Sales - How do you plan to market your music to the consumer (fans)? List your sales, product pricing and positioning strategies, marketing channels, ecommerce and communication strategies, as well as distribution and promotion networks.

F ) Products or Services - Explain the music related products and services your business is offering. Are you selling physical CDs or only digital downloads? Are you offering merch for sale such as T-shirts, posters, download cards and stickers? Do you have your own website outside of your social network that also serves as an online store for your music and merch?

G ) Funding Request or Needs - How much money do you need to get your operation off the ground? How much will you need for operation costs such as fixed and non-fixed expenses? Are you or your staff taking a salary? What are your costs for manufacturing, distribution and marketing?

H ) Financial Projections - How will your music business make money? What are the current and future revenue streams of your business? Be as clear as possible, investors hate ambiguity.

I ) Appendix (if needed) - If you already have an existing music business, use this section to add documents such as: revenue model, resume of owners (founders), cash flow statement, income statement, balance sheet and any other information that can help you stay on plan and attract the right people to your business.

6. Writing the plan using a  mind map

Just like creating a song, you will never really finish your business plan; you just have to stop and be okay with what you have. A business plan should evolve in sync with your business.

As a creative type, this is probably more than what you signed up for, but I assure you that it is a well worthwhile venture. Begin by creating an outline using the parameters I mentioned early. Some business plans are far more granular than what I have offered here, but use this information as a guide to establish the basic elements.

Artists, start your plan by creating a mind map. A mind map is a diagram that visually outlines information. Draw a circle in the center of a piece of paper and write the main idea or concept in the middle. Use lines to connect smaller circles with related ideas or subtopics. Once you’ve jotted down your thoughts, use the mind map to create an outline.

7. Pulling it all together

Once you have the first draft of your business plan, put it down and walk away for a few days. After a short mental vacation, review your plan and make corrections where necessary. Make sure it is properly formatted and free of errors.

Keep in mind that your music business plan is a living document that will serve as the roadmap for your career, but it should be fluid enough to adjust to changes in the market. Visit my website http://musicbusi nessguruacademy.com/businessplantemplate and download my free Word doc Music Business Plan template.

8. Distributing your music business plan (the final draft)

Once the final draft of your business plan is ready, distribute it across your organization and discuss it. Does the plan provide the reader with the key goals of your business? If so, your business plan can be used to help you launch a crowdfunding campaign, find an investor or take on business partners.

SAHPREEM A. KING is a Multiplatinum music producer, DJ, music industry journalist and author of several music industry books, including Dude, I Can Help You! 18 Mistakes Artists Make and How To Fix Them . King has used the knowledge he acquired as an artist, producer and educator to create an online music business course that he will offer from his website http://musicbusinessguruacademy.com in early 2014. He can be contacted at [email protected] .

ADK Microphones

Paisley and Underwood Sued

Music Connection

Published since 1977, Music Connection magazine is a monthly music trade publication catering to musicians, industry pro’s, and support services. Music Connection exists to serve artists and music people, to offer connections to the unconnected and to provide exclusive information that can help our readers take their music to the next level.

Related articles

Shatner Releases Prog-Rock Album

Pierce the veil rock hometown show.

Dee Snider To Be Honored At Rock & Roll Roast

Recommended.

QSC's Live Audio Webinars Continue in July

Delta Goodrem Records at United

Signing Story: Greta Van Fleet

• Advertise With Us

Need a business plan? Call now:

Talk to our experts:

• Business Plan for Investors
• Bank/SBA Business Plan
• Operational/Strategic Planning
• L1 Visa Business Plan
• E1 Treaty Trader Visa Business Plan
• E2 Treaty Investor Visa Business Plan
• EB1 Business Plan
• EB2 Visa Business Plan
• EB5 Business Plan
• Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan
• UK Start-Up Visa Business Plan
• UK Expansion Worker Visa Business Plan
• Manitoba MPNP Visa Business Plan
• Start-Up Visa Business Plan
• Nova Scotia NSNP Visa Business Plan
• British Columbia BC PNP Visa Business Plan
• Self-Employed Visa Business Plan
• OINP Entrepreneur Stream Business Plan
• LMIA Owner Operator Business Plan
• ICT Work Permit Business Plan
• LMIA Mobility Program – C11 Entrepreneur Business Plan
• USMCA (ex-NAFTA) Business Plan
• Franchise Business Planning 
• Landlord Business Plan 
• Nonprofit Start-Up Business Plan 
• USDA Business Plan
• Cannabis business plan 
• eCommerce business plan
• Online Boutique Business Plan
• Mobile Application Business Plan
• Daycare business plan
• Restaurant business plan
• Food Delivery Business Plan
• Real Estate Business Plan
• Business Continuity Plan
• Buy Side Due Diligence Services
• ICO whitepaper
• ICO consulting services
• Confidential Information Memorandum
• Private Placement Memorandum
• Feasibility study
• Fractional CFO
• How it works
• Business Plan Examples

Music Business Plans Sample

Dec.29, 2020

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 3

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Table of Content

Music Business plan for starting your own building firm

Do you want to start a music business? Well, that’s a really alluring and one of the most profitable businesses.

To run a music business, you need to hire the services of music artists, musicians, record producers, and composers on a temporary or permanent basis. The business can include creating songs, music sheets, stock music, and theme music. And can also be extended to cover events, ceremonies, and concerts.

The business is exciting, however, due to the large competition in the market, one has to put very much effort in the beginning to earn recognition. Like any other business, the first step would be to create a business plan for music industry. The professional business planning should cover all aspects of the business like workforce, work area, expenses, services, sales strategy, etc.

To give you an idea of how your business plan should look like, we are giving here the business plan of a music business startup, Hymns & Beats.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Hymns & Beats will be a licensed music business based in Atlanta. The business will comprise artists and musicians who will work to create new music pieces. The business will utilize the talent of various singers to release stock music, record labels, and theme music for corporates, events, TV shows, movies, and game developers.

2.2 Management of Music Business

A music company needs efficient management in all the areas such as reaching out to singers, making arrangements for concerts, making sure that the edit effects are perfect, etc. Realizing that she would not be able to supervise everything on her own, Amelia decided to hire a manager to help her.

If you are looking for how to start a music business you should study different music business plans. While exploring business plans on how to set up a music business, try to also explore the ways others use to manage multiple tasks of a business at the same time.

2.3 Customers of Music Business

Our primary customers will be the television shows and film industries who will seek our services for creating tunes, theme music, and songs. Besides, corporate, institutes, companies, game developers, and event organizers will also be our customers.

2.4 Business Target

Our target is to become one of the most renowned music businesses. We aim at releasing at least 10 albums within six months of the launch. We also aim at achieving a rating above 4.7 within a year of the launch. Our profit goals to be achieved within the three years of our launch are summarized here:

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Amelia Stiles will be the owner of Hymns & Beats. Amelia got her degree in Bachelor of Music from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Ohio.

During her schooling, she composed two music pieces that earned her national level fame.

3.2 Why the music business is being started

Amelia wanted to become a playback singer. She learned and practice music all her life and still couldn’t succeed in getting more than a few singing projects. Owing to her optimistic nature, she decided to find new ways to invest her passion for music. She decided not to sing but just compose the music pieces.

Realizing her creativity and skills in the music composing area, she decided to start her own music business. Now Amelia hires music artists and glorifies people’s lives with exceptional tunes and melodic voices.

3.3 How the music business will be started

Since there are many already established music industries in Atlanta, you should study different examples of music business plans. Exploring as many examples of music business plans as you can, will enable you to come up with unique ideas. Analyzing various music business plan samples will allow you to identify the areas where demand is high despite the large competition.

Hymns & Beats will be started in one of Amelia’s properties in Atlanta. Amelia will hire a home renovating professional to turn her property into a structure for the music business. Meanwhile, she will hire a professional business plan writer to make a comprehensive plan for her business.

Then Amelia will purchase the required musical instruments and other equipment like speakers, cables, amplifiers and microphone stands, etc. After which the startup will start its hiring phase. Staff like audio engineers, musicians, and DJs will be employed after strict testing and interviewing. Meanwhile, the company will ensure to establish a strong web and social media presence to get introduced to the target audience.

The costs for startup are as follows:

The startup requirements are as follows:

Before making a music business plans template, you should be very clear about the services you are going to provide your customers. In this sample plan, we are listing the services of Hymns & Beats. However, to get a broader idea of services that can be provided in this domain, you should study many other music industry business plans too.

1.Creating Production Music

Our primary service will be to produce music pieces that can be used in television, movies, and other media platforms after getting licensed to the buyers. Those music pieces will cover nearly all music genres such as classical, electronic dance, folk, and disco, etc.

This service will also include producing specific music pieces according to the client’s requirements.

2.Record Labels

We will also release albums and songs made with the collaboration of our team with top-class singers and songwriters.

3.Theme Music For TV Shows, Movies, Trailers & Video Games, Commercials

Our third primary service will be to create instrumental and theme music to be used in the background of movies, trailers, video games, commercials, and reality shows, etc.

4.Corporate Background Music

We will also create professional music themes to be used by companies and corporates in their presentations.

5.Hosting Concerts, Music Festivals & Parties

This will be one of our major services. We will host music nights, concerts, events, and parties. We will also offer the service of presenting music and songs in ceremonies according to the nature of the gathering.

Marketing Analysis of Music Business

The most important component of starting a music studio business plan is marketing analysis. It includes a detailed study of your target market to understand the areas where competition is high or to identify the domains where the demand for your services can be more.

Thus, before you start a music business you should study the dynamics of the marketplace where you will be offering your services. In this music business plan concept pdf we are listing market analysis and market segmentation done by Hymns & Beats for their business. If you are looking for how to write a music business proposal or how to create an efficient marketing plan, you can take help from here.

5.1 Marketing Trends

According to IBISWorld, the average growth that has been reported in the music industry in the last five years is 5.5%. Moreover, Statista reports that the annual revenue generated by the U.S. music industry was recorded to be $21.5 billion in 2019 alone. Simply put, the music industries have always been in demand. To succeed, you just need to be proactive in reaching target customers and creative enough to meet their expectations.

Business plan for investors

5.2 marketing segmentation.

The detailed marketing segmentation of our target audience is as follows:

5.2.1 TV Programs & Film Industries: Our primary customers will be the television shows and programs that need different background music for different segments and for transitions of one segment to another.

Besides, film producers will require our services to create music pieces for trailers and songs. We also expect this group to avail of our services of producing background and themed instrumental music.

5.2.2 Commercials (TV ads) Production Companies: The second group of our target customers will comprise of commercials producing companies. We expect to get projects from this category from the very beginning as video ad creators usually don’t need music producers with past experience.

5.2.3 Video Game Developers, Corporates & Event Organizers: The third category of our target customers consists of video game developers who need music to be played in the background. This category also includes corporates who need professional background music for their presentations.

Apart from them, we also expect to be called by events and party organizers for playing music, singing songs, and setting up musical nights. We also look forward to being invited to cultural ceremonies for displaying the skills and talent we have.

5.3 Business Target

Our business targets are:

• To achieve the net profit margin of $9.1k per month by the end of the first year
• To release at least 10 albums hitting a ranking of above 4.8 by the end of the first six months
• To host at least 10 concerts within six months of the launch
• To achieve an average ranking above 4.75 within a year of the launch.
• To balance the initial cost of the startup with earned profits by the end of the second year

5.4 Product Pricing

Since we are not selling any discrete products therefore we can’t define a strict product pricing strategy. Our prices will vary with the required mastery, the difficulty level of the track and music, etc.

However, in the beginning, we will offer massive discounts on our services of hosting musical events and ceremonies and also in our theme music creation service.

Marketing Strategy

Like marketing analysis, sales strategy for business is also an important component of a music business marketing plan. Sales strategy enables you to attract your potential customers, and compete with your already-established competitors.

From this music business proposal sample, you can learn the competitive aspects and advertisement strategy of Hymns & Beats.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Although we have tough competition, we have entered the market with several competitive aspects. Firstly, we have an excellent team that will help us develop unique music pieces. Secondly, we are collaborating with top singers and songwriters to come up with exclusive albums.

Moreover, we will be offering background music production services for video games and trailers online. So that will enable us to reach a wider audience.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• We will establish a strong web and social media presence through SEO optimization
• We will advertise our services through Google Local Services ads, local newspapers, and magazines
• We will arrange a themed musical night for the young people on the day of launch for an entry ticket of just $3
• We will offer a 20% discount on our theme music production services for the first three months of the launch
• We will offer a 50% discount on our offering of playback wedding music by our singers and musicians

6.3 Sales Forecast

6.4 sales monthly, 6.5 sales yearly, excellent work.

excellent work, competent advice. Alex is very friendly, great communication. 100% I recommend CGS capital. Thank you so much for your hard work!

Personnel plan

Your business is just a collective representation of your staff and managers. So before proceeding to other steps, you should create your personnel plan in a template for writing a music business plan.

Here we are only listing the permanent staff of the company. The singers and songwriters whose services will be hired temporarily for record albums are not mentioned in this list.

7.1 Company Staff

• 1 General Manager to manage the overall operations
• 1 Cashier to maintain financial records
• 2 DJs to assume musical responsibilities in concerts and events
• 4 Musicians to play musical instruments
• 1 Audio Engineer to regulate music effects
• 2 Software/ IT Experts to ensure web and social media presence
• 1 Sales Executive to promote the company’s sales
• 2 General Assistants for routine works
• 1 Receptionist

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

Making a music business plan is a little tricky as you have to devise a plan to manage your permanent as well as temporary resources. For example, while creating a financial plan for the music business, you have to consider fluctuations in the price of services. The albums that need to be sung or written by high paid singers and songwriters will require you to reserve a bigger than usual budget.

It is recommended to seek professional help in creating the financial plan for your business. To give you an example of how it would look like, we are providing here the sample financial plan of Hymns & Beats.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 brake-even analysis, 8.3 projected profit and loss, 8.3.1 profit monthly, 8.3.2 profit yearly, 8.3.3 gross margin monthly, 8.3.4 gross margin yearly, 8.4 projected cash flow, 8.5 projected balance sheet, 8.6 business ratios.

Download Music Business Plans Sample in pdf

OGS capital professional writers specialized also in themes such as bowling alley business plan , business plan for bouncy castle , nightclub business plans , starting paintball business , business plan for hotel and resort , roller skating rink business plan and many other business plans.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

Vegetable Farming Business Plan

Trading Business Plan

How To Write A Textile Manufacturing Business Plan

Start a Vending Machine Business in 2024: A Detailed Guide

Oil and Gas Business Plan

What Is Strategic Planning: Definition and Process

Any questions? Get in Touch!

We have been mentioned in the press:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Search the site:

500+ business plans and financial models

Manufacturing Business Plan PDF Example

• May 7, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful manufacturing business. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your manufacturing business’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a manufacturing business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the manufacturing industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your manufacturing business concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our manufacturing business plan covers all essential aspects necessary for a comprehensive strategy. It details operations, marketing strategy , market environment, competitors, management team, and financial forecasts.

• Executive Summary : Provides an overview of the manufacturing company’s business concept, market analysis , management, and financial strategy.
• Facilities & Equipment: Describes the facility’s capabilities, machinery, and technological advancements.
• Operations & Supply: Outlines the production processes, supply chain logistics, and inventory management.
• Key Stats: Offers data on industry size , growth trends, and market positioning.
• Key Trends: Highlights significant trends impacting the industry, such as automation and localization.
• Key Competitors : Analyzes primary competitors and differentiates the company from these rivals.
• SWOT: Analyzes strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Marketing Plan : Outlines tactics for attracting new contracts and maintaining client relationships.
• Timeline : Sets out key milestones from inception through the first year of operations.
• Management: Information on the management team and their roles within the company.
• Financial Plan: Projects the company’s financial performance over the next five years, detailing revenue, profits, and anticipated expenses.

Manufacturing Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your manufacturing business plan, offering a concise overview of your manufacturing facility and its products. It should detail your market positioning, the range of products manufactured, the production process, its location, size, and an outline of day-to-day operations.

This section should also explore how your manufacturing business will integrate into the local and broader markets, including the number of direct competitors within the area, identifying who they are, along with your business’s unique selling points that differentiate it from these competitors.

Furthermore, you should include information about the management and co-founding team, detailing their roles and contributions to the business’s success. Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be presented here to provide a clear picture of your business’s financial plan.

Make sure to cover here _ Business Overview _ Market Overview _ Management Team _ Financial Plan

Dive deeper into Executive Summary

Business Overview

Facilities & equipment.

Describe your manufacturing facility. Highlight its design, capacity, and technology. Mention the location, emphasizing accessibility to transport routes. Discuss advantages for efficiency and cost management. Detail essential equipment and its capabilities.

Operations & Supply Chain

Detail product range. Outline your operations strategy for efficiency and scalability. Discuss supply chain management. Highlight sourcing of materials, inventory control, and logistics. Emphasize strong partnerships with suppliers and distributors.

Make sure to cover here _ Facilities & Equipment _ Operations & Supplies

Market Overview

Industry size & growth.

Start by examining the size of the manufacturing industry relevant to your products and its growth potential. This analysis is crucial for understanding the market’s scope and identifying expansion opportunities.

Key Market Trends

Proceed to discuss recent market trends , such as the increasing demand for sustainable manufacturing processes, automation, and advanced materials. For example, highlight the demand for products that utilize eco-friendly materials or energy-efficient production techniques, alongside the rising popularity of smart manufacturing.

Key Competitors

Then, consider the competitive landscape, which includes a range of manufacturers from large-scale enterprises to niche firms. For example, emphasize what makes your business distinctive, whether it’s through advanced technology, superior product quality, or specialization in certain manufacturing niches. This section will help articulate the demand for your products, the competitive environment, and how your business is positioned to thrive within this dynamic market.

Make sure to cover here _ Industry size & growth _ Key competitors _ Key market trends

Dive deeper into Key competitors

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for your manufacturing business. Highlight Strengths such as advanced production technology and a skilled workforce. Address Weaknesses, including potential supply chain vulnerabilities or high production costs. Identify Opportunities like emerging markets for your products or potential for innovation in production processes. Consider Threats such as global competition or economic downturns that may impact demand for your products.

Marketing Plan

Next, develop a marketing strategy that outlines how to attract and retain customers through targeted advertising, trade shows, digital marketing, and strategic partnerships. Emphasize the importance of showcasing product quality and technological advantages to differentiate your business in the market.

Finally, create a detailed timeline that outlines critical milestones for your manufacturing business’s launch, marketing initiatives, customer acquisition, and expansion goals. Ensure the business progresses with clear direction and purpose, setting specific dates for achieving key operational and sales targets.

Make sure to cover here _ SWOT _ Marketing Plan _ Timeline

Dive deeper into SWOT

Dive deeper into Marketing Plan

The Management section focuses on the manufacturing business’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the manufacturing business toward its financial and operational goals.

For your manufacturing business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

Financial Plan

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your manufacturing business’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your manufacturing business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

Privacy Overview

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Oil Companies Expand Offshore Drilling, Pointing to Energy Needs

Shell and others say they plan to drill for oil and gas in the Gulf of Mexico in part because doing so releases fewer greenhouse gases than drilling on land.

By Ivan Penn

Reporting from Shell’s Appomattox offshore platform, New Orleans, Houston and Los Angeles

About 80 miles southeast of Louisiana’s coast, 100,000 metric tons of steel floats in the Gulf of Mexico, an emblem of the hopes of oil and gas companies.

This hulk of metal, a deepwater platform called Appomattox and owned by Shell, collects the oil and gas that rigs tap from reservoirs thousands of feet below the seafloor. Equipment on the platform pipes that fuel to shore.

Political and corporate leaders have pledged to reduce planet-warming emissions to net-zero by 2050. But oil companies like Shell are betting that the world will need oil and gas for decades to come. To serve that demand, they are expanding offshore oil and gas drilling into deeper and deeper waters, especially here in the Gulf of Mexico.

Offshore production, oil executives argue, is not only crucial to power cars, trucks and power plants but also better for the planet than drilling on land. That’s because such operations emit far less of the greenhouse gases that are warming the planet than producing the same amount of oil and gas on land, according to industry estimates.

“The world will continue to need oil, by the way, even in 2050,” Wael Sawan, chief executive of Shell, said in a recent interview. “It will have to be lower and lower emissions.”

The greenhouse gas emissions associated with extracting a barrel of oil from the Gulf of Mexico are as much as a third lower than emissions from producing a barrel of oil from fields on U.S. soil, according to a report published last year by the National Ocean Industries Association , an industry group for offshore oil, gas and wind businesses. (Those numbers do not include the emissions created when fossil fuels are burned in engines or power plants, which are much greater than emissions from producing and refining oil and gas.)

Oil production in the Gulf of Mexico fell for several years after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon explosion caused the worst offshore oil spill in U.S. history. But the gulf’s oil output has been rising over the last decade. The renewed interest in offshore production is part of a larger trend: The United States has recently set records for oil production, extracting more crude than any other country.

Booming oil and gas production in the United States has alarmed climate activists and scientists who want the energy industry to pivot more quickly to cleaner fuels and technologies like wind and solar power and electric vehicles.

“We’re not talking about stopping oil production today,” said Brettny Hardy, a senior lawyer in the Oceans Program at Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental law organization. “But no matter how you look at it, there’s a really dire need to accelerate this shift to clean energy. The things the industry is doing now is not going to help that transition.”

To many environmentalists, offshore fossil fuel production’s potential for disaster is significant. The spill caused by the Deepwater Horizon rig , which was operated by BP, resulted in significant damage to marine life, the fishing industry and the Gulf of Mexico’s beaches.

The spill helped bring attention to Rice’s whale , which lives only in the Gulf of Mexico and is classified by the federal government as an endangered species. Fewer than 100 of these whales are left because of incidents like the Deepwater Horizon spill and collisions with vessels.

“The concern and worry is there for the right reasons because we have been burned once because of Deepwater Horizon,” said Najmedin Meshkati, a professor of engineering at the University of Southern California who served on a National Academies committee that studied that spill.

The Biden administration had planned to scale back lease sales for oil drilling in the gulf, which environmentalists said would help protect Rice’s whales. In August, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management reduced the area available for leases from 73 million acres to 67 million acres.

But in November, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit rejected the administration’s plans. A month later, oil companies offered $382 million for the right to drill for more oil and gas.

Oil executives say offshore oil operations are far less dangerous now thanks to advances in technology and improvements in standards and regulations. “Offshore oil and natural gas exploration and production is the safest it’s ever been,” said Holly Hopkins, vice president of upstream policy at the American Petroleum Institute, a trade group.

Energy companies favor drilling in the gulf because there is a lot of oil and gas there, especially under very deep waters. The number of deep water platforms have grown dramatically over the last three decades, while those in shallow waters have declined, according to the American Petroleum Institute.

Federal government analysts estimate that oil production in the Gulf of Mexico will grow through 2027. Natural gas production in the gulf is expected to largely remain flat through the early 2030s.

Shell is the biggest oil and gas producer in the region’s waters. Its outsize presence in the gulf is on display at Appomattox, which has a displacement bigger than the world’s largest aircraft carrier, according to the company.

The platform was brought online in 2019 and can house up to 180 people. It stays in place as ships drill wells near it and connect those wells by pipe to the platform, where equipment separates oil, natural gas and water.

Shell recently launched a smaller floating platform, the Whale, which can house up to 60 people. Another unit, Sparta, is under development. In all, Shell, a London-based global energy giant, operates nine active platforms — including four with built-in drill rigs — in the Gulf of Mexico.

On a reporter’s recent visit to Appomattox, about 130 people were working on board, including oil and gas engineers, cooks, janitors, a medic and laundry facility operators who keep washers and dryers spinning 24 hours a day.

Crews live on the platform for 14 consecutive days, working 12-hour shifts. They return to homes across the world for two weeks, before coming back for another 14-day stint.

There is a sense of pride among those aboard, though they recognize that many people think their industry is destroying the planet.

“There is another side that people don’t talk about,” said Matt Flanakin, a ballast control operator on Appomattox for Shell. “We know there’s a need to reduce carbon emissions. But we still need fossil fuels.”

The platform floats on the deep blue waters with little else in sight. On occasion, a drill rig ship appears in the distance. These vessels are scouring the seafloor for sources of oil.

The platforms create artificial reefs that attract fish and dolphin pods to Appomattox, said Rich Howe, executive vice president of Shell’s global deepwater business.

Shell is not alone in expanding its operations offshore. BP, Chevron and other energy giants are also expanding or planning to expand operations in the Gulf of Mexico.

“This is the cradle of global deepwater,” Mr. Howe said. “It’s where a lot of the technologies were invented.”

The gulf has an extensive network of pipelines and equipment that helps deliver the oil and gas directly to onshore facilities with little processing through pipelines. That makes extracting oil and gas from underground reservoirs in the gulf more efficient, ultimately helping to produce less emissions.

Technology has also reduced the need for as many offshore workers, who are flown by helicopter to platforms and drill rigs. Some control room operators work remotely onshore. And the companies say they are minimizing the amount of natural gas they burn off during a process called “flaring.”

“We want it to be as secure, affordable and as low-carbon as it can be,” said Andy Krieger, a senior vice president for the Gulf of Mexico and Canada at BP, which has five platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.

But plans by oil giants, especially those based in Europe, to invest in offshore production strike some climate experts as a retreat from the companies’ renewable-energy investments in recent years.

Mr. Sawan, the Shell chief executive, is clear that the company should focus on the businesses it knows best, a category that includes oil, natural gas and hydrogen. He said it should let other companies, including businesses with which Shell has financial and commercial relationships, develop renewable sources like solar power.

That doesn’t mean Shell is uninterested in newer parts of the energy sector, he added. He singled out electric vehicle charging as an area where his company plans to expand. To that end, Shell recently announced that it would close 1,000 gasoline stations, or about 2 percent of its retail presence, in 2024 and 2025 and expand its electric vehicle charging network to 200,000 public charging points globally by 2030, from about 55,000 now.

“At the end of the day,” Mr. Sawan said at a recent energy conference in Houston, “the real intent here is to be able to bring that multidimensional nature of the energy transition and move this dialogue that seems to fixate on ‘Is it oil and gas, or is it solar and wind?’ It’s all, and we need them in abundance.”

Ivan Penn is a reporter based in Los Angeles and covers the energy industry. His work has included reporting on clean energy, failures in the electric grid and the economics of utility services. More about Ivan Penn

Explore Our Business Coverage

Dive deeper into the people, issues and trends shaping the world of business..

Turbulence in TV News: ​​As an especially divisive presidential race looms, ABC, NBC, CBS and CNN all face questions about their future .

Start-Up Stocks: Tensions in Silicon Valley over the shadowy and often enigmatic market of private company stocks  have reached a boiling point.

Finding a Powerful Voice: Women in Shanghai are gathering in bars, salons and bookstores to reclaim their feminist identities  as China’s leader calls for the country to adopt a “childbearing culture.”

Tesla’s Pullback: The automaker led by Elon Musk is no longer planning to take the lead in expanding the number of places to fuel electric vehicles. It’s not clear how quickly other companies will fill the gap .

A ‘Not Charlotte’ Recipe:  North Carolina’s Triad region was built on tobacco, textiles and furniture. Now it’s trying to forge a new economy from more highly skilled manufacturing .

Don't bother with copy and paste.

Get this complete sample business plan as a free text document.

Music Recording Distribution Business Plan

Start your own music recording distribution business plan

HeavyMetal Praise Records

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Youth will be served!  For the past 10 years, Christian music has made strong inroads in every area of popular music except for the vital and chaotic world of Heavy Metal music. Heavy Metal Praise Records will focus only on recording Christian Heavy Metal performers, promoting their success in the popular mainstream of Punk and Ska music.

1.1 Objectives

• Sign and record two new Heavy Metal bands in the first year.
• Release the first CD of each group in the first year.
• Establish a strong distribution network that will facilitate CD sales.
• Establish the necessary strategic alliances to assure the widest possible distribution of our music.

1.2 Mission

The idea of Heavy Metal Praise Records is the brainchild of a group of dedicated Christians who created the Skate Ministry over three years ago. The Skate Ministry is a group of 10 adult skateboarders who spread the word of God to young skateboarders during the weekend at various skate parks throughout the area. Most of these young skateboarders are boys between the ages of 12 to 18. The predominant music in the skateboard culture is Heavy Metal and is played at every skatepark in the area. From the beginning the group realized that the music itself was creating negative actions on the part of young skateboarders and was facilitating a culture of selfishness and violence.

Heavy Metal Praise’s mission is to introduce Christian Heavy Metal bands to the target audience that gives the same musical intensity of popular Heavy Metal bands but with a more positive, constructive message that will move young people to a closer relationship with God.

1.3 Keys to Success

• Delivering Heavy Metal groups that the target audience will find irresistible.
• Access the music and distribution network that feeds Heavy Metal artists to the skate culture.
• Access the traditional Christian music and distribution network that will provide a ready-made group of customers for Heavy Metal Praise Records artists.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Heavy Metal Praise Records is a recording business that will focus exclusively on Christian Heavy Metal music groups.

2.1 Company Ownership

The sole founder and owner of Heavy Metal Praise Records is Johnny Young. Johnny is also a founding member of the Skate Ministry and a skateboarder for the last 20 years. 

2.2 Start-up Summary

Heavy Metal Praise Records has the following start-up expenses and the purchase of equipment:

• Computer system with three workstations, a printer, CD-RW, Microsoft Office, and Microsoft Access.
• Legal fees regarding business formation and generating and reviewing contracts.
• Copier, fax, and a phone line.

Various office supplies.

Heavy Metal Praise Records, as the name implies, produces CDs of Heavy Metal Christian music groups.

The typical Heavy Metal Praise Records buyer is in the 13-22 year old age bracket–and is a direct result of the attitudes expressed by the label’s bands. The spirit of youth is the driving force of the label, offering proof that the energy of Heavy Metal Praise music exists beyond constraints and categorizations.

While Heavy Metal Praise Records hates to pigeonhole any of its artists’ musical sounds, it can be generalized that all the bands convey an in-your-face sound Christian music. This sound, when coupled with each band’s own creativity and inspiration, allows for the artists to maintain their identity while sharing the same energy, focus and often fan base with their label mates. Heavy Metal Praise Records is an artist-friendly label, priding itself on giving its bands complete artistic and creative freedom.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Heavy Metal music is the music of preference among boys and young men, ages 12-22, who are part of the skateboarding culture. Heavy Metal music generated $180 million dollars in sales last year.

Skateboarding has grown into an enormously popular recreational sport that generated 1/2 billion dollars in sales last year. Each year the base of skateboarder grows even larger. The sport is still enjoyed by young men in their thirties. In many cases, these older skateboarders still enjoy Heavy Metal music. This represents a huge market opportunity for Christian music.

Heavy Metal Praise Records will focus on two customer groups:

• Early teen skateboarder.
• Late teen skateboarder.

4.1 Market Segmentation

• Early Teen Skateboarders: This group has limited mobility to attend most Heavy Metal group performances. Yet they represent the largest consumer group of Heavy Metal music. Generally, this target group hears the music from friends, at skateboard parks and at skateboard shops.
• Late Teen Skateboarders: This group represents the strong fan base that comes out for live performances at local clubs. They are also exposed to the music at skateboard parks and skateboard shops. It is critical to build a secure fan base with this group in order to generate sales among the younger skate boarders.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

Heavy Metal Praise Records will use their competitive advantages in a new musical area of Christian music to steadily gain market share. The first advantage is based on Johnny’s extensive inside knowledge of the recording industry. The second advantage is an already established network of contacts within the industry.

5.1 Competitive Edge

Presently, there are few Christian Heavy Metal bands with CDs in the marketplace. The only real competition is the acceptance of the skateboard culture. Can a Heavy Metal group with a christian message gain a fan base? The success of a Heavy Metal band is dependent on its fan base and its live performances. If the energy is there, the fan base will grow and CD sales will follow.

Heavy Metal Praise Records understands that their bands must have the energy before the message will be heard.

5.2 Marketing Strategy

Heavy Metal Praise Records has established the following Promotion and Distribution strategies.

5.2.1 Promotion Strategy

• Early Teens: Heavy Metal Praise recording artists will be marketed at the weekly sponsored skateboarding events by the Skate Ministry. A band will play at each event during the summer months. In addition, Heavy Metal Praise recording artists will perform as part of the concert series sponsored by Rally Skateboards. At these events, free CD samplers will be given out of Heavy Metal Praise recording artists.
• Late Teens: Heavy Metal Praise recording artists will be booked to play extensively during the summer of 2002. A Heavy Metal Praise band will be part of the “Split Cross” tour in the region. Split Cross is a Christian music website and a strategic partner of Heavy Metal Praise recording. At these events, free CD samplers will be given out of Heavy Metal Praise recording artists.

5.2.2 Distribution Strategy

Brought to you by

Create a professional business plan

Using ai and step-by-step instructions.

Secure funding

Validate ideas

Build a strategy

5.3 Strategic Alliances

The strategic alliance with the Coalition of Independent Music Stores (CIMS) and Straight Arrow holds great potential.

• Straight Arrow is a distribution system for Christian artists who want to buck the system and do it without major label backing. The amazing thing is: it truly works. Some of the most sincere, yet cutting edge artists existing today are available to purchase at the Straight Arrow website. They will focus on building sales in the field of Heavy Metal music starting with Heavy Metal Praise artists.
• Coalition of Independent Music Stores represents a distribution system of 10,000 stores nationally. CIMS creates its own sales programs that focus on independent artists. They have committed to packaging Heavy Metal Praise Recording artists to its regional members. With the bands’ success, they plan to distribute the CDs nationally.

5.4 Sales Strategy

Our combined sales strategy of distributing our product online and in stores will result in the following first year sales goals:

• 5,000 CDs sold online.
• 10,000 CDs sold in stores.

The sales totals represent only six months of sales activity. The first six months will be focused on signing the bands and producing the recording.

5.4.1 Sales Forecast

The following table and chart presents specific sales forecasts by month, over the first year of development. Years two and three are cumulative totals only.

5.5 Milestones

Heavy Metal Praise Records will have several milestones:

• Sign two Heavy Metal Christian bands.
• Produce two new recordings during the first six months of operation.
• Release recordings in six months.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

Heavy Metal Praise Records is solely operated by Johnny Young. Johnny is a Christian music industry veteran with over 13 years of music ministry experience with extensive connections with producers and distributors. Johnny toured the USA with the CCM group “Seeds of Change” between 1991 and 1998. It was during this time that Johnny felt God calling him into a ministry that would usher in Heavy Metal music that was so powerful, so fresh…that people would sense the spirit of God and come to a realization that God desired each and every one of His creations to know Him intimately.

This will be a one person business for a while. Johnny’s planned salary is shown in the Personnel table below.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The following sections will outline the general financial assumptions, break-even analysis, profit and loss, cash flow, balance sheet and business ratios.

7.1 Important Assumptions

The following table shows some of the basic financial assumptions used in this business plan.

7.2 Break-even Analysis

The Break-even Analysis indicates approximately $1,700 is needed in monthly revenue to break even. The Estimated Monthly Fixed Cost varies over the course of the first year, as seen in the P & L appendix table, and this figure is an average based on the first-year totals.

7.3 Projected Profit and Loss

The following table will indicate projected profit and loss.

7.4 Projected Cash Flow

Heavy Metal Praise will begin with adequate investment to cover the beginning months of negative cash flow and, as shown below, have an overall increase in cash balance by the end of the first plan year.

7.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The following chart and table indicates balance sheet.

7.6 Business Ratios

Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7929, Musical Groups and Artists, are shown for comparison.

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software

BP looks to expand EV charging unit in US after Tesla disbands Supercharger team

• Medium Text

• Company Bp Plc Follow
• Company ChargePoint Holdings Inc Follow
• Company EVgo Inc Follow

Sign up here.

Reporting by Akash Sriram and Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar and Shailesh Kuber

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Business Chevron

Arm Holdings plans to launch AI chips in 2025, Nikkei reports

SoftBank Group's Arm Holdings , plans to develop artificial-intelligence chips, seeking to launch the first products in 2025, Nikkei Asia reported on Sunday.