A couple of videos by David Ellefson, bassist for MEGADETH about royalties. He does a pretty good job of providing a simple explanation of the two types of royalties paid on recordings: "artist royalties" and "mechanical royalties." On the first video he talks about "artist royalties" which is money paid to the band or artist that actually performed the song on the recording (after the band or artist recoups or pays back all of the money the record company loaned to the band or artist) and "mechanical royalties" which is money paid to the song writer (without a need to recoup).

Not a day goes by without considering this question. Should I associate with a record company and make no money but rely on the record company to put some money into my new recording, create a buzz, and get it out there to the public. Or, should I do this all myself and make some money in addition to getting my music out to the public?

I hear the question over and over and the answer is very simple. You need an entertainment lawyer: 1. Whenever someone sticks a document under your nose and asks you to sign; 2. When you decide you want to make a full-time career out of being a musician or artist.

A Motherload of links to the overwhelming number of sites that can help you with your online music business. Organized by categories - take 'em one category-at-a-time. Use the list to build a simple business plan.

How a band does business - a simple plan to get started

How a music publisher can help you make money with your music

How to Get DIY Exposure For Your Band

Art suffers the moment other people start paying for it.  The more you need the money, the more people will tell you what to do.  The less control you will have.  The more bullshit you will have to swallow.  The less joy it will bring.  Know this and plan accordingly.  Hugh MacLeod from Ignore Everybody. [...]

If you have finally realized that you and your band are in the music business, this is a good time to start thinking about hiring a lawyer to help you manage some of the business and legal aspects of your music business.  So, just what are the aspects of your music business that you should [...]