by Brian Parker

In September, Digital Music News publisher and founder Paul Resnikoff published a wildly popular article on the state of music industry called “The 13 Most Insidious, Pervasive Lies of the Modern Music Industry…” which has racked up over 34,000 likes over the last few months. The article lists thirteen purported misconceptions about the industry and the implications of trying to establish a career as an independent artist, with fiery statements on labels, publishing, touring, crowdfunding, and of course, the highly debated topic of the season, streaming services. Music industry sage Thom Yorke gave the article his full approval, and comments on the Digital Music News website poured in for about 2 months.

When Resnikoff asked independent musician and writer Ari Herstand to contribute to DMN, he agreed to do so under one condition: that he would “not going to censor [his] opinion – even if it’s completely opposite of  [Paul's].”  Herstand’s “Why Thom Yorke and Digital Music News Are Completely Wrong” debunks several of the “lies” that Resnikoff presented, citing personal experience as evidence for his claims.

Herstand specifically addresses the money he earns touring and selling merchandise, the promotion he’s received through streaming services, and the funding he has earned on Kickstarter. Herstand is a self-proclaimed “middle-class musician” who, like many others, makes a living through “touring, TV placements, sponsorships, session work, co-writing royalties, scoring, music lessons, and freelance gigging,” shedding light on a shifting, but not necessarily crumbling music industry.

You can read the two pieces and decide for yourself whose take is more accurate, though I think there is a good deal of truth in both ends of the spectrum. It’s never been easier to be cynical about the industry, but we should find ways to change, rather than constantly criticize an evolving business.

Thanks to Digital Music News for spurring healthy debate on these topics, as cultural (particularly music) publications often filter their opinions for “consistency.” And be sure to check out Ari Herstand’s blog Ari’s Take for great insight on how to be successful as an independent artist.

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