MUS 309: Beatles to Beyoncé: Exploring the Business of Music

In this course, we will explore the development and current state of the music and entertainment industries in the United States. Students will gain an understanding of the fundamental business principles, practices, and terminology used in the 20th and 21stcentury music industries. Specifically, we will pay special attention to the structure of the major and independent music record companies, do-it-yourself (DIY) marketing and promotional strategies, and how music, politics, race, gender, and technology intersect in the music industry. Overall, this course aims to provide conceptual and practical ways of interacting with the contemporary US music industry to students of all musical skills levels, interests, and knowledge.