The Art of Business in Music: Entertainment Industry, #21724

By Pete Warner

"The Art of Business in Music" is a raw, riveting, and unvarnished account of my journey through the music industry. Consider this book a VIP backstage pass into the intricate world of music and the business of entertainment, providing you with a set of virtual keys to steer through this volatile industry with enhanced clarity. It casts a spotlight on the often-shadowy aspects of the entertainment sector, revealing them through the lens of my personal journey. Please note that this book is a sharing of my personal experiences and observations, and should not be taken as professional advice. It's an invitation to walk in my shoes, to see the industry from an insider's perspective, and to use that knowledge as a compass in your own journey. It's about sharing experiences and insights, not about advising or guiding, that job is for the lawyers you hire.

 

This book is not the average ordinary music business narrative; it's a revelation. It's a testament to my resilience, my unvarnished truth, and my faith in God. It's about survival, about navigating the complex, and sometimes dark corridors of this industry, and emerging stronger. Every word, sentence, and page is a reflection of what I've encountered and survived, the contracts I've negotiated, the deals I've made both good and bad, and the outcomes I've faced, with no holds barred details.

 

But this book is more than just a reflection of my encounters. It's a reference point, a map of additional understanding that might come in handy in your journey. 'The Art of Business in Music' could be that ray of light, for those lost in the chaos of the industry, a lifeline for those who may need that extra ounce of clarity.

This book is a must-have tool for those brave enough to venture into the world of the entertainment industry. Each line is written to resonate within you, the reader, to make you feel, to help you realize the depth of my truth. I purposely authored this book to help you proactively navigate through your circumstances in this industry with a better understanding from another perspective.

 

This book is not meant to just be read, it's meant to be felt, experienced, and lived. It's a journey that begins with the first word and doesn't end until the last. It's a testament to the power of truth, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. The Art of Business in Music is a source of insight and understanding that will help illuminate your paths as you travel through your unfamiliar areas of the business in music.

 

Are you looking to deepen your expertise in the entertainment and music industry? Ready to challenge your current understanding and equip yourself with new insights that could be the key to closing deals or resolving standstills? Interested in discovering alternative strategies that could pave the way to success? If anything, I've penned here resonates with you, then it's a good idea to pick up your copy of this book today.

 

Approximately 220 pages

• Language: English
• Publisher: Brooklyn Icy Publishing
• Release date: Apr 20, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224514090

Pete Warner

Pete Warner, also known as Peter H. Kessler, is a seasoned professional in the entertainment industry with expertise in music composition, arrangement, recording, production, technology, and business affairs. His significant collaboration with Rainy Davis, particularly their hit song "Sweetheart," has earned him gold and multi-platinum RIAA awards and a Grammy nomination. In technology, Warner has invented an AI tool for educators and individuals with and without ASD, marking a new growth phase in his career. His journey, characterized by faith, resilience, and perseverance, serves as an inspiration for those venturing into the industry.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Copyright Page

Copyright ©2024 by Peter H. Kessler p/k/a Pete Warner – Author

Published by Brooklyn Icy, LLC - All rights reserved.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except where otherwise notated and permitted by U.S. copyright law.

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that neither the author nor the publisher is engaged in rendering legal, investment, accounting or other professional services. While the publisher and author have used their best efforts in preparing this book, they make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of this book and specifically disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. No warranty may be created or extended by sales representatives or written sales materials. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. You should consult with a professional when appropriate. Neither the publisher nor the author shall be liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damages, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, personal, or other damages.

Book Cover Concept Design: by Pete Warner

Illustrations Created by: Pete Warner

First Edition 02172024 edition 2024

Chapter 2

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Copyright Page

Chapter 2

Table of Contents

Chapter 3

Dedication

Chapter 4

Acknowledgments

Chapter 5

Foreword

Chapter 6

Foreword II

Chapter 7

Preface

Chapter 8

Epigraph

Chapter 9

Introduction

Chapter 10

The Beginning

a - 1st Steps in Music

b - Grow My Network

c – 1st Major Label Deal

d - 1st Round of Up’s & Downs

e - Venturing into the Unknown

F - Headed Back Home

Chapter 11

Building the Band

 How I Built the Band

Chapter 12

The Genesis of a Hit Record

a - The Right Song!

b - The Demo Process

c - The Recording Process

d - The First Spec Deal

e - Saddest Day of My Life

f - Terminate the Contract

g - Booking Agent – Showtime!

h - Second Spec Deal

h - Co-Publishing Deal

i – Know When to Exit a Bad Deal

j – Found My Contract Loopholes

k - Major Label Shopping

l – Contract Buy Out, Exit Complete

m – New Deal w/ Columbia Records

n - Ten Years After

o - Twenty-Three Years Later

Chapter 13

Making It in Music

a - Grabbing the Golden Ring

b - Can you handle the Spotlight?

c – Be Professional, Be Discerning

Chapter 14

Analogue 2 Digital

a - The Analog Era

b - The Digital Era

c - Keep 100% of Your royalties?

d - File Backups

Chapter 15

From no one cares, to Superstar!

a – Always Protect Yourself!

b - Artist, Pubco, Tour Contracts

c - Company Formation

d - Your Talent & Contracts

e - Marketing & Promotion Costs

f - Advances

g - Limit Participation

h - Learn How to Pass on a Deal

i - Monitoring Your Content

j - Government Name, or Not?

Chapter 16

Sessions: Live vs DAW

a - Live Sessions vs DAW Sessions

b - Analog Recording Equipment

c - Live Session Recording

d - Daw Recording and Production

e - Producing with Live Musicians

f - Hiring the Right Musicians

g – Arrangers Role in Production

h - Scheduling Your Live Sessions

i - The Live Recording Sessions

j - Counting on the House Engineers Opinions?

k - Start Recording the Tracks

l - Prepare for the Lead Vocal Sessions

m - Prepare for the Background Vocal Sessions

n - Sweetening Sessions

o - Don’t Overproduce Your Project

p - Prepare for Final Mixing

q - Insights on Live Recording

r - Producing with DAW’s

s - Get into Your Zone

t - Final Mixing Your DAW Projects

u - Insights on DAW Sessions

Chapter 17

Major vs Independent Label

What’s Involved, What’s Entailed?

Chapter 18

The Label Evolution

a – Plethora of Record Labels

b - Arrival of Deal Diversities

c – Good Deal or Bad Deal?

d - Every Decision Made Matters

d - Good Team in Your Corner

Chapter 19

The Dangling Carrot

a – Your Intellectual Property

b - Protect Your Interests

c - Navigating Mgmt. and Ownership

d - The Art of Negotiation

Chapter 20

Safeguard Your Music Journey

• Who Needs an Attorney?

Chapter 21

Ten Commandments of Protecting Your Music:

An Introduction to the Business

• Intro - Protecting Your Music

• Step 1: How to Protect Your Songs

• Step 2: Where to File Copyrights (U.S. Only)

• Step 3: Performance Rights Organizations

• Step 4: Keep Track of Your Music

• Step 5: Hire an Entertainment Attorney

• Step 6: Studio Recording

• Step 7: Ledger of Your Expenses

• Step 8: Forming Business Entities

• Step 9: No Strangers in The Studio

• Step 10: Sync Licenses Snippets

Chapter 22

Wisdom to Navigate the Industry

• Map Your Course Accordingly

Chapter 23

Glossary

• 123 Definitions + One VIP

Chapter 24

The Author

Chapter 3

Dedication

This book is a tribute to my family, the pillars of love and strength in my life, both those who are still with me and those who have moved on. Their support has been my anchor through the stormy seas of life that I have weathered. Every word I’ve penned in these pages is a testament to the undying love I hold for them, a love that has enabled me to survive and share my story.

This book is more than just a dedication; it’s a heartfelt thank you, a love letter to my family, for being my safe haven, and a source of inspiration. It’s a celebration of the bond we share, a bond that has been the driving force behind my ability to live every word, write every sentence on every page, and still stand strong today. I will always love you, all of you, forever and a day!

In the spirit of transparency, I feel compelled to discuss a sensitive aspect of life’s journey. When you form your own family, you may encounter moments of discord. Even the most cherished family members might sometimes treat you in ways that are less than ideal. This is a truth I’ve personally experienced. It can be deeply hurtful, but there’s an inherent bond within families that paves the way for forgiveness.

The reasons for such behavior can be elusive, but it’s a part of life we gradually learn to navigate. Being a husband, a father, grandfather, and great grandfather is a role steeped in responsibility, obligation, and an immense amount of love. It demands resilience and patience, even when faced with challenging circumstances.

In these moments, you have a choice. You can choose to retreat, or you can choose to stand tall, uphold your family, and remember that beyond the disagreements lies a love that is irreplaceable.

My enduring love for my entire family and, my faith is what keeps me grounded. These are absolutely necessary traits regardless of what is transpiring. Please remember, that forgiveness is not just an act, but a pathway to healing and growth for everyone.

I offer these reflections, drawn from my personal journey, with the hope that they might provide some guidance to those navigating similar challenges. It’s important to remember that every family faces its own set of trials, but it’s your faith, the collective love and unity amongst family members, that empowers us to conquer them all.

Most importantly for me, it’s my faith in God - in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I make these statements. This alone, is my source of strength that provides my ability to persevere, sustain, keep my family together, and accomplish whatever I set out to do. Regardless of the obstacles I am faced with, whether I win or lose, I embrace both willingly. I tell you this, in the end, God has always taken care of me, and those I love and pray for.

As a humbled and grateful man, I make no claims to be above anyone else. I have successes, and make mistakes just like anyone else. Though rest assured, I will remain a steadfast pillar of strength for my family, standing by them with unwavering love, push forward and always go above and beyond for them, until my final day on this earth. From my heart, I dedicate my survival of my journey thus far, to those who have been closest to me since the beginning.

1) My business partner, my friend, my wife, the mother of our children, and a superwoman! Denise L. Kessler p/k/a Rainy Davis

2) My all grown up children: Deshia, Jasmine, Herbie, Marcy, and Kayshawn.

3) My young grandchildren- Marianny, Lailah, Jorrel, Aaliyah, and Davey.

4) My great grandchildren - Jahziah, Lexington.

5) Dorothy Nana Kessler (my grandmother) - Her strength endured into her nineties, and the love she gave was without conditions. I miss you, Nana. Rest with Blessings.

6) Herbert Kessler (my dad) – My Dad could have ran, but instead he gave up his life for my sister and me. – I miss my Dad, Rest with Blessings.

7) Al and Stella Davis (my father and mother-in-law) – The best in-laws a man could ever wish for. - Rest with Blessings.

8) Melvin Ragin p/k/a Wah Wah Watson (my big brother figure who was always there for me musically & personally) Rest with Blessings.

Chapter 4

Acknowledgments

As I travel the winding path of my life, continuously immersing myself in the vibrant yet unpredictable worlds of entertainment, business and technology, I recall a chorus of voices along the way, that have doubted my choices, and turned away. Yet others chose to stand with me, without even a shadow of doubt, providing their unwavering support through to this day.

My journey stretches back to the innocence of my pre-teen years, leading me to this moment, as I sit here at the appreciated and wonderful age of sixty-six. Yet, as I pen these words to you, I feel the youthful spirit coursing through my veins. It’s the spirit that has driven my inspiration and motivation to make my dreams my reality in the same manner they have with anything I’ve become part of since my childhood.

Why do I implore this method? I present to you two compelling reasons. Firstly, I have set sail on an exhilarating new voyage - the creation of my book. This is not just any ordinary book, but a book that encapsulates a fragment of my soul, a legacy designed to persist long after I have left this world. It’s a memoir I’ve crafted for family, friends, acquaintances, and future generations, allowing them to clearly understand my life’s journey through the written word. This book is more than a collection of pages; it’s a window into my heart, a testament to my existence for those who wish to understand my journey.

Secondly, I’m blessed with a plethora of experiences accumulated since my early teenage years. This journey that I’ve embarked on has deepened my understanding of the three domains that I’ve delved into and unveiled in my book. Even today, in the depths of my heart, I still resonate with the spirit of the twenty-five-year-old I once was, brimming with the same anticipation and enthusiasm. It’s as if time has stood still, preserving that youthful zest and curiosity within me."

I will never say goodbye to the child in me! It’s that spirit and mindset providing the source of fuel that propels my confidence with that no-fear-go get it attitude, to pursue anything I put my mind to. And, it’s coupled with an attribute that instills an unwavering persistency - a ‘can’t stop’ mentality until I accomplish that goal. What’s ironic is all of us possess it and most of us let it go for their own reasons. But, clearly understand it is totally separate from our maturity module. That has its own natural, self-explanatory functions.

Life presents us with two paths: (A) a predictable job until retirement (referred to as the safety zone), or (B) the daring pursuit of dreams and aspirations, a path filled with risks and rewards. I chose the latter, not as a recommendation to anyone, but as my personal choice. Regardless of the path chosen, strive for greatness. As a dreamer since kindergarten, I proudly carry this title to this day.

If I were to assign a value to my journey, it would be priceless. In addition to the mountains, I’ve had to climb, the experience, the knowledge, the awards, nomination, and certifications, are accolades I’ve earned, serving as enduring markers of my life’s journey.

This is my highlight reel, my truth, and I stand by it without hesitation. The individuals I’ve mentioned below hold a special place in my heart, and I am profoundly grateful for their presence in my life.

1. Dorothy Nana Kessler was not just my grandmother, but also my greatest supporter. Nana was a unique individual, universally loved by everyone who knew her. Not a single soul had anything negative to say about Nana! She embodied the true meaning of a best friend.

It was Dorothy Nana Kessler, who was the real executive producer of the song ‘Sweetheart’. Upon hearing us work on it in her living room, she expressed her admiration for the song. Then, she surprised us by offering her Social Security check, which she received on the first of the month, to fund the studio recording of ‘Sweetheart’. This act of selfless love not only enabled us to record the song at a critical juncture, but also set the stage for its serendipitous discovery by Mariah.

In the business of entertainment, as in life, timing is everything. Had the circumstances been different, the entire schematic would have changed. The players would have been different, the locations would have been different, and Mariah would not have heard the song at the exact moment she did as she was coming up in the industry.

But Nana did much more than this. From day one, she supported my dreams in both music and education. Her influence and support have been invaluable in my journey. She was, and always will be, the real executive producer of Sweetheart, but more importantly, the executive producer of all things that are good, instilled in my heart that I carry inside forever.

2. Allen Davis