I get soooo many emails and Twitter messages from people asking how to break into the industry. My response is always “for starters, pick up a copy of The Beginner’s Guide To The Gospel Music Industry by Monica Coates.”
It’s the only book I know of that articulately addresses both the practical AND spiritual issues surrounding one’s involvement in the gospel industry– either as an creative person (i.e., artist, songwriter, producer, etc.) or as an industry executive.
I STRONGLY urge you to check it out, especially if you feel in any way called to labor in the gospel industry. I credit THIS book as one of the things God used to lead me to start GospelPundit.com almost a year ago. It’s a great read with tons of info and it’s already making big waves, with rave reviews, in the gospel marketplace.
I’ll be interviewing the author, industry vet Monica Coates, reeaally soon for you guys. In the meantime, check out the promo video below and visit her website, http://www.monicacoates.com, for more info.
Does anybody here already HAVE the book? Anyone planning to purchase it?
Just ordered my copy!!
I have the book. It is a great read and very upfront. For all the people that are very cautious about purchasing this book, Monica Coates did a lot of the promotion, marketing, A&R, etc for these artists (Fred Hammond, Dawkins & Dawkins, Joann Rosario (it's a very long list that is filled with many artists that we love). The book challenges you in ways that you might not think about and educates you on the business of Music.
I said I wasn't going to comment on this book until I completed reading it but... it's the BEST book I've read about the music industry! It's the only book I've been aware of that refers specifically to the Gospel music industry, business, and ministry. I am a recording industry student with hopes of becoming a sound/audio engineer, but this book has inspired me to stick with what I feel are my real gifts and talents and possibly work in PR. So another major change will be in order! lol This book is insightful, honest, forward, and encouraging. It's written in such a conversational, mentor - mentee tone. It's as if I can hear Monica talking directly to me. I've had to read a few pages a day, a chapter at a time because a lot of information is presented and it's all necessary for the aspiring to know. I am so excited and thankful that this book was written, I wish it had been on my text book list! However, I'm glad I purchased my copy before I got too deep into my education! Thank you, Monica Coates. D.G.
I purchased this book a month ago and couldn't put it down, even though I've been in the industry for over 2 years now she opened my eyes to so many new things. I even emailed her saying how great it was and she responded, now that's something you don't get from someone at her level!
Transitioning from a gospel announcer to working in marketing and promotions has been difficult without a road map, however I recently attended a seminar from Lin Woods of Inspired Media and meet Monica Coates. She is amazingly insightful and her lists of accomplishments are highly impressive. Upon reading the book, I had totally redirected my life. Our beginnings are so similiar it was scary. I've been reading CD covers since cassette tapes. Now I know some of the people that are in them, I'm even found in a few CD covers from St. Louis artists. But with her information I can take all of that and go even further. Be a servant first, is my new motto. Thanks Monica....and thank you EJ for recommending the book. The book is God inspired and business savvy. If your in the industry and don't have this book, you can't be doing much. BUY THE BOOK!