Authors: Steffan Thomas
Citation
Thomas, S. (2019). Mutually Beneficial Publisher and Artist Regulated Distribution Model for the Niche Music Industry. Journal of Creative Industries and Cultural Studies–JOCIS, 3 (1), 32–45.
https://doi.org/10.56140/JOCIS-v3-2
Abstract
Copyright and intellectual protection cannot always answer the requirements for a niche independent or minority language music publisher or artist. This paper assesses the challenges faced within the independent niche and minority language music market, and seeks to establish a model which could generate a sustainable digital income and reap remuneration for creativity. Using Varian’s (2005) fourteen business model categorisations as a framework, four types of business model solutions are considered: a price based model; a control model; a bundled model; and finally an enhanced content and relationship model. This paper concludes with a conceptual model which could be mutually beneficial for publishers and consumers of niche music. The niche, independent or minority language artists or publishers will be referred to as micro or SME companies (Small-to-Medium sized Enterprises) within this paper. Micro and SME’s as a classification, rather than independent publishers, limits the scope of the proposed model’s application to companies with a staff of fewer than 25 and a turnover below £10million. These are companies with limited resources to invest in researching and developing a digital distribution strategy.
Keywords
Niche Music Industry, Mutually Beneficial, Alternative Model, Enhanced Engagement.