Book Recommendations

Welcome to my book recommendations for creative people, independent music artists, and producers! Here you'll find a carefully curated selection of books that will inspire, inform, and help you grow in your creative pursuits.

For Creative People

  1. “The Creative Act: A Way of Being” by Rick Rubin -for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the creative process. Drawing on his extensive experience as a music producer and cultural icon, Rubin offers a unique perspective on the inner workings of creativity and how to harness it to achieve your goals. From cultivating a mindset of curiosity and exploration to embracing vulnerability and uncertainty, this book offers invaluable insights into the creative process that can help you unlock your full potential. Whether you're a musician, artist, writer, or simply someone looking to tap into their creativity, "The Creative Act: A Way of Being" is a powerful guide to living a more inspired and fulfilling life.

  2. “Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative” by Austin Kleon - a must-read for anyone looking to tap into their creative potential. With witty insights and practical advice, Kleon offers a refreshing perspective on the creative process, encouraging readers to borrow from others' ideas and make them their own. From embracing limitations to cultivating a creative community, this book offers actionable tips for overcoming creative blocks and unlocking your full creative potential. Whether you're an artist, writer, musician, or simply looking to inject more creativity into your life, "Steal Like an Artist" is the perfect read to spark your imagination and inspire you to create your best work.

  3. “Make Your Art No Matter What: Moving Beyond Creative Hurdles” By Beth Pickens - With compassion and practical guidance, Pickens helps readers navigate the internal and external obstacles that can prevent them from making their best work. From overcoming fear and self-doubt to finding the time and resources to create, this book offers actionable strategies and exercises to help creatives move beyond their hurdles and create the art they were meant to make. Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned pro, "Make Your Art No Matter What" is a valuable resource for anyone looking to break through creative blocks and make their mark on the world.

  4. "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron - This book is a classic guide to creative recovery and inspiration. It offers a twelve-week program to help you connect with your creative self and overcome creative blocks.

  5. “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert - In this book, Elizabeth Gilbert explores the idea of creativity as a magical and mysterious force. She encourages readers to embrace their curiosity, pursue their passions, and live a creative life.

  6. "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield - This book is a must-read for anyone struggling with procrastination, self-doubt, or resistance in their creative work. Pressfield offers practical advice for overcoming these obstacles and getting your work done.

For Independent Music Artists and Producers:

  1. "How to Make It in the New Music Business" by Ari Herstand - This book is a comprehensive guide to navigating the modern music industry. Herstand covers everything from building a fanbase to booking gigs to earning money from your music.

  2. "The Mixing Engineer's Handbook" by Bobby Owsinski - If you're an independent music producer or engineer, this book is an invaluable resource. Owsinski covers all the technical aspects of mixing music, as well as offering advice on communication and client management.

  3. "All You Need to Know About the Music Business" by Donald S. Passman - This book is a classic reference guide to the music industry. Passman covers everything from contracts to copyright to touring, and offers practical advice for anyone working in music.

  4. “Get More Fans: The DIY Guide to The New Music Business” by Jesse Cannon and Todd Thomas -This book is a nitty gritty guide of strategies and perspectives on all aspects of being an independent music artist in the modern age. This is a great resource if you are a self-starter type of person who wants to have a good understanding of all the aspects of the Music Business to have a successful career.