The Guidebook for Self-Releasing Your Music is a must-have resource for anyone looking to release their music–equally valuable for first timers as well as for seasoned experts who want the latest information on technology and industry developments. Matthew Whiteside focuses on the areas that musicians can manage themselves, and highlights–with humour and encouragement–the potential benefits and pitfalls along the way.


“A roadmap offering clear and actionable advice for artists starting out on a path of bringing music to the world. The author, a musician himself, demystifies the process, covering aspects such as recording techniques, the streaming landscape, understanding royalties, and carrying out effective promotional campaigns.”

–Matt Butler, Producer/Sound Engineer



“A one-stop guide to support a musician of any genre, at any stage of their career, in recording and releasing their music from start to finish…Conservatoire education never touched on half of the topics covered in ‘The Guidebook to Self-Releasing Your Music’.”

–Iona Fyfe, Folksinger

“An essential resource for anyone who wants their music to be heard. The author’s expertise and passion for empowering others shines through every chapter…A wealth of information on every stage of the self-releasing journey, supplemented by links to resources on the author’s website. The analysis of the issues surrounding streaming royalties are as clear-eyed, intelligent, and honest as any discussion of this topic I have seen.”

–Stuart MacRae, Composer



“A comprehensive guide…written in a warm, knowledgeable way that speaks from experience. The author covers the importance of creating a ‘brand’ from both an artistic and business perspective– something that few creatives have a grip on.”

– Scanner / Robin Rimbaud, Electronic Musician


The 18 chapters cover:

Chapter 1 – How to use this book
Chapter 2 – Choosing the best people
Chapter 3 – Budgeting
Chapter 4 – Funding and Earned Income
Chapter 5 – Choosing the best place to record
Chapter 6 – Preparing for the recording session
Chapter 7 – Postproduction
Chapter 8 – Understanding your rights
Chapter 9 – Registrations, licences, and codes
Chapter 10 – Choosing a distributor
Chapter 11 – Design, branding, and printing
Chapter 12 – Public relations
Chapter 13 – Marketing and advertising
Chapter 14 – Using social media to promote your music
Chapter 15 – Synchronisation

Industry Thoughts
Chapter 16 – The ethics of streaming
Chapter 17 – The Long Tail
Chapter 18 – Record companies as investors and royalty-earners