So You Want to Be a Rock and Roll Star?

Abstract

There aren’t many “one man bands” anymore. There is a physical limit—two hands, two feet, one mouth—that makes it difficult to play more than two or three instruments at a time. It also requires skill in playing multiple instruments simultaneously [91]. However, the drawback of a multiple member band is that the band members must cooperate to produce the sound and also decide how to divide up any income earned. The music produced by a band is of necessity a joint product. The reason music is produced by a duet, trio, quartet or orchestra is presumably because you cannot get the same music output without the combination of instruments and performers. The problem of remuneration for each member is also an important aspect of a band. Since the singer cannot perform the song unless someone also plays drums or guitar, most rock groups have begun with a reward structure that compensates every member with an equal share of the band’s income. This is where the trouble begins in keeping a group together. Though each is necessary to produce the sound, some members may view themselves as more necessary than others. If good drummers are hard to find, then drummers will have to receive a greater share of the band’s revenue. If it is the lead singer who provides the unique sound of the band, he or she will have to be given additional compensation in some manner.