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Making it in the Black Music industry: A study of career development and social support among African-American musicians, managers and entrepreneurs

Ferguson, Sheila Alease
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1055776862

Abstract Details

1991, Doctor of Philosophy, Case Western Reserve University, Organizational Behavior.
For generations African-American performing artists have been able to achieve prominence and world wide acclaim. Behind the starring act is a broader culture of Black Music industry professionals that includes; working musicians, corporate managers, entrepreneurs, technicians and other specialists. This study explores the career development, collaborative network systems and social supports leading to success in the careers of performing artists, corporate managers and entrepreneurs. The study was conducted in two phases. Phase one involved a year long exploration into the culture and structure of the Black Music industry. Phase two, involved an interview survey of 44 professionals' career development experiences and relationships of support underlying their success. The interviews examined personal and career histories, perceived ingredients to success, challenges, the meaning of work, visions and affirmations, community contributions and social supports. A second interview was conducted with 56 individuals identified as key supporters of the focal participants. Key findings included: (1) The nature of the industry is fluid and rapidl y changing with many temporary structures lacking in well developed career paths. This industry is more noted for skills in organizing for particular events than in creating stable organizations. (2) Distinct stages of career development can be identified as members develop their art and reputations. (3) Those with university or conservatory training achieve success more quickly and tend to manage more stable professional careers. (4) Familial and relational supports are of great importance both for professional success and for stabilizing otherwise chaotic lives. (5) African-American independent record companies and service firms make a unique contribution to the advancement and preservation of Black Music. Overall, the career development thrusts of the Black music professional fits well with modern career theory. These professionals enjoy multiple careers not unlike professionals in other fields. There is also evidence of a rich interaction between the career progression and the stages of adult development. Finally, the very nature of this industry leads to a variety of entrepreneurial and proactive approaches to career development and maintenance.
Donald Wolfe (Advisor)
506 p.
Black Music industry; career development; social support; African-American musicians; managers; entrepreneurs

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Ferguson, S. A. (1991). Making it in the Black Music industry: A study of career development and social support among African-American musicians, managers and entrepreneurs [Doctoral dissertation, Case Western Reserve University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1055776862

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Ferguson, Sheila. Making it in the Black Music industry: A study of career development and social support among African-American musicians, managers and entrepreneurs. 1991. Case Western Reserve University, Doctoral dissertation. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1055776862.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Ferguson, Sheila. "Making it in the Black Music industry: A study of career development and social support among African-American musicians, managers and entrepreneurs." Doctoral dissertation, Case Western Reserve University, 1991. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1055776862

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

case1055776862
1,234
© 1991, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Case Western Reserve University School of Graduate Studies and OhioLINK.