Evaluating the Economic Impact of the Music Industry of the Nashville, Tennessee Metropolitan Statistical Area

Patrick Raines
Belmont University

LaTanya Brown
Bowie State University

Abstract

Past economic studies have shown a link between a region’s investment into entertainment industries and its economy’s relative strength. For example, as entertainment industries foster environments conducive for productive human capital, areas with these strong entertainment industries begin to produce businesses that thrive; this cycle leads to an increase in general employment and revenue. According to an analysis of early 2000s’ U.S. Census data and surveys inquiring upon consumers’ earning-spending habits, the greater Nashville area is no different. Be it music sales or music tourism related, for every dollar the music industry invests into Nashville, its economy experiences up to a 216% return. Therefore, it is clear that Nashville’s musical foundation is at least partially responsible for the metropolis’ economic strength.

Keywords: economic impact, music industry, entertainment industry, Nashville, music sales, tourism, arts presenting

Raines, Patrick, and LaTanya Brown. “Evaluating the Economic Impact of the Music Industry of the Nashville, Tennessee Metropolitan Statistical Area.” Journal of the Music and Entertainment Industry Educators Association 7, no. 1 (2007): 13-37. https://doi.org/10.25101/7.1

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