Very interesting, concise article on one (probably very good) version of how to make it in the music business these days. Basically, it's an open-source business plan that focuses on the key open-source variables:

-Clearly identifying your niche;
-DIY;
-Upsell;
-Viral/guerilla marketing;
-Building a community that supports your work because they like it;
-Iterate often;
-Meet your audience, and
-Be nice.

Could be a page out of David Byrnes playbook. All in all, a pretty good business plan. My musician friends should take a look at this one: http://downtuned.net/2009/07/28/why-jonathan-coulton-is-the-future-of-mu...