Meaning: The quote "This is a business built on promotion. We've been giving music away to radio stations for 30 years." by Hilary Rosen, a prominent businessman in the music industry, encapsulates the essence of the music business and the crucial role that promotion plays in its success. This quote sheds light on the long-standing practice of providing music to radio stations for promotional purposes, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the music industry and radio as a means of promoting music to a wider audience.

Hilary Rosen is a well-known figure in the music industry, having served as the chairman and CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) from 1998 to 2003. During her tenure, she played a significant role in shaping the industry's response to digital music distribution and copyright issues. As a seasoned professional in the music business, Rosen's insights into the industry's promotional strategies are invaluable.

The statement "This is a business built on promotion" emphasizes the fundamental role of promotion in the music industry. Promotion is the process of raising awareness and generating interest in a product or service, and in the context of the music business, it involves marketing and publicizing musical works to attract listeners and consumers. From emerging artists seeking to gain exposure to established acts aiming to maintain their relevance, promotion is a constant and essential aspect of the industry.

Rosen's mention of giving music away to radio stations for 30 years underscores the enduring practice of using radio as a platform for music promotion. Radio has long been a staple in music promotion, serving as a primary means of reaching audiences and driving record sales. By providing music to radio stations, artists and record labels aim to secure airplay and exposure, leveraging the station's reach and influence to connect with listeners.

Moreover, the quote reflects the symbiotic relationship between the music industry and radio. While radio stations benefit from receiving new and popular music to attract and retain audiences, the music industry relies on radio as a crucial promotional channel. This mutually beneficial arrangement has persisted for decades, demonstrating the enduring significance of radio in music promotion.

Rosen's assertion also speaks to the evolving nature of music promotion. While traditional methods such as radio airplay remain important, technological advancements and the rise of digital platforms have expanded the promotional landscape. In today's music industry, artists and labels harness a variety of tools and strategies, including social media, streaming services, and influencer marketing, to promote their music to a global audience.

In conclusion, Hilary Rosen's quote encapsulates the enduring importance of promotion in the music business and the longstanding practice of providing music to radio stations for promotional purposes. It underscores the symbiotic relationship between the music industry and radio, emphasizing the pivotal role of radio in music promotion. As the industry continues to evolve, the quote serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of promotional strategies and the ongoing quest to connect artists and their music with audiences worldwide.