Meaning: The quote by Neil Schon, a musician, sheds light on the financial aspect of the music industry, particularly in relation to the earnings from selling CDs. Schon mentions that the group is making close to $10 per CD and considers it a fair amount to split between the five members, resulting in each member making approximately $2 per record. This quote provides insight into the economics of music production and distribution, highlighting the allocation of earnings among band members and the challenges they face in generating income from their music.

In the contemporary music industry, the revenue generated from CD sales has been a significant source of income for artists and bands. However, with the advent of digital streaming platforms and the decline in physical CD sales, the dynamics of earning from music sales have undergone a significant transformation. In the context of Schon's quote, it is essential to understand the various factors that contribute to the revenue generated from CD sales and how it is distributed among the artists and other stakeholders involved in the process.

The statement "We are taking close to $10 a CD the way we are doing it" indicates that the band is able to generate around $10 in revenue from each CD sold through their current distribution and sales channels. This revenue is a result of the retail price of the CD, minus any production, marketing, and distribution costs incurred. It is important to note that the $10 revenue per CD represents the gross income before deducting various expenses associated with music production and distribution.

Schon's mention of this amount being a fair sum to split between the five members of the band reflects the practice of sharing revenue among band members. In many cases, bands and musical groups operate as partnerships, where the earnings from music sales, live performances, and other revenue streams are divided among the members. The equitable distribution of income is crucial for maintaining the collaborative and cohesive nature of the band, ensuring that each member receives a fair share of the financial rewards for their collective efforts.

The specific figure of "each of us makes like two bucks a record" provides a clear insight into the individual earnings of the band members from CD sales. With the total revenue per CD estimated at $10 and five members sharing the earnings, it equates to approximately $2 per member. This distribution of income highlights the reality that the financial rewards from music sales may vary based on the structure of the band, the agreements in place, and the overall success of the music in the market.

In the context of the evolving music industry, it is important to acknowledge that the revenue from CD sales is just one component of an artist's income. With the rise of digital music platforms, streaming services, and online distribution channels, artists have diversified their revenue streams beyond traditional CD sales. Income from merchandise sales, licensing, royalties from streaming platforms, and live performances are now crucial elements of an artist's financial portfolio.

Furthermore, the impact of technological advancements and changes in consumer behavior has significantly influenced the way music is consumed and monetized. The decline in physical CD sales, coupled with the shift towards digital and streaming platforms, has necessitated a reevaluation of how artists and bands generate income from their music. As a result, artists and bands have had to adapt their business models and explore new avenues for revenue generation while navigating the complexities of digital rights management and online distribution.

In conclusion, Neil Schon's quote provides valuable insights into the financial aspects of the music industry, particularly in relation to earnings from CD sales. It underscores the significance of equitable revenue distribution among band members and highlights the evolving nature of music monetization in the modern era. As the music industry continues to undergo transformation, artists and bands are challenged to embrace new strategies for generating income while navigating the complexities of digital distribution and changing consumer preferences.