Meaning: This quote from Jackson Browne sheds light on a pivotal moment in the history of the music business, particularly in relation to the concept of music publishing. In order to fully understand the significance of his words, it's important to delve into the historical context of the music industry and the impact of influential artists like the Beatles.

During the mid-20th century, the music business operated under a system where songwriters and composers often relinquished their publishing rights to music publishers in exchange for financial compensation. This meant that the individuals who actually created the music often did not retain ownership of their work, and subsequently, did not have control over how it was used or distributed. This arrangement had been the norm for many years, and it resulted in songwriters missing out on potential long-term earnings and creative autonomy.

However, as Jackson Browne alludes to, the landscape of music publishing began to shift during the era of the Beatles and other influential artists. The Beatles were instrumental in challenging this traditional model by taking control of their own publishing rights. This move was revolutionary because it allowed the band members to retain ownership of their songs and benefit financially from their continued use and popularity. The impact of this decision by the Beatles reverberated throughout the music industry, inspiring other artists to follow suit and assert their rights as creators.

Browne's reference to the division of money for music written in equal halves also speaks to the changing dynamics within the music business at the time. Traditionally, songwriting royalties were typically split equally between the composer and the lyricist, regardless of the actual contribution each made to the song. This practice was commonplace and often overlooked the nuances of creative input and effort from each party involved in the songwriting process. However, the shift in ownership and control of publishing rights brought about a reevaluation of how songwriting royalties were apportioned, leading to a more equitable distribution of earnings based on individual contributions.

The impact of the Beatles and their contemporaries in redefining music publishing and ownership cannot be overstated. Their actions set a precedent for artists to take charge of their creative output and financial futures. As a result, the concept of music publishing evolved to become more artist-centric, with a greater emphasis on creators retaining ownership of their work and reaping the rewards of their artistic endeavors. This shift empowered songwriters and composers to assert their rights and influence the terms of their agreements with publishers and record labels.

In conclusion, Jackson Browne's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative influence of artists like the Beatles on the music industry. Their pioneering efforts to claim ownership of their publishing rights sparked a paradigm shift that continues to shape the landscape of music publishing today. By breaking free from the traditional model and advocating for fair compensation and control over their creations, artists have paved the way for a more equitable and artist-friendly music business.