Sound Beginnings

The decade 1924--34 was a tumultuous one which moved from prosperity to bankruptcy with dizzying speed. It was also the most significant decade in the history of the Australian recording industry. The legacy of these years is still felt in musical culture today. This book gives a rare insight into the culture, ethics and business interests of the time as it charts the pioneers of this industry, who, be they British, American or Independent Australian, were characterised by ingenuity, enterprise and self-interest. From the beginning, the record industry was a world-wide phenomenon, creating global fashions and international board minutes, press releases, reviews and frank, often self-serving, correspondence of many of the major players gives a significant insight into the naive beginnings of one of the biggest industries in the world.