Der Musikmarkt
Der Musikmarkt
Der Musikmarkt was a prominent music industry magazine based in Munich, Germany, with considerable influence in the German-speaking parts of Europe, including Austria and Switzerland. Established by the publisher Josef Keller Verlag in 1959, it served as a critical resource for tracking and analyzing trends within the music industry. The magazine was often referred to as the "thermometer" of the industry, indicating its pivotal role in gauging the music business's pulse.
Historical Significance
Der Musikmarkt commenced publication at a time when the music industry was undergoing significant transformations. It provided invaluable insights into the popularity of musical acts and was instrumental in determining the official German charts. From its inception until the 1970s, Der Musikmarkt compiled the official German singles charts, a task later taken over by Media Control.
Contributions to the Music Industry
Under the editorship of Uwe Lencher, Der Musikmarkt reached a circulation of nearly 12,000 copies. It became a vital publication for professionals within the entertainment industry looking to keep abreast of music trends in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The magazine featured weekly Top-100 charts for both singles and albums, thereby offering a comprehensive overview of the music scene in German-speaking countries.
Closure and Legacy
In July 2016, both the magazine and its website were closed down. Despite its cessation, Der Musikmarkt's legacy persists as a foundational element of the German music industry's history. Its data and analyses remain a reference point for understanding the evolution of music preferences and industry dynamics in the region.