Independent News Publication of artistpro Media Daily Global Reporting for the Music Products Industry Since 1879 Publisher of Musical Merchandise Review

1879

About MMR

The oldest continuously published music trade magazine, serving the industry for over 145 years.

Our Story

Musical Merchandise Review is an independent news publication of artistpro, LLC and has been the authoritative voice of the music products industry since 1879. In 2026, MMRmagazine.com celebrates 30 years online. For more than 145 years, we've chronicled the evolution of musical instruments from the gaslight era to the digital age, documenting every major innovation, trend, and transformation along the way.

Founded in New York City during the height of the American industrial revolution, MMR began as a simple trade circular for piano dealers. Today, we're a comprehensive media platform serving manufacturers, distributors, and retailers across every category of musical instruments and pro audio equipment.

145+
Years in Publication
14,194
Newsletter Subscribers
15,233
Published Articles Online
30
Years Online

Our Heritage

1879

Founded in New York City as a trade publication for piano and organ dealers during America's Gilded Age.

1920s

Expanded coverage to include the emerging phonograph and radio industries, documenting the birth of recorded music retail.

1950s

Embraced the electric guitar revolution, chronicling the rise of Fender, Gibson, and the rock 'n' roll era.

1980s

Covered the synthesizer boom and digital revolution, from MIDI to the first digital workstations.

2000s

Launched digital edition and website, adapting to the internet age while maintaining print excellence.

Today

Multi-platform media company delivering news, analysis, and insights across print, digital, email, and events.

Our Mission

MMR exists to inform, connect, and empower the music products industry. We believe that access to reliable information and industry intelligence helps businesses make better decisions, and better businesses mean more people making music.

Our editorial team combines decades of industry experience with a commitment to independent, objective journalism. We don't just report the news—we analyze trends, investigate challenges, and celebrate the innovations that keep music alive.

Editorial Accountability

MMR is published by artistpro, LLC. Mike Lawson is publisher. Editorial standards, corrections, ownership and funding disclosures are maintained in our newsroom standards. Sources, researchers and industry experts can work directly with the MMR Editorial Desk.

Contact Us

Get in Touch

Have a story tip, press release, or advertising inquiry? We'd love to hear from you.

editorial@mmrmag.com
artistpro, LLC
7012 City Center Way, Suite 207
Fairview, TN 37062