Designed to be ever more addictive, the songs of Katy Perry or Rihanna are based on the art of a handful of unknown producers. Who are these artisans of world hits? How do they work? What are their specifications? Their "stuff"? From New York to Los Angeles, from Stockholm to Seoul, a reporter for the New Yorker investigates those who make rain and shine on the charts, and writes the story of a musical form that has become universal language. The songs of Britney Spears, Rihanna or Katy Perry are based on the expertise of a handful of relatively unknown producers and entrepreneurs, who respond to the names of Denniz PoP, Dr. Luke, Max Martin or Stargate. Who are these artisans of world hits? How do they work? What are their specifications? With this lively and richly documented investigation, John Seabrook plunges us into the heart of recording studios, where manufacturing takes place -; and is essential -; the standard for pop music. His analysis of planetary tubes combines ethnographic approach, musical know-how, life stories and market analysis. Multiplying the points of view, Hits! Survey of the Factory of Planetary Tubes is an exceptional document for reflection on current popular music.