Pursuing a career in the music industry is a dream shared by many passionate individuals. However, genuinely finding one’s footing in such a dynamic environment has proven elusive for many. While there’s no shortage of resources, from articles to courses claiming the secrets to success, too many merely scratch the surface or over-complicate the journey.
It’s important to realize that the music industry isn’t straightforward like other fields, such as medicine or real estate. Its dynamic nature means there’s no single route to success, but this also offers countless avenues for keen and creative people. The strategy? Study the pathways others have taken, identify what resonates, and customize that knowledge to your strengths and vision.
To help steer you in the right direction, we’ve distilled insights that have benefited the entire team here at Magnetic. While these guidelines are broad by design, they’re meant to inspire you to mold them into strategies that reflect your unique perspective and goals in the music scene.
ASK QUESTIONS AND FIND YOUR ROUTE
The music industry is vast, with countless roles available. A&R, Content Creation, Events Management, Studio Operations, Sound Engineering—the list is extensive. Despite your chosen path, the initial challenges remain consistent. This industry relies heavily on connections, passion, and relentless drive. While it often appears glamorous and romantic, it’s not, and those who dig deep into its realities before jumping in full-time will be all the better for it. Moreover, for those familiar with its intricacies from the onset, there are numerous opportunities to find a niche.
So, how do you begin?
Start by asking questions—a lot of them.
If you’re in college aiming for a music industry job post-graduation, attend campus lectures and listen to guest speakers. Engage with online masterclasses, especially those with Q&A sessions. Find locations where knowledgeable people frequent and pose your queries, and avoid blowhards and upstarts like the plague (the initial stages of many careers in the industry are often full of the blind leading the blind, as goes the metaphor).
It’s vital to recognize that there’s no singular route to penetrate the music industry. It’s diverse, and everyone discovers what suits them best. Thus, seek insights from diverse individuals. After absorbing various perspectives, you’ll discern how to find your place in the industry, leading us to the next pivotal aspect…
FIND YOUR LEVERAGE
Look in the mirror and ask, “what do I bring to the table?”
Connections are crucial in the music industry, but it’s about more than acquaintances. Everyone, from artists to label managers, needs to bridge gaps. Whether an artist requires a professional EPK, a label seeks more Spotify streams, or an agent seeks press coverage for their visa-seeking acts—it all boils down to networking AND facilitation.
Your ability to provide such connections might be the key. Much of this is achievable independently and without any real foot in the door at all, provided you’re resourceful and observant.
For artists aiming to collaborate with more prominent names, consider organizing local shows and booking those artists. All artists need compensation, so hosting events can expand your network as you scratch the backs of established acts you love while fostering a local community in one fell swoop. Writing for websites and blogs aids more prominent artists as all seek press coverage and can get your name on the radars of artists and PR firms. While such roles might be unpaid, they often provide access to pivotal industry events and significant figures. Creating playlists is another method to gain industry leverage. Many artists and labels aim to increase their streams, making curated playlists valuable assets that can easily earn you a seat at the table in their own right.
The music industry offers endless opportunities for those willing to think outside the box. You’re likely to receive mutual support and career-defining contacts by aiding those advanced in their careers.
START SMALL
While big labels and renowned companies are enticing, smaller, independent organizations often provide genuine opportunities. Here, your unique skills and passion can truly flourish. With fewer team members, your contributions are more noticeable, enabling varied experiences.
Moreover, don’t deem your favorite artists or businesses unapproachable. Many artists and industry personalities now manage their labels and have side projects/businesses requiring a diverse team. Surprisingly, a direct message or consistent follow-ups might yield fruitful connections. This approach led me to manage a small organic house label.