If you're passionate about music, you may be wondering what the best career paths are for you. Luckily, there are many high paying music jobs available!
In this blog post, we will discuss 10 of the most popular music careers and how to get started in them. So whether you're a singer, songwriter, or producer, there's sure to be a career path for you!
These are in no particular order and you will find careers in all of these fields could pay on the higher end or lower end as it depends entirely on the experience, clientele, and popularity of the artist.
1. Professional Singer/Musician
If you're a singer, the sky is the limit when it comes to earnings. The most successful singers can make millions of dollars per year! But even if you're not one of the top earners, there are still many opportunities for singers to make a good living.
To get started as a singer, you'll need to develop your vocal skills and learn how to perform. You may also need to take some music classes or participate in a choir. Once you've developed your skills, you can start auditioning for singing gigs.
2. Writer
If you're a songwriter, you can make a very good living by writing songs for other artists. Many songwriters make hundreds of thousands of dollars per year!
To get started as a songwriter, you'll need to develop your writing skills and learn how to craft a catchy song. You may also need to take some music classes or participate in a songwriting group.
Once you've developed your skills, you can start pitching your songs to artists and record labels.
3. Producer
If you're a producer, you can make a very good living by producing records for other artists. Many producers make hundreds of thousands of dollars per year!
To get started as a producer, you'll need to develop your production skills and learn how to use music production software. While you do not need any specific degrees to become a music producer, you may also want to take some courses or shadow an experienced producer.
Shadowing an experienced producer is one of the best ways to start a career in music from an early age.
We have written a post all about starting a career as a music producer which has a step-by-step guide.
You can also learn all about the many ways to make money as a music producer.
4. A&R
A&R (artist and repertoire) is the process of finding and developing new artists. A&R reps earn a good salary by signing and developing new talent.
To get your career started in A&R, you'll likely need to have a mix of music industry experience and business acumen. It's also important to be well-connected in the music community.
Some ways to gain experience in A&R include interning or working at a record label, talent agency, publishing company, or management firm. You can also start your own independent label or work as a consultant for artists and managers.
Networking is key, so attend music industry events and meet as many people as you can. Be sure to showcase your skills and knowledge by writing articles or producing podcasts about the music industry.
5. Music Manager
A music manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of an artist's career. Music managers typically earn a percentage of an artist's earnings (usually around 15%).
The job of a music manager is very demanding and requires a high level of experience in the music industry. To get started, intern or work at a record label, talent agency, or management firm. You can also start your own independent label or work as a consultant for artists and managers.
As with A&R, networking is key, so attend music industry events and meet as many people as you can.
You can check out our list of music internships and programs to help direct you to the right path for becoming a manager.
6. Sound Engineer
A sound engineer is responsible for operating and maintaining audio equipment. Sound engineers typically work in recording studios, live venues, or post-production facilities.
To get started as a sound engineer, you'll need to learn about audio equipment and how to use it. You may also want to take some courses or earn a degree in audio engineering.
Once you have the necessary skills and experience, you can start applying for jobs.
Many sound engineers earn a yearly salary of $60,000-$70,000.
7. Music Therapist
Not the typical job that comes to mind when thinking about music careers, but music therapists use music to help people with physical, emotional, and mental health issues.
Music therapists typically have a degree in music therapy from an accredited program. Once you have your degree, you can become certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).
After you're certified, you can start working with patients in hospitals, nursing homes, or private practices.
Music therapists earn a median salary of $47,860 per year.
8. Record Label Executive
Record execs are responsible for signing and managing artists, as well as overseeing the production and release of albums.
To become a record label executive, you'll need to have a lot of experience in the music industry. Start by working your way up the ladder at a record label or music management company.
This is a long-term goal after many years in the industry, and execs typically earn a six-figure salary.
Study the career trajectory of some record executives of major labels such as
- Sony Music Entertainment
- Universal Music Group
- Warner Music Group.
You'll need to have a high level of industry knowledge and be able to spot new trends to be successful in this role.
9. Events Manager/Concert Promoter
For the outgoing music lover, a career as an events manager or concert promoter might be the perfect fit.
As an events manager, you'll be responsible for planning and organizing concerts and other music events. This includes booking venues, hiring staff, and promoting the event.
To get started, you can volunteer to help with local shows or festivals. You can also intern at a music venue or concert promoter.
With experience, you can start working as an events manager or concert promoter. Promoters typically earn a commission of ticket sales, so your income will be based on the success of the event.
10. Music Journalist
A music journalist typically covers the music industry for news outlets, magazines, or websites. They may interview artists, produce features on new releases or live shows, review albums, and more.
To start a career in music journalism, it helps to have a background in writing and knowledge of the music industry. Many journalists start out as interns or contributing writers for small publications before landing full-time gigs. It's also important to build a strong portfolio of work by pitching stories to editors and networking with other professionals in the field.
Alternatively, you can get started on your own using Youtube! Many successful people have started huge careers and brands using social media and taking advantage or the free and organic marketing opportunities social media offers.
Learn all about how you can use social media to market your brand and kick your career off in a way that works for you!
Conclusion
If you're passionate about music and want to make a career out of it, there are many options available to you. These are just a few of the high-paying jobs in the music industry. With the right skills and experience, you can start your dream job in music today!
What are some other high-paying jobs in the music industry? Let us know in the comments below!