Breaking into the music industry isn’t easy, especially when you have limited experience. If you’re just starting out, you may not have a clear idea of what may be best suited for you or how to apply your skillset — making the perfect music job can feel out of reach. However, these jobs can be the stepping stones on the pathway to the career of your dreams.
Demo Singer
When most people think of a singer, the front and center person often comes to mind — the star. However, there are many different roles singers can fill when it comes to recording popular music and stage performance. One of the most unique is a demo singer. A demo is an early recording a songwriter makes that is not intended to be released. A songwriter may use a demo as a reference track as they work on the song. They may also submit it to an A&R representative in hopes of having their music recorded by an artist. Demos are also given to publishers to establish copyrights. In these instances, songwriters may enlist a singer to help provide an impression of the song’s sound once it’s completed.
Why work as a demo singer:
Working as a demo singer provides an opportunity to network and meet songwriters. If you’re interested in recording, it’s a chance to work in a recording studio.
Crew (Road/Tour)
If you love live music, you may consider hitting the road. Touring musicians rely on crew members — sometimes called roadies — to handle all of the logistical elements of live performance. For example, the crew can be responsible for loading equipment into venues from vans or buses, setting up the equipment and breaking it down at the end of the show, programming stage lighting, sound engineering, and much more. Depending on the artists’ experience and needs, the crew may also take on administrative tasks like scheduling and personnel management.
Why become part of the road or touring crew:
If you’re a live music enthusiast who enjoys traveling, a career as a crew member is a great way to learn the technical aspects of music.
Music Journalist
Journalists write about many subjects, and some specialize in music and the entertainment industry. Music journalists cover various topics. Types of writing can include artist profiles and interviews, album and concert reviews, and music business news such as chart reporting. Setting out on a career path in writing can be as simple as starting a blog or interning at a publication.
Why become a music journalist or editor:
Music journalism can combine the best of both worlds if you love talking about your favorite artists and have a knack for words.
Instrument/Studio Technician
During a recording session, artists may use live instruments. An instrument technician sets up and maintains instruments. They are an essential part of the recording process and music production as they also preserve technical equipment such as computers, headphones, and microphones to ensure that producers are getting the highest quality of audio to work with. Instrument techs should have some working knowledge of instruments and the general process of recording engineering.
Why become a studio technician:
This is an alternative career path for someone who wants to work with instruments but may not be interested in working as a musician. A degree in music technology or broadcasting may be required for this music job.
Street Team Member
In grassroots marketing, a street team is composed of fans of a specific band or artist. Street teams are usually put together by a recording label, artist manager, or musician for promotion. Street teams are crucial if an artist has a limited marketing budget or is unsigned. Members get the word out about their favorite artists by flyering for live shows and new music releases. They also hand out promotional merchandise, post on social media, and call radio stations to request songs. Street team members are typically unpaid or receive a meager salary but often get perks like free tickets and merchandise.
Why become a street team member:
Being a street team member can be a good start if you’re interested in marketing, branding, or concert promotion.
If you’re interested in any of the music jobs above or exploring which of the many other music career paths may be right for you, check out Yellowbrick’s Ultimate Music Career Guide.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from industry experts and take your music career to new heights. Check out our Music Industry Essentials Course and enroll today.
Also, feel free to check out all our courses to take the first step towards achieving your goals in the career of your dreams!
