Music Publicist Career Profile, Salary & Job Outlook
What does a Music Publicist do?
Music Publicists (PR Reps) work with musicians to secure media coverage. They may work for a record label or a publicity firm. PR Reps contact journalists and editors to pitch ideas for their client. Pitches can range from interviews and in-depth features to social media mentions and small blurbs in blogs.
How much does a Music Publicist make?
According to Ziprecruiter, Music Publicists make a national average of $46,866 or $22.53 an hour (as of May 2022). In general, entry-level music publicists make around $26,500 annually, with senior-level music publicists making $70,000 a year. This wide range also depends on skill, seniority, company, and location.
What impact does this career have towards the music industry?
Music publicists help artists gain media coverage. They get the word out about new releases and important news. Publicists coordinate interviews and essays with editors and journalists.
What is the job outlook for a Music Publicist?
Analysts forecast that music revenue will more than double to about $131 billion by 2030. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities in public relations specialists (including music publicists) are expected to grow at a rate of 11% during the 2020-2030 decade.
How to kick-off your career:
- Join a street team for your favorite artist.
- Explore the Clive Davis Institute at NYU x Billboard’s Music Industry Essentials online course.
- Download Yellowbrick’s Ultimate Music Career Guide.

Learn from:
Tiffany Hardin
CEO & Founder at Gild Creative Group, Music Industry Essentials contributor
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