music industry 

Jobs within the music industry. 

A&R assistant:

Job description:

-A&R assistants supports the administrative tasks for a record label or music publishing company's artist and repertoire division. Some responsibilities of an A&R assistant include: event coordination i.e A&R meetings; internship hiring; Artist liaison, acting as a liaison between the label and artist; and review demons.

-A&R assistants are responsible for talent scouting and overseeing the artist development of recording artist and songwriters. A&R assistants tend to be the frontline of the music industry, overseeing writers/producers within the company while signing new repertories to the company

Salary:

-A&R can earn royalties from the artist they sign, usually percentage points. The average salary for A&R is £25k yearly but can vary depending on the label you start with.

Qualifications:

-Many executives working in A&R don't have qualifications in music, however, courses such as  uni degree in music, music business/management, college- music course, or an apprenticeship within a record label or publishers would be helpful. 

songwriter:

job description:

-songwriters have the task of writing song, which are pieces including lyrics, melody, and instruments (digital or physical). They can work in a variety of ways such as freelance, which means to work directly wit artist; agency, working for an agency means to writes songs for multiple artist; staff writer, to work for a music publisher; and finally, self publishing to serve as their own music publisher. 

-Songwriters are music creators who write songs, or known as a lyricist (if they mainly write song lyrics). Song writing is often a task spread among multiple people.

Salary:

-the average salary for a songwriter in the uk is around £30k a year, with a base pay range of £22k-42k. 

-songwriters can also earn money from royalties for their songs. This varies depending of the type of royalty and the platforms such as radio, which songwriters can earn u to 80 pounds per play; streaming, Spotify pays around £0.006 per stream; mechanical royalties, SW can earn up to 9.1 cents per sale; finally, performance royalties, sw can earn royalties from a performance rights organisation when their songs are played live in public.

Music lawyer:

job description:

-Music lawyers or also known as entertainment lawyers, handle the legal issues that arise in the music industry. They can deal with a number of factors such as, Contracts, music lawyers can prepare agreements for artists, investors, and other parties and advise on contract management/ negotiations. Intellectual property, they can help copyright protection, trademark disputes, and other intellectual property rights. Licensing agreements, advise on live events and many more. 

Salary:

-The average salary for a music lawyer in the uk is between £40k-£100k per a year, but this can vary depending on their experience and client base.

Qualifications:

There isn't a specific degree required to become a music lawyer in the UK, but you can take courses that can help you gain the skill and knowledge you need. However, you would need a law degree and to bass the bar exam. Otherwise, it is recommended to gain work experience through an apprenticeship or other ways.

Copywriter assistant:

Job description:

A copywriter assistant ensures that works/agreements are being registered correctly at collection societies, dealing with claims for publishing agreements. Within this role you most likely will be dealing with processing royalties, registering new works and analysing the royalties received to make sure they are paid correctly and within the contractually agreed timescale to writers. You will also look to resolve counterclaims where there is uncertainty around the ownership of a work.

Salary:

The salary for a copywriter can vary depending on experience, size of agency, and location. For a junior copywriter starting salary is usually between £20k-£25k per a year. Middleweight copywriter(3 or more years of experience) salary tend to fall between £25k-£50k a year. Senior copywriter(10-15 years of experience) salary tends to be up to £90k a year. Finally, creative directors who have won awards for their campaigns can earn up to £120k a year.

Qualifications:

You will need a degree in music or an analytical subject (non-essential) or study these subject at school/college. You can also look for an apprenticeship within a music publishing company

Music industries:

Record labels-

warner music group

sony music entertainment

universal music group

Motown 

independent vs major 

U.K is the 3rd largest music market in the world 

Recording Industry:

The recorded music industry is the part of the music industry that creates, releases, and distributes recorded music. It also manages and monetises the copyrights for sound recordings.

How it works: Recod labels work with artist to create, release, and market their music. They also own or control the copyright for the recording and pay the artist royalties. Digital service providers provide music to customers, such as through streaming services like spotify, apple music, and amazon music. Artist create the music, and may also release it directly on platforms like bandcamp and soundcloud.

In 2023, the global recorded music industry's revenue increased by 10.2% to $28.6 billion. Streaming accounted for 2/3rds of the global revenue in 2023. The UK recorded music market grew by 8.1% in 2023, with streaming making up nearly 86% of the revenue. 

Some big known recorded labels are Atlantic records, EMI Records, Sony BMG, Universal music group, and Warner music group. 

EMI Records is a British multinational record label owned by Universal music group. It was originally founded as a British flagship label by the music company EMI in 1972, and launched in January 1973 as the successor to its Columbia and parlophone record labels. The label was later launched worldwide. EMI Records has signed artists such as Taylor Swift, Paul McCartney, NE-YO, Johnny Cash, Metallica, Rihanna, Bon Jovi and many more. EMI Records is one of the most defining labels in popular music. They have a diverse background of artist and genres being the home to some of the greatest/ most popular artist. 

EMI Records is an example of a major label chain. However, there are independent labels which is a small-to medium-sized business that operates independently of major records labels, tending to focus on more niche markets and emerging artist. An example of an independent label would be XL Records. Artist that have worked with label are people such as, Fontaines D.C, Radiohead, and Joy Orbison. 

Music Education:

Music education is the study of music and the teaching of music to others. It is a field of practise which educators are trained for careers as primary, secondary, college etc. music teachers, schools, or music conservatory ensemble directors. Music education is also a research area in which scholars do original research on ways of teaching and learning music and the history behind music. In Europe, children in primary schools are often taught to play instruments such as keyboards. In primary and secondary schools, children are often given an opportunity to purse a music interest, through music lessons(curriculum) and after school clubs, such as school bands, choir, or orchestra. Going into college, there are opportunities to do a music course, such as musical theatre, A-level music, B-tech music, or UAL diploma in performance or production. Opportunities will present themselves all through education into university, allowing anyone to take a music course in any aspect. 

music education is not just vital to ensuring the industry remains one of the powerhouses of the UK economy, it is also crucial to the mental health and wellbeing of our children and young people, as well as their neurodevelopment. 

Some professional organisations are Music Teachers National Association, National Association for Music Education, etc. 

Music Distribution: How to Spread Your Own Music

Music distribution is the process of getting your music to listeners through digital platforms, physical formats, or direct engagement. In the past, distribution meant getting records, CDs, or tapes into stores. Today, digital distribution dominates, allowing artists to reach a global audience instantly. Here’s an overview of the main ways to distribute and promote your music.

1. Digital Music Distribution

Most modern artists rely on digital distribution services to get their music onto streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. These services act as intermediaries, handling licensing and ensuring artists get paid.

Popular Digital Distribution Platforms:

• DistroKid – Fast distribution, unlimited uploads for a yearly fee.

• TuneCore – Charges per release but allows artists to keep 100% of royalties.

• CD Baby – Offers digital and physical distribution with a one-time fee per release.

• LANDR – AI-based distribution with extra features for mastering.

• Amuse – Free distribution with optional paid upgrades.

• UnitedMasters – Connects independent artists with brands and sync opportunities.

These platforms help artists make their music available on streaming services while also providing analytics, royalty collection, and promotional tools.

2. Physical Distribution

Although digital dominates, some artists still distribute music physically. Vinyl records, CDs, and even cassette tapes have niche audiences.

Ways to Distribute Physical Music:

• Sell through Bandcamp or personal websites.

• Partner with independent record stores.

• Sell at live shows and concerts.

• Use print-on-demand services for vinyl or CDs.

3. Direct-to-Fan Distribution

Some artists prefer to control their music distribution without intermediaries. Direct-to-fan platforms allow artists to sell music, merch, and experiences directly to their audience.

Popular Direct-to-Fan Platforms:

• Bandcamp – Allows artists to sell music and merchandise directly to fans with flexible pricing.

• SoundCloud – Offers monetization and direct distribution.

• Audiomack – A growing platform that supports free music uploads and discovery.

• Patreon – Lets artists offer exclusive content to subscribers.

4. Social Media & Video Platforms

Social media plays a key role in modern music distribution. Many artists break through by sharing clips, teasers, or full songs on platforms like:

• TikTok – Viral music trends can boost song streams.

• YouTube – Essential for music videos, lyric videos, and visual content.

• Instagram & Facebook – Short-form video content and Stories drive engagement.

• X (Twitter) – Helps with direct engagement and networking.

• Twitch & Discord – Live streaming and fan interaction.

5. Playlisting & Streaming Strategies

Getting music onto popular playlists can significantly boost streams and audience reach.

Ways to Get on Playlists:

• Submit to Spotify’s editorial playlists via Spotify for Artists.

• Use SubmitHub to pitch to independent playlist curators.

• Network with independent curators on platforms like Soundplate.

• Encourage fans to add songs to personal playlists.

6. Sync Licensing & Alternative Revenue Streams

Music doesn’t just have to be streamed or sold. Artists can earn money through sync licensing (music in TV, film, video games, and commercials).

Where to License Music:

• Songtradr – Marketplace for licensing.

• Pond5 – Stock music for videos and ads.

• Epidemic Sound – Subscription-based music licensing.

• Artlist – Used by filmmakers and content creators.

Final Thoughts

There are more ways than ever to distribute and promote music independently. Whether through streaming services, direct sales, social media, or sync licensing, artists have the tools to build a career on their own terms. The key is to experiment, stay consistent, and engage with your audience.

How to Market a Single (Song) Successfully

Releasing a single is a great way to build momentum as an artist, whether you're introducing a new project or maintaining engagement with your audience. A well-planned release strategy can maximise streams, attract new fans, and boost visibility. Here’s a step-by-step guide to marketing your song effectively.

1. Plan Your Release Date & Distribution

Set a Release Date

• Choose a date at least 4-6 weeks in advance to allow enough time for promotion.

• Consider Fridays for release, as it's the industry standard for new music drops.

Distribute Your Song

Use a digital distribution platform (like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby) to ensure your song appears on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and other streaming services.

2. Create a Pre-Release Strategy

Pre-Save Links

• Use Spotify for Artists or DistroKid's HyperFollow to create a pre-save link so fans can automatically add your song to their library upon release.

Social Media Teasers

• Post short snippets of your song on Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.

• Use behind-the-scenes content (studio footage, lyric breakdowns, or your creative process).

• Encourage engagement by asking fans to guess the lyrics or meaning of the song.

Email & SMS List

• If you have a fanbase, send an email or SMS alert before the song drops.

Press & Blog Outreach

• Pitch your song to music blogs, local radio stations, and online publications (SubmitHub, Indie Shuffle, etc.).

Engage Influencers & TikTok Creators

• Reach out to micro-influencers (10k-100k followers) and TikTok dancers or meme pages to use your song in videos.

3. Release Day Strategy

Announce the Drop Everywhere

• Post on all social platforms (Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, Reddit).

• Update your Spotify Canvas (looping video) and YouTube Premiere for maximum exposure.

Engage Your Fans

• Go live on Instagram, TikTok, or Twitch to celebrate the release.

• Encourage fans to share the song in their stories and playlists.

• Reply to every comment and reshare fan posts to boost engagement.

4. Post-Release Marketing

Submit to Playlists

• Use Spotify for Artists to pitch to editorial playlists.

• Submit to independent curators via SubmitHub, Soundplate, and PlaylistPush.

Create More Social Content

• Share lyric videos, live acoustic versions, or remix challenges.

• Encourage user-generated content (fans using your song in their TikTok videos).

• Run a contest (e.g., best dance video or lip-sync challenge wins a prize).

Run Targeted Ads

• Use Instagram & TikTok ads to drive streams and profile visits.

• Focus on countries where your genre performs well to get the best cost-per-click.

Leverage Collaborations & Remixes

• Partner with DJs, remixers, or other artists to create alternate versions.

• Release an acoustic, slowed, or sped-up version of your song for more engagement.

Final Tips for Success

 Be consistent – Don’t stop marketing after release day; keep momentum going.
  Engage with fans – Reply to every comment and message to build a loyal audience.
  Monitor analytics – Use Spotify for Artists and YouTube Analytics to track performance.
Experiment – If something works (e.g., TikTok challenges, playlisting, ads), double down on it.

Career Plan:

Producer:

A record/music producer manages the recording and production of music for artist. To become a music producer, I can gain practical experience, develop my skills etc. To develop my skills I can learn technical skills by becoming comftable with how a studio works, and being able to use digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Logic pro. I can learn mixing such as how to blend the elements of a song to create a balanced mix. I am currently learning most of these skills in my UAL course in college during my studio sessions on Friday morning. To gain experience I can create my own music such as tracks to develop my sound and tech skills, I can collaborate with others on small projects to expand my portfolio

 I can start with gaining a music qualification and then either go to university and carry on a music course, or get an apprenticeship in a studio, or work my way up in the industry. 

Skills I would need to become a successful producer:

Skills I would need are things such as technical skills, creative vision, strong leadership, and the ability to manage projects effectively. I would also need to take into account skills such as time management, budgeting and networking.

Technical skills I'll need are factors such as understanding of media production- knowledge of the production process, pre-production to post, is crucial. Software proficiency- competence in relevant software packages and digital tools is essential. and many more. 

Creative skills I would need are: creativity and vision- the ability to develop ideas, concepts, and bringing them to life. Problem solving- needing to be able to identify and resolve challenges that arises during production. And adaptability- The ability the be flexible and adjust to changing circumstances and unexpected issues.

Leadership and management skills I'll need are: clear sense of communication for coordinating with a team and conveying ideas clearly. Organisation skills to manage projects, schedules, and budgets. Leadership to be able to motivate a guide a team to achieve a common goal. And decision making, to make timley and effective decisions under pressure.

I'd want to carry onto my second year of my UAL diploma and complete the course, then take a gap year to travel to different countries, then I would like to go to UNI in Brighton or Cardiff and carry on with music. After that, I might look into opportunities to work in a studio.

A successful producers that inspires me is Quincy Jones, and max martin.

max martin- Backstreet boys, NSYNC, the Weeknd, Britney spears, Celine Dion, Kelly Clarkson, Robyn, P!nk, Katy Perry, Usher, Ke$ha, GLEE, Conan gray. 

 Above is a list of the famous people Max Martin worked with, growing up my Mum and Sister loved backstreet boys so they were played very frequently. I like the work Martin did on Backstreet boys album especially 'Quit playing games(with my heart)'. I also love his work with the Weeknd since the Weeknd is one of my favourite artist, specailly the song 'in your eyes remix with Doja cat that Martin helped produced .