What Happens in the Music Business

Because we all need to laugh at ourselves...
This is the music industry.
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    Anonymous asked: please tell us: what we would need to study to be in the music business, where we would work, and what we should know?

    This is a very large question, so I’ve divided it into manageable parts and answered based on my own opinion.

    1) What you need to study: Having a degree in a related field is always a good thing - but it can’t replace real life experience, it can only help you obtain it. Meaning, use your major to get you an interview or an internship. But realistically, what will get you hired is the experience you have via internships, university activities etc. So, in terms of your course of study, it’s fairly simple. If you’re interested in working in a marketing department, study marketing. If you’re interested in working in an art department, study art. If you’re interested in PR, study PR. If you’re interested in digital, study computer science. There are also all encompassing majors such as Music Business or Entertainment Business (which is great for someone looking to work in artist management). Here’s an easy rule: Use your common sense. You know what you want. 

    - Where you would work: It’s not my intention to be harsh, but I can’t answer this. You decide what’s the best fit for you. Determine your passion and find a job that fulfills that. Internships are a great opportunity to try different things. But if you’re not in school or you can’t immediately find a job in the major music industry, try smaller local companies or related fields such as film or television. You can also look into a job in the right department of a the wrong industry (for example: advertising for a medical company). Advertising is advertising and having experience will make you a better applicant in the future.

    - What you should know: Working in the music business is great if you love music. You have to have real passion and commitment. Tough skin, perseverance and excitement will get you far. But remember, it’s a business, so be ready to work. 

    Anyone else have some advice they’d like to share with the newbies?

    1. whathappensinthemusicbiz posted this