LIFE

Do you dream of performing in front of a sold-out stadium crowd—with everyone chanting your name? Or maybe you'd rather pen the hit songs in private (the next "Drivers License", perhaps?). Whether you want to be the next T-Swift or own your own record label, it's never too early to start preparing for a career in music. If you're wondering how to *actually* begin a career in the music industry, we have some tips for you.

If you want to be in the spotlight...

If the limelight is calling your name, there are some steps you can take now to improve your chances of becoming a famous singer.

Practice your craft.

The most successful musicians spend multiple hours per day practicing. Take voice lessons or teach yourself how to play guitar. Set aside time each day to dedicate to music or songwriting. Like the tried-and-true saying, practice really does make perfect.

Get yourself out there.

The first step to getting discovered as a musician is putting yourself out there. Search for local restaurants with open-mic nights or community events where you can perform. If you can't find many opportunities right now, start uploading videos to YouTube. You never know who might stumble upon your videos.

Take trips to Nashville or L.A.

If you're serious about being a famous singer, you may need to take some trips to Nashville or L.A. to network and explore opportunities. Most record labels are based in these cities, and many famous artists get their start there. Before you go, investigate potential open-mic nights and make a list of record companies that accept unsolicited demo tapes.

Start building up your social media following.

The more people that can listen to your music, the better! Create a digital presence for yourself. Maybe you'll make a website or Soundcloud with excerpts of your songs. Or you can upload content to Instagram Reels or TikTok if videos are more your thing. No matter the method, building up a solid following on social media is essential to eventually getting your music out into the world.

If you'd rather work behind-the-scenes...

Center stage not the place for you? No problem. Check out these other music-related careers that are *just* as cool and valuable.

Music business

Ever wanted to work for a record label? A career in music business might be for you. Many universities even offer a music business major. You'll learn about the ins and outs of business (like accounting, marketing and law) as it relates to the music industry. You could end up working in music publishing, radio or concert promotion—just to name a few.

Audio engineering

If you have a knack for mixing and mastering music, you may want to investigate jobs in this field. As an audio engineer, you can record and edit music for artists or design sound systems for concerts.

Artist management

Artist managers help musicians book gigs, tours and promo events. They also help coordinate album releases and marketing strategies. 

Music therapist

Looking for a music career that's focused on helping those in need? Music therapists provide music-based solutions for children, adults or elders with mental or physical disabilities. They work in hospitals, schools and residential treatment facilities.

If you're a musician, we'd love to hear your songs! Tag us in your music on social media @girlslifemag.

Top image: instagram.com/taylorswift

All GIFs via Giphy

by Kathleen O'Neill | 2/6/2021