The music industry is larger and more diverse than ever, offering thousands of jobs across creative, technical, and corporate fields. Whether you’re just starting out, a recent graduate, or an experienced professional looking to transition into music, there’s a role that fits every skill set—from management and marketing to law, education, and entrepreneurship. Here’s a complete guide to careers, degrees, and opportunities across the global music business.
Music Business Careers and Jobs
The modern music business covers far more than performing. Entry-level jobs include assistant roles in labels, publishing companies, talent agencies, and recording studios, where you can learn contract negotiation, marketing, and artist relations. Graduate jobs often focus on analytics, social media strategy, or tour coordination. Senior and executive positions—like label manager, artist manager, or A&R executive—require a mix of creative judgment and business skill.
Other music business careers include entertainment lawyer, publisher, lecturer, recruiter, producer, or company owner. You’ll find music industry vacancies in major cities such as Nashville, Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, and London, with many companies now offering remote jobs and internships for flexibility and global collaboration.
Music Business Degrees and Programs
Education plays a key role in preparing for these careers. You can study for a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in Music Business, Music Management, or Entertainment Industry Studies at universities worldwide. Online degrees and MBAs in music management are available for flexible learning, including options in the UK, US, and Canada.
Programs like Belmont University’s Music Business degree, Berklee’s online bachelor’s, or USC’s Thornton School MBA integrate marketing, copyright, finance, and entrepreneurship to build real-world readiness.
Top Music Business Schools and Universities
Some of the most respected schools include Berklee College of Music, Berklee Online, Belmont University, BIMM, Full Sail University, NYU, UCLA, MTSU, Vanderbilt, and USC. In the UK and Europe, strong programs are offered at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, Edinburgh College, and TAFE in Australia.
In Canada, schools like Humber College and NSCC are known for music management and production programs. Each school combines business education with hands-on industry access through internships, networking events, and partnerships with major record labels.
Music Business Courses and Certificates
Short-term music business courses, diplomas, and certificates are ideal for working professionals or newcomers seeking focused training. Platforms like Berklee Online, Coursera, and Udemy offer online courses in publishing, royalties, and music law.
For in-person training, look for summer schools, academies, or conference certificates such as the UGA Music Business Certificate Program. Many schools now provide free online courses to help artists and entrepreneurs learn licensing, branding, and revenue management.
Music Business Books and Guides
For self-study, there are excellent music business handbooks and guides covering every aspect of the industry. Recommended titles include All You Need to Know About the Music Business by Donald Passman, Music Marketing for the DIY Musician by Bobby Borg, and the Music Business Handbook and Career Guide (12th Edition).
These books explain contracts, royalties, and modern distribution in plain terms. Regularly reading industry blogs, publications, and newsletters helps you stay updated on trends and job openings.
Music Business Media and Podcasts
Podcasts and online media are valuable learning tools. Popular shows like Music Business Worldwide, The Music Industry Podcast, and DIY Musician Podcast feature executives, producers, and independent artists sharing real-world insights.
Online communities such as Reddit’s r/MusicIndustry, TikTok creators, and LinkedIn groups can also help musicians find jobs, collaborations, and mentorship. Many podcasts and newsletters now highlight worldwide music business news, career opportunities, and remote job listings, making it easier to stay connected to the global industry.
Music Business Salaries and Careers Explained
Salaries in the music business vary by role, experience, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $30,000 to $40,000, while mid-level professionals such as marketing managers or tour coordinators earn between $50,000 and $80,000. Senior executives, lawyers, and top managers often exceed six figures, especially in major hubs like Los Angeles, Nashville, London, and New York.
With remote roles now common, global collaboration is easier than ever. Success in this industry depends less on formal education and more on networking, adaptability, and real-world experience—turning creativity and persistence into a lasting, rewarding career.
