HOW TO WORK FOR YOUR FAVORITE BAND
posted in: Music News
Are you the first person in line at your favorite band’s shows? Do you enter every contest and promotion they run? Do you fall asleep listening to their music? Do you reference the members on a first name basis, even though you’ve never met? Chances are you’re a superfan. And there may be a job in it for you.
Most people currently working in the music industry are (a) musicians or (b) fans. They ended up in the biz either for the networking opportunities, the chance to work closely with amazing talent, or some combination of the two. If you can relate, you may want to seriously consider a career in music. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- There is a difference between a superfan and a crazed fan. If you don’t think you can muffle a scream when you see a famous rock star, this probably isn’t the job for you. Groupies, teenyboppers and stalkers do not pass GO. Music industry folks are enthusiastic, of course, but they’re levelheaded and business-minded first and foremost.
- Know what you want your job to be. Is communication your forte? Consider going into PR. Do you love writing? Look into music journalism. Do you want to put together incredible shows? Check out booking agencies. Are you mostly interested in representing bands in every aspect of the business? Maybe you’re management material. Do your research beforehand so that you end up on a career path that will make you happy.
- Go pro bono. The most effective way to get a job is to first work for free. See if you can get a college internship at your favorite management company, music label, radio station or PR agency then wow them with your skills. Join the street team and kick some ass. Another tactic is to build up a name for yourself by starting a really great fansite, music blog or the like. If you’re a graphic artist, build up your portfolio by doing some posters or album covers for some of your friend’s bands. It’s not uncommon for music labels and managers to look to fans for support roles in the business, such as creating cool skins for social networking profiles, updating the news section of artist sites and designing promotional materials.
- Make friends in the industry. This old adage is true ” it’s all about who you know. So go to as many events as your calendar can handle ” record releases, showcases, listening parties, meet-and-greets, etc. Network like it’s your job ” one day it may be.
