Songwriter: Career Advice for Recent Graduates
For those who have a passion for music and an aptitude for creating lyrics, becoming a songwriter may be the dream career. As a songwriter, you have the opportunity to express yourself creatively and potentially earn a living doing what you love. However, building a career in songwriting can be challenging, especially for recent graduates. Here are some tips and guidance to help make your journey to becoming a successful songwriter a little easier.
Introduction to the Career
Being a songwriter involves creating original lyrics and melodies for songs that are performed by artists in various genres, such as pop, rock, country, and hip-hop. Songwriters collaborate with musicians and producers to create music that connects with audiences and inspires emotions. Songwriters work for themselves, music publishers, record labels, or work as freelancers.
Career Values, Traits, and Skills
To excel in songwriting, you should have a combination of creativity, imagination, and strong writing skills. Your ability to use language and storytelling techniques is essential in creating lyrics that people can relate to. You should be willing to accept constructive criticism and be committed to working hard to hone your craft. Successful songwriters also possess an entrepreneurial spirit and are willing to hustle to get their music heard by music publishers, producers, and artists.
Career Path
Starting a career path in songwriting can be challenging as there isn’t a specific educational path or degree required for this career. However, pursuing a music-related degree or program from a community college or university can provide valuable knowledge and connections to launch your career.
Networking with music industry professionals is key when starting your career as a songwriter. Attending industry events, collaborating with other artists and songwriters, and building relationships with music publishers, record labels, and producers can help you establish credibility and potentially earn opportunities.
Salary Range
There is no set salary range for songwriters. Their income depends on factors such as the frequency of their compositions, their popularity, whether their songs are used in movies, TV, or video games, and how successful their music is. The average salary for songwriters can range between $20,000 – $101,000 per year, with songwriters of the highest caliber earning millions of dollars annually.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to help you build a successful career as a songwriter:
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Focus on creating unique lyrics and melodies that connect with audiences.
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Collaborate with other songwriters, producers and musicians to get better at your craft.
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Attend industry events, network with professionals and establish relationships.
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Establish relationships with music publishers to get your music out into the world.
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Be willing to take a job as a music journalist or critic to give you experience in the industry and provide you with invaluable connections.
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Take personal finance classes to learn how to manage your money and revenue as a self-employed profession.
References
- Songwriters Association of Canada – [https://www.songwriters.ca/]
- Berklee School of Music – [https://www.berklee.edu/careers/career-paths/songwriter]
- ASCAP – [https://www.ascap.com/help/royalties-and-payment/survey-and-distribution]
