Careers in the Music Industry Artist

Also known as: Featured Artist, Recording Artist, Touring Artist, Singer-Songwriter, Artist-Producer

If you’re dreaming of becoming an artist and building a sustainable career in the music industry, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.

In this blog post, we explain what an artist is, what they do, the skills you’ll need, who you’ll work with, and how the career path actually works in the real world. You’ll also learn what life looks like day-to-day, how artists make money, and how to get started – whether you want to perform, write, produce, or release your own music. 

An artist is someone who creates, records and performs music. This could be a solo singer, rapper, instrumentalist, DJ or a band.

Artists might write their own songs, perform live, record music in a studio, and share their work online. Some are signed to record labels, while many work independently and manage their own careers. 

Being an artist isn’t just about performing, it often involves writing, recording, rehearsing, promoting your music, planning releases, and building an audience. Many artists also design their own visuals, run social media accounts, and book their own gigs.  

When it comes to careers in the music industry, artists are at the heart of it. They’re the ones making the music that connects with people, setting trends, and bringing live shows to life. 

Whether they’re playing to thousands or releasing tracks from a bedroom studio, artists contribute to the ongoing evolution of music through creativity, entrepreneurship, and self-expression. 

As one of the most visible careers in the music industry, the artist role is unique because…

Creative Freedom
Artists use music to express who they are and share their personal stories. 

In the Spotlight
They often connect directly with fans through live shows and social media. 

Wearing Many Hats
The role can include writing songs, performing, building a brand, and promoting their work. 

Your Image Matters
Success often depends on having a clear identity that reflects who you are. It’s not necessarily about creating a persona, but more about being intentional, consistent, and authentic in how you present yourself. 

Team Players
Artists usually work closely with producers, songwriters, managers, and others. 

Multiple Paths
There’s no one-size-fits-all route to becoming an artist. Some work independently, others sign to labels, many do a bit of both throughout their career.

Always Evolving
Artists need to stay creative while keeping up with trends, technology, and changes in the industry.

Like many other careers in the music industry, the responsibilities of an artist can vary widely. Early in their career, many artists are hands-on with every aspect (writing, recording, promoting, and gigging) often juggling creative and administrative tasks themselves. As they grow, they may build a team around them to handle certain areas, allowing more focus on the creative side. 

Artists signed to a label might have in-house teams supporting areas like promotion, planning, and logistics. Independent artists, meanwhile, often manage these aspects themselves or with a small group of trusted collaborators. 

Typical responsibilities include:

Creating music – Writing songs and crafting their artistic sound. 

Rehearsing and performing – Preparing for and delivering live shows, honing stage presence and performance skills. 

Recording and producing – Working in studios or home setups to produce and release music. 

Promoting work – Using social media, interviews, playlists, and online media to grow and engage an audience. 

Managing a career – Overseeing bookings, budgeting, contracts, and long-term planning (particularly for DIY or independent artists). 

Collaborating – Working with producers, co-writers, other musicians, and content producers to develop projects. 

Staying current – Keeping up with industry trends, technology, and evolving fan expectations.

Collaboration is a constant throughout an artist’s career, and like many careers in the music industry, who you work with can change as you progress.

In the early stages, you might be doing everything yourself or working with a close-knit group of peers (producers, co-writers, or friends who help you bring your ideas to life). Many artists start by recording at home or a local studio, booking their own gigs, and managing their own socials and branding. 

As your career grows, your network expands. You might collaborate with freelance creatives like photographers, PR specialists, and booking agents, or build your own team. Getting a manager on board or signing with a label can also give you access to professionals like A&Rs, marketing teams, and legal advisors. 

Being open to working with others and knowing how to navigate these relationships is crucial. And throughout it all, your connection with your audience remains central.

Artists work in a wide range of places, from recording studios and live venues to home setups and rehearsal rooms. Many early-career artists do everything from a single space – writing, recording, promoting, and creating content from their bedroom or home set-up.

As your career develops, you may tour, collaborate in professional studios, or work with teams across multiple locations.

There’s no one “right” setup, it all depends on your goals, resources, and working style.

In terms of employment format and getting paid, most artists are self-employed, building their own brand and income streams through live performance, streaming, merchandise, sync deals, and more.

There’s no typical day for an artist.

Some weeks are filled with writing, rehearsals, and studio time. Others revolve around performing, content creation, or handling admin like bookings and promotion.

There isn’t one set way to become an artist. In fact, the first step is often as simple (and powerful) as deciding to call yourself an artist and start putting your work out into the world. Whether that means releasing a track, sharing your music online, or booking your first gig, the journey often begins with action and self-belief. 

Studying a music course can help you sharpen your skills in areas like songwriting, performance, production, and music business, while also giving you access to expert guidance and a community of collaborators. 

Education also helps with one of the most important parts of building a career in music: your network. Many opportunities in the industry come through relationships, and being surrounded by peers, mentors, and professionals can be a game-changer.

At WaterBear, we understand that every artist’s journey is unique. That’s why we offer flexible, career-focused courses designed to support your individual goals, whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your existing career. 

Our BA (Hons) Professional Music degree courses specialising in Performance, Songwriting, Production, Electronic Music and Business are available on-site in Brighton and Sheffield, alongside a range of online courses, allowing you to study in a way that suits your lifestyle. These courses are built around your music, your career, and your projects, ensuring that you gain both creative and practical skills. 

Beyond the classroom, WaterBear provides 1-1 mentoring with industry professionals, helping you navigate the music landscape and develop a tailored career plan. You’ll also have access to exclusive masterclasses, networking events, work experience and performance opportunities, connecting you with a community of like-minded artists and industry insiders. 

Ready to take the next step in your music career? Explore our courses, book an open day, or download our prospectus to learn more.

Explore these other related careers in the music industry: 

• Composer / Songwriter 

• Music Producer 

• Session Musician / Vocalist 

• Cover Band / Performer 

• Content Creator