How to Build a Career in Music Journalism

Want to turn your passion for music into a career? Music journalism is about storytelling, industry insight, and finding the right beat. Here’s how to start.

---

Loving music is easy. Writing about it in a way that gets people to actually care? That’s the hard part. Music journalists don’t just report on the industry; they help define its history, capture cultural shifts, and introduce the world to what’s next.

But let’s be honest—getting into music journalism isn’t as simple as picking up a press pass and calling it a day. With legendary outlets like Rolling Stone evolving and platforms like TikTok reshaping how we discover new artists, the role of music journalists is shifting fast. The old-school career path may be fading, but new opportunities are popping up in unexpected places.

So, how do you turn a love of music into a career that actually pays? Let’s break it down.

What makes music journalism different from other types of journalism?

Music journalism isn’t just about reporting facts—it’s about translating sound into words, making readers feel an album, and occasionally surviving an interview with a rockstar who gives one-word answers. Unlike hard news reporting, music writing thrives on personal perspective, cultural insight, and the ability to convince readers that a song is either life-changing or absolute garbage.

• Subjectivity vs. objectivity: Music criticism is one of the few places in journalism where your personal taste actually matters. But even the best music writers know how to back up their opinions with sharp analysis, industry knowledge, and an understanding of the broader music scene.

• Access and gatekeeping: Want to land artist interviews? You’ll need to navigate the maze of publicists, record labels, and managers first. Unlike political reporters who can hound sources at press conferences, music journalists have to charm their way past industry gatekeepers.

• The role of opinion: With streaming platforms like Spotify influencing what people hear, critics have to work harder to prove their voices matter. A well-crafted review or thought-provoking music essay can cut through the noise and shape how audiences engage with new music.

• Industry news vs. cultural commentary: Covering music journalism means choosing your lane. Are you breaking news about tour cancellations and contract disputes, or are you crafting in-depth profiles on the artists shaping the music business? Some writers do both—others stick to the storytelling side.

Breaking into music journalism requires more than just a love of music. Whether you’re covering breaking industry news, writing album reviews, or analyzing the cultural impact of a viral song, the key is having a sharp voice, solid reporting skills, and the ability to turn a three-minute song into a compelling story.

What does a music journalist do?

Being a music journalist isn’t just about cranking out album reviews between concert pit stops—it’s a fast-paced, research-heavy job that requires sharp instincts, strong writing chops, and the ability to make deadline while half-deaf from last night’s gig.

Daily workflow

A typical day might include chasing down an artist for an interview, covering a breaking industry story, or analyzing a new trend in hip-hop or indie music. Music journalists split their time between research, writing, and attending live performances—sometimes all in the same day. Tight deadlines are a given, especially when covering album releases or cultural moments that demand immediate coverage.

Music journalism beyond reviews

Sure, writing album reviews is part of the gig, but the best music writers go deeper. That means covering genre shifts, analyzing how artists navigate the music business, and unpacking industry trends like the rise of AI-generated tracks or the impact of TikTok on chart-topping hits. Artist interviews bring another layer to the job, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the creative process.

Freelance vs. full-time

Can you actually land a full-time job as a music editor? Yes, but they’re rare. Most music journalists start as freelancers, pitching articles to outlets and gradually building a portfolio that (hopefully) leads to staff roles at publications, streaming platforms, or entertainment news sites. Many carve out careers by writing for multiple outlets, blending journalism with content writing for record labels, artist bios, and even podcast hosting.

At the end of the day, music journalism is about storytelling—whether that’s unpacking an artist’s rise to fame, exposing shady label deals, or capturing the raw energy of a live show. If you love music and love writing, it might just be the best gig in the world. (Even if your ears never quite recover.)

How to break into music journalism (if you’re new to journalism entirely)

If you’re passionate about music and writing but have zero formal journalism experience, don’t panic—you’re in good company. Many of the best music journalists started as obsessive fans with a knack for putting their thoughts into words.

Do you need a journalism degree? Not necessarily. While a degree in journalism or English can help, it’s not a requirement. Editors care more about writing skills, industry knowledge, and your ability to craft compelling music reviews or interviews. A journalism degree can provide useful training, but hands-on experience is what truly matters.

Essential skills for aspiring music journalists

• Strong knowledge of the music industry, from genre history to industry trends.
• The ability to conduct insightful artist interviews (without asking, “So, what inspired this album?”).
• Research skills—whether that’s digging into an artist’s backstory or understanding music business shifts.
• Social media savvy—networking on Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn can get you noticed by editors.
• A strong writing style that balances music criticism with engaging storytelling.

First steps to getting published

• Write for music blogs—many indie sites welcome new contributors.
• Contribute to school newspapers, college radio stations, or online zines.
• Look for internships at record labels, music magazines, or local media outlets.
• Start your own blog or Substack—having an online portfolio makes it easier to land paid gigs.

Breaking into music journalism isn’t about waiting for permission—it’s about proving you can do the work. Write, publish, and pitch relentlessly. If you can bring fresh, insightful perspectives to the table, the opportunities will follow.

How to transition into music journalism (if you’re already a journalist)

If you’ve built a career in news, culture, or entertainment journalism, stepping into music journalism isn’t about starting over—it’s about refining your focus and adapting your skills to a new beat. The fundamentals of reporting remain the same, but music journalism comes with its own set of challenges and nuances that require a deeper approach.

Move beyond generalist reporting

Many journalists make the mistake of treating music journalism as just another entertainment beat. But covering the music industry requires more than just attending album release parties and writing reviews—it’s about understanding the business, culture, and history behind the music.

• Learn the industry’s inner workings: Follow trends in streaming, copyright laws, and record label politics. Understanding how the music business operates will help you write beyond surface-level coverage.

• Read music criticism widely: Explore writers like Lester Bangs, Ann Powers, or Hanif Abdurraqib to understand how sharp analysis and cultural commentary shape the industry.

• Keep up with evolving genres and scenes: If you’re covering hip-hop, for example, you need to understand its business model, regional influences, and historical context—not just the latest Billboard rankings.

Develop your own writing style

In hard news or investigative journalism, objectivity is key. In music journalism, your voice is just as important as your reporting. The best music journalists balance analysis with personality, creating writing that feels insightful rather than just informative.

• Find your perspective: Are you an industry insider with a deep knowledge of the business? A critic dissecting lyrics and production? A journalist focused on the intersection of music and politics? Your angle matters.

• Avoid lazy music comparisons: Every indie artist is not “the next Bob Dylan,” and not every album is “genre-defying.” Clichés make for forgettable writing.

• Experiment with form: Music journalism isn’t just traditional articles. Podcasts, video essays, and deep-dive newsletters are thriving formats that allow for more creative storytelling.

Master the art of artist interviews

Musicians can be some of the most difficult interview subjects—some are naturally reserved, others are media-trained to the point of dullness, and many have been asked the same tired questions a hundred times. As a journalist, your job is to break through and get real insights.

• Ditch the standard promo questions: “Tell me about your album” will get you a rehearsed answer. Instead, ask about the process, challenges, inspirations, or even unrelated topics that reveal personality.

• Learn how to read the room: Some artists thrive in casual conversations; others prefer structured interviews. Adjust your approach accordingly.

• Navigate publicists strategically: Some will control access tightly. Building relationships with PR teams helps secure interviews with more flexibility.

Find your niche and build authority

Generalist music writing is fading. The strongest journalists today carve out a specialty that makes them indispensable. Some areas to consider:

• Genre expertise: Hip-hop, punk, K-pop, jazz—become a go-to journalist for a specific scene.
• Business and industry analysis: Cover streaming, record deals, and artist royalties with an investigative lens.
• Cultural commentary: Explore how music intersects with politics, fashion, or social movements.
• Long-form storytelling: Deep dives into the history of music labels, influential albums, or overlooked industry figures.

A strong niche helps establish credibility, makes pitching easier, and opens up more opportunities in an increasingly competitive field.

Leverage your existing skills and network

If you’ve spent years as a journalist, you already have valuable assets—editorial experience, research abilities, and industry contacts. The key is repositioning those skills for music publications.

• Use past work as leverage: Even if you haven’t written about music before, strong cultural reporting, profile writing, or investigative pieces can demonstrate your ability to tackle music journalism.

• Network where music writers gather: Conferences like the Future of Music Summit, the Reeperbahn Festival, or SXSW provide opportunities to meet editors and other writers.

• Collaborate with photographers and videographers: Music journalism isn’t just text—strong visuals can enhance your storytelling and broaden your portfolio.

Breaking into music journalism as an experienced journalist isn’t about starting from scratch—it’s about adapting your skills, honing your voice, and finding new ways to tell stories in a rapidly changing industry. The best music journalists aren’t just writing reviews—they’re shaping how we understand and experience music itself.

Can you make a living as a music journalist?

The dream: Getting paid to listen to music, write about it, and interview your favorite artists. The reality? Music journalism is rewarding but rarely a get-rich-quick career.

Freelance vs. full-time: Why staff jobs are rare

Once upon a time, landing a full-time job at Rolling Stone or The New York Times was the ultimate goal. These days, those roles are unicorns—few and far between, and often reserved for industry veterans.

• Most music journalists are freelance. Staff positions at legacy media outlets are shrinking.
• Digital media is volatile. Even established publications like Pitchfork have faced layoffs and restructuring.
• Freelancing offers flexibility. But it also means juggling multiple gigs to create a steady income.

How to diversify your income as a music journalist

Surviving in this industry requires more than just writing for magazines—successful music journalists build multiple revenue streams.

• Write for music publications: Pitching consistently to sites like NME, Billboard, and Consequence still pays the bills.

• Leverage social media: TikTok, X, and Instagram aren’t just for artists—music writers build audiences and credibility there, too.

• Create content beyond articles: Podcasts, newsletters, and YouTube channels give journalists direct access to their readers.

• Brand partnerships and consulting: Many writers advise record labels, streaming services, and music startups.

The reality: Is music journalism a sustainable career?

Let’s be honest—most music journalists don’t make six figures writing album reviews. But those who treat it like a business, diversify their income, and adapt to industry changes can absolutely build a thriving career.

If your goal is stability, freelancing full-time might be tough. But if you’re willing to explore different formats—podcasts, video content, newsletters, or industry consulting—music journalism can be more than just a passion project. It can be a career.

The biggest challenges in music journalism today

Like the music industry itself, music journalism is constantly evolving. Streaming platforms, AI, and the collapse of traditional media have forced journalists to adapt. Here’s what today’s music writers are up against.

• AI and algorithmic discovery: Streaming platforms and AI-driven recommendations are shaping music trends before critics can. Journalists must find fresh ways to add value beyond automated curation.

• The role of the critic: In an industry where playlists matter more than reviews, music writers must go beyond ratings and offer deeper analysis, historical context, and unique perspectives.

• Industry pressure: Publicists hold the keys to artist access, making it tricky to balance honest reporting with maintaining industry relationships.

• The decline of print: Traditional music magazines are folding or downsizing, forcing writers to pivot to digital platforms, newsletters, and independent publishing.

Music journalism isn’t dying—it’s shifting. Writers who embrace these changes and adapt their craft will carve out a place in the industry’s future.

How to get work in music journalism

Breaking into music journalism isn’t just about talent—it’s about getting your work in front of the right people. Editors get flooded with pitches, networking can feel awkward, and landing press access requires strategy. Here’s how to stand out.

• Pitching strategies that work: Your email subject line should be as catchy as a pop hook. Be specific, show why your idea is timely, and prove you know the publication’s style. A weak pitch? “I’d love to write about indie music.” A strong pitch? “How the 2000s blog-rock revival is shaping Gen Z’s indie scene.”

• Networking without being cringe: Social media is your best friend (if you use it well). Engage with editors, share thoughtful takes on new music, and show your expertise. No need to slide into DMs with “Hey, can I write for you?”—let your work do the talking.

• Getting on the press list: Live performances and album previews are key to reporting, but free entry isn’t automatic. Build relationships with PR teams, prove your credibility with published work, and always file solid stories—no one invites a journalist who ghosts on deadlines.

Music journalism is competitive, but persistence pays off. Nail your pitches, build a strong presence, and position yourself as a go-to writer editors want to work with.

The future of music journalism: Where do we go from here?

The industry is changing fast, and the future of music journalism isn’t just in the hands of legacy publications—it’s in the hands of independent writers, evolving technology, and shifting global perspectives.

• The rise of independent voices: As traditional music magazines shrink, bloggers, podcasters, and Substack writers are filling the gap. Many are building loyal audiences without relying on major media outlets, proving that a strong voice and deep music knowledge can be just as powerful as a big byline. Writers with solid music history expertise and sharp writing experience have more opportunities than ever to carve out their own space.

• Music journalism in the age of AI: What happens when algorithms start generating album reviews? AI tools can summarize press releases, but they can’t replace the cultural insight, historical knowledge, and lived experience that human writers bring. (At least, not yet.) For those looking to get into music journalism, understanding how to conduct interviews and craft engaging narratives will set them apart from automated content.

• American music journalism vs. global perspectives: The U.S. has long dominated music news, but international markets are reshaping how we cover the industry. From K-pop coverage in South Korea to Afrobeat analysis in Nigeria, global perspectives are becoming essential. Writers with a strong grasp of music history and an ability to connect different cultural influences will thrive in this expanding landscape.

Whether you’re fresh out of high school, hold a bachelor’s degree, or are looking to pivot your music career, one thing is clear—music journalism is evolving, but the demand for insightful, knowledgeable writers isn’t going anywhere.

Should you pursue a music journalism career?

Music journalism is competitive, unpredictable, and not nearly as glamorous as it looks. But if you love music and storytelling—and can handle a little chaos—it’s one of the most rewarding gigs out there.

Of course, passion alone won’t pay the bills. You need great writing, smart pitching, and—most importantly—a list of publications that actually pay.

We’ve got you covered. Grab our free list of 200+ publications that pay $1 per word or more, start pitching, and get paid to write about what you love.