How to Work for a Music Mogul

For young dreamers interested in working for music moguls, you must possess determination, passion for music and a strong work ethic. If you have dreams of working for Sean Combs, Jimmy Iovine, Sylvia Rhone, Russell Simmons or Clive Davis, memorize these insider tips for securing the opportunity to work behind the scenes for a music mogul.

Instructions

1. Research the various ways the heads of record labels entered the music business. Input the names of the major music moguls in each genre of music into a search engine. Read music industry magazines and books to develop a deep knowledge of the history of the music business and its key players.

2. Take courses in school that are necessary to succeed in the music business. Working for a music mogul requires not only an enthusiasm for music and creativity, but a critical understanding of marketing, artist development, intellectual property management and show business politics. Whether you are a high school student or undergraduate, immerse yourself into entrepreneurial-based courses that will help you succeed in your quest to work for a music mogul.

3. Move to a city where music moguls are plentiful. Nashville, New York City, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Miami are musical hubs and home to many record labels. If you are unable to move to any of these locations, find a record label in your city. Working with an independent record label is a great way to obtain hands-on training for people aspiring to work for a major label head in the future.

4. Start at the bottom of the music mogul food chain as an intern or assistant. The career climb from the bottom of the employee food chain to the top man or woman in charge is legendary in the music business. Most music label executives started as assistants, interns or lowly members of promotions. If no record labels are hiring, volunteer your services in any way possible to get your foot in the door of the music industry.

5. Continuously build your network with other music industry insiders. Networking is a critical function in the music industry. If you want to work for a music mogul in the future, build a solid rolodex of contacts. Build relationships with members of the promotions staff, radio DJ’s, celebrity assistants, publicists and aspiring artists.

Tips & Warnings

• The music business is an entrepreneurial enterprise. Launching an artist or a new record requires knowledge of marketing, accounting, publicity, economics and sales.

• Become a student of popular music and its history. From classical, jazz and rock to R&B, hip hop and country a superior knowledge of music is required to work for a music mogul.

• Learn the names of popular artists, past and present.

• The ability to make and maintain lifelong relationships is critical for people aspiring to work for a music mogul.