The competition in today’s music industry has made it challenging for artists and musicians to make it big. However, fame and exposure aren’t the only way to gauge success. You can pursue other rewarding careers in the industry besides being a musician.
Here are the four alternative careers you can pursue today in the music industry:
1. DJ
From David Guetta to Calvin Harris, the world has seen various musicians have successful careers as DJs, and there’s still room for more. The work of a DJ isn’t limited to making people groove to their beats at parties or events. You must also have excellent tech skills to pursue this career.
Several universities offer DJing courses, whereas free online apps and software also allow individuals to learn the skill. You can stream your smashing remixes on online music streaming platforms to gain traction or sell your songs. Collaboration with other vocalists and musicians can also help create a best-selling product.
2. Music Therapist
If you have ever used music to get through tough times, you know how effectively music works as a therapy. While some listen to upbeat music to lift their mood, others prefer calming their minds using instruments. If this service interests you, consider becoming a music therapist.
Music therapy is currently in-demand at various healthcare facilities to help patients cope with their diseases. Moreover, rehabs also use this strategy to help clients maintain their willpower against addictions. You’d need a certificate from a recognized institution to pursue this career.
3. Music Producer
Being a music producer may seem like a tedious task. However, music production can work well for you if you are a people person and have natural management skills.
A music producer’s role is more than looking after the finances of recording a song. They work with the artist closely and encourage artists to present themselves authentically in their music. They also advise wherever needed on different equipment and devices which might be needed to make the artist shine.
A music producer also works with the recording label, creating a middle ground for both parties.
4. Music Composer for Films/Film Composer
If you ever recall a great movie, you’d immediately hear its background score going off in your head. That’s because a film’s music matters in adding depth to the scene while capturing the audience with all the senses. If you are ready to make similar magic happen, film composer might be a great career option.
You’d work closely with the film’s director and producer to make the story come alive. Hence, the music for a movie is written afterwards, judging the movie’s overall feel.
Several schools offer film scoring and music production courses, the latter being more comprehensive than the former. However, you’ll have to get ready to start your way from the bottom to make it big in this career. Low-budget student projects might be your first gig.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a renowned musician might not be for everyone. However, that doesn’t mean you must stop pursuing a musical career. These four rewarding alternative careers can help you stay attached to music while earning good.

Eric Dalius is The Executive Chairman of MuzicSwipe, a music and content discovery platform designed to maximize artist discovery and optimize fan relationships. As the host of the weekly podcast “FULLSPEED,” Eric chats with pioneering entrepreneurs from diverse sectors. Through the “Eric Dalius Foundation,” he offers four scholarships to US students. Stay updated with Eric on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Entrepreneur.com.