Most great musicians today started their paths in typical careers. The majority actually began with employment in unrelated jobs like bartenders and waitresses or even backup singers.
In the music industry, your side gig does not affect your success in the industry.If you decide to make music your primary career, you’re going to need a job that supplements your income. Without a source of income from the music industry, it can be hard to pay your bills. However, there are many options when it comes to side gigs. It all depends on how creative you are with your knowledge and what you have at hand.
Getting a side gig that has a relationship with music sounds perfect for many reasons. However, most great jobs available for musicians are in unrelated fields. Such a gig allows you to focus all your creative energy on your career.Today, ForbesToday.org outlines a few ideas to get you started.
Start with Your Resume
One of the first steps in getting a side gig is to update your resume. That can seem pretty daunting at first. Luckily, though, there are plenty of tools to help you. For example, you can create your own free resume using an online generator that offers plenty of time-tested templates that are sure to highlight your skills. And best of all, it’s free! After that, it’s time to start looking for the perfect side gig for you.
Freelance Writing
Most songwriters are also talented in other forms of writing. With some writing experience, you can contact music publications that offer compensation for contributions. Inspire other artists by writing articles about your experiences in the music industry. To attract traffic, format the articles to contain tips and recommendations for other artists. You can also review other artists’ work, such as albums, or interview some artists. Besides generating income, it will gain you exposure and positive press.
Graphic Design
Graphic design requires some level of expertise, but as an artist, you may find it easy. There’s no shortage of online courses that teach graphic design. Use these skills to complement your creativity by designing social media ads, advertising materials, cover posters for other artists, or even band logos.
Managing Other Musicians
As a successful musician in your local community, you may have encountered requests from upcoming artists for management or mentorship. Leverage this idea to create a reliable side gig. You can start by getting in touch with new artists who can benefit from your guidance and experience around the music scene.
It’s essential to understand that the artist you’re managing has to succeed too for you to succeed, as MasterClass points out. Focus your energy on assisting them to meet their goals, then sit back and enjoy your hard work. This side gig is both fulfilling and profitable. You’ll build a good reputation by assisting other artists to succeed and earn a respectable income.
Modeling
As a musician, you’re a brand intertwined with your music. You need to stay relevant and carry yourself in a manner that other people relate to and respect. Always looking your best creates a positive image for your music. To uphold this image, modeling is a side gig you should consider. Model for agencies and companies or shoot some commercials for TV to generate some income. Besides the great pay, it will assist you in building a portfolio and expose you to a potential fan base.
As an artist, whether you’re looking to earn some extra cash or start your own business, there are many options available. Using the tips above, starting with polishing and updating your resume, you’ll be able to earn money while still focusing on your art.
