What does a music artist do?

What is a Music Artist?

A music artist creates, performs, and shares music with others. They may sing, play instruments, write songs, or produce music, often blending creativity and personal expression to connect with an audience. Music artists can work in many styles and genres, from pop and rock to classical, jazz, hip-hop, and beyond. Their work can be shared through live performances, recordings, streaming platforms, and social media, reaching listeners around the world.

Being a music artist often involves more than just making music. Many artists also manage their public image, collaborate with producers or other musicians, and interact with fans. Some choose to work independently, while others sign with record labels to get professional support for recording, promotion, and distribution. At its core, being a music artist is about using music to express emotions, tell stories, and inspire others.

What does a Music Artist do?

Duties and Responsibilities
Music artists take on a variety of duties and responsibilities that go beyond simply performing. Their role involves creativity, professionalism, and commitment to building both their craft and their career. Here are some of the main responsibilities of a music artist:

• Songwriting and Composing: Create original songs by writing lyrics, developing melodies, and arranging music. This process allows artists to share their personal stories, emotions, and ideas while shaping their own unique sound.
• Performing: Sing or play instruments at concerts, festivals, or smaller venues. Performances give artists the chance to connect directly with fans, build their reputation, and gain valuable live experience.
• Recording: Work in studios to record music, often collaborating with producers, sound engineers, and session musicians. Recording sessions help artists produce high-quality tracks for albums, singles, or streaming platforms.
• Promoting Music: Use tools like social media, music videos, interviews, and live events to reach wider audiences. Promotion is key to growing a fanbase, staying relevant, and ensuring new releases get noticed.
• Collaborating: Work with other artists, songwriters, or industry professionals to create new projects. Collaborations can introduce an artist to different audiences and bring fresh ideas and styles into their work.
• Managing Career Development: Make important decisions about contracts, finances, tours, and branding. While many artists have managers or agents, they still play a role in guiding their overall career path and creative direction.
• Practicing and Improving Skills: Dedicate time to rehearsing instruments, vocals, or stage presence. Constant practice helps artists improve their craft, stay competitive, and adapt to changes in musical styles and trends.

Types of Music Artists
Music artists come in various types, each with its own specialization, style, and role within the music industry. Here are some common types of music artists:

• Singer: A singer uses their voice to perform songs, conveying emotions and connecting with an audience. They may perform solo, with a band, or as part of a group, and often work on developing vocal technique and stage presence.
• Songwriter: A songwriter creates the lyrics, melodies, and overall structure of songs. They may write music for themselves to perform or for other artists, often blending creativity with storytelling to connect with listeners.
• Musician: A musician is someone who plays an instrument or multiple instruments to create or perform music. They may perform solo, in bands, or orchestras, and often spend time practicing and studying music to improve their skills.
• DJ (Disc Jockey): DJs specialize in selecting and playing recorded music for an audience. While DJs are known for their role in electronic dance music (EDM), they can also work in various genres, including hip-hop and pop.
• Solo Artist: A solo artist is an individual musician who performs and releases music independently, without being part of a band or group. Solo artists may sing, play instruments, or engage in both.
• Rapper or MC (Master of Ceremonies): Rappers are artists who specialize in rhythmic and poetic vocal delivery, often associated with hip-hop music. They use a distinct style of rhyming and wordplay to convey messages.
• Classical Musician: Classical musicians are trained performers who specialize in classical music genres. This category includes classical singers, instrumentalists, and orchestral musicians.
• Country Artist: Musicians who specialize in country music, a genre characterized by storytelling lyrics, acoustic instruments, and themes often centered around rural life, love, and heartbreak. Examples include Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton.
• Jazz Musician: Jazz artists explore improvisation and diverse musical elements. Jazz musicians can be instrumentalists, vocalists, or both, contributing to the genre's rich and dynamic tradition.
• Electronic Music Artist: Artists who create music primarily using electronic devices and technology. This category includes electronic DJs, producers, and performers of various electronic music subgenres.
• Folk Singer: Folk singers specialize in folk music, often characterized by acoustic instruments, storytelling lyrics, and a connection to cultural or historical traditions.
• Pop Star: Pop artists create music with broad appeal, often featuring catchy melodies and accessible lyrics. Pop stars are known for their commercial success and popularity among a wide audience.
• Rock Musician: Rock artists encompass a broad range of styles within the rock genre, from classic rock to alternative and punk. They often play guitars, drums, and bass and may include vocalists.
• Indie Artist: Indie (independent) artists operate outside major record labels and often produce music with a DIY (do-it-yourself) approach. Indie artists can span various genres.

What is the workplace of a Music Artist like?

Music artists can work in a variety of settings depending on their style and career stage. Recording studios are one of the most common workplaces, where artists spend hours writing, composing, and recording tracks. These studios are equipped with soundproof rooms, microphones, instruments, and digital equipment that help them create high-quality music. For many artists, the studio is a creative space where ideas are tested, refined, and brought to life.

Live performance venues are another key workplace. Artists often perform in small clubs, concert halls, festivals, or large stadiums, depending on their popularity. Touring is also a big part of an artist’s career, meaning their “office” can often be a stage in a new city each night. This part of the job requires energy, adaptability, and the ability to connect with an audience, no matter the setting.

Outside of performing and recording, music artists also spend time working from home or personal spaces. Here, they may write songs, practice their instrument or vocals, and manage their online presence through social media. Many also collaborate virtually with other musicians and producers. This mix of professional studios, live stages, and personal creative spaces makes the workplace of a music artist both dynamic and flexible.