How much do background music jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for background music in the United States is $57,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of someone working in background music selection or production?

Professionals in Background Music roles are responsible for curating playlists, selecting or producing tracks that suit specific environments such as retail spaces, restaurants, hotels, or multimedia projects. Daily tasks often include updating music libraries, coordinating with clients or management to understand brand identity, and ensuring all selections are properly licensed. You may also monitor audience feedback and make adjustments based on performance analytics or customer input. Collaboration with marketing teams, audio technicians, and sometimes legal departments is common to ensure seamless implementation and copyright compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the background music position, and why are they important?

To excel in a Background Music role, you need a keen musical ear, understanding of mood-setting, and knowledge of music licensing, often supported by experience in music production or audio engineering. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), music libraries, and copyright clearance systems is typically necessary. Creativity, attention to detail, and adaptability help individuals tailor music selections to diverse settings and client preferences. These competencies ensure the right atmosphere is consistently created, aligning with branding and audience expectations in venues or media.

What is background music?

A Background Music job involves selecting, composing, or curating music to enhance an environment, film, game, or commercial without distracting from the main content. Professionals in this field work on setting the right mood, ensuring seamless integration with visuals or dialogue. They may work in industries such as broadcasting, hospitality, gaming, or retail to create an immersive auditory experience.

$40k-$64k Background Music Jobs (NOW HIRING) Aug 2026

PARC Hospice

Music Therapy

West Bloomfield, MI · On-site

Music therapy in hospice uses the power of music 🎶 to bring comfort, relaxation, and emotional support 💛. Weather it's listening to favorite songs, gentle singing, or soft background music, it ...

PARC Hospice

Music Therapy

West Bloomfield, MI · On-site

Music therapy in hospice uses the power of music 🎶 to bring comfort, relaxation, and emotional support 💛. Weather it's listening to favorite songs, gentle singing, or soft background music, it ...

St Clare Of Assisi

Music Teacher

Edwards, CO · On-site

$20K - $36K/yr

At least a Bachelor's degree, preferably with a background music or music education. * Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication, sound judgment, cooperation with ...

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St Clare Of Assisi

Music Teacher

Edwards, CO · On-site

$20K - $36K/yr

At least a Bachelor's degree, preferably with a background music or music education. * Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication, sound judgment, cooperation with ...