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Freelance Music Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Complex

Freelance Line Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Through innovative content, Complex tells stories of music, streetwear and style, sports, art and ... Write production budgets when required, for internal programming proposals, branded opportunities ...

Universal Music Group

Director, Creative

New York, NY · On-site

$30K/yr

We are the world's leading music company. In everything we do, we are committed to artistry ... Excellent written and verbal communication skills * Basic proficiency of Adobe InDesign, Adobe ...

ElevenLabs

Writer and Editor

Denmark, NY · On-site

ElevenCreative empowers creators and marketers to generate and edit speech, music, image, and video ... Managing a network of freelance writers and editors to scale output as needed. Requirements The ...

GhanaMade Limited

Editorial Intern

Easton, PA

We are looking for highly enthusiastic content writers who are interested in topics such as African affairs, lifestyle, music, art, politics, social justice, etc. Our freelance writer program will ...

Fender

Art Director

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$130K - $136K/yr

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation ("FMIC"), an American icon born in Southern California, is a ... Strong written, oral, and visual communication skills. Must be open to and eager to execute on ...

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How much do freelance music writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance music writer in the United States is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance music writer?

A freelance music writer is a professional who writes about music on a contract or per-assignment basis, rather than being employed by a single publication. They may create album reviews, artist interviews, concert recaps, or opinion pieces for magazines, blogs, websites, and other media outlets. Freelance music writers often pitch their ideas to editors, manage their own schedules, and work with multiple clients to cover a variety of music genres and topics.

What are some common challenges freelance music writers face when working with multiple publications or clients?

Freelance music writers often juggle assignments from various editors and outlets, which can lead to challenges like differing style guidelines, tight deadlines, and varying editorial expectations. Managing your time effectively and keeping communication clear are essential for balancing multiple projects without sacrificing quality. Additionally, freelancers frequently need to pitch their own story ideas and build strong industry relationships to secure consistent work. Flexibility and networking are key to overcoming these hurdles and sustaining a successful freelance music writing career.

What does a freelance music writer do?

Freelance music jobs cover a variety of jobs in the music industry. Various professionals are needed to write, record, and produce a song and release it. You may write and sell lyrics, electronic beats, or entire songs. Opportunities also exist on the technical end with sound and broadcast technicians who focus on the equipment and recording aspects. You can also work on a contract basis to compose scores for a one-off project or create music for marketing purposes for an organization. A myriad of support positions also exists, from administrative to advertising to public relations. The creation of music is often only the beginning of the responsibilities of publishing it.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance music writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Music Writer, you need strong writing skills, a deep knowledge of music theory and genres, and a portfolio of published work or relevant experience. Familiarity with content management systems, SEO tools, and digital publishing platforms is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and the ability to meet deadlines set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for producing engaging, insightful content that resonates with audiences and meets the demands of editors and clients.

What is the difference between Freelance Music Writer vs Music Journalist?

AspectFreelance Music WriterMusic Journalist
CredentialsWriting skills, music knowledgeWriting skills, music knowledge, journalism background
Work EnvironmentFreelance, remote, project-basedMedia outlets, magazines, online platforms
Employer/IndustryClients, music blogs, publishersMedia companies, magazines, newspapers
Search/Comparison IntentFreelance Music Writer vs Music Journalist

While both roles involve writing about music, a Freelance Music Writer typically works independently on various projects for different clients, focusing on articles, reviews, or content creation. A Music Journalist often works for media outlets, producing in-depth reports, features, or investigative pieces within a journalistic framework. Both require strong writing skills and music knowledge, but the journalist role may demand journalism credentials and a focus on reporting standards.

More about Freelance Music Writer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Music Writer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Music Writer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Writer jobs? The most popular types of Music Writer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Music Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Music Writer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Music Writer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Music Writer jobs are:
Freelance Music Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Music Writer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,412 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Freelance Line Producer

Complex

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Company And Culture
Complex is the definitive platform for global youth culture and music lifestyle, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge content, commerce and live experiences with unparalleled scale. Through innovative content, Complex tells stories of music, streetwear and style, sports, art and beyond. Its content engages in a dynamic conversation with the audience, reflecting and shaping the zeitgeist of convergence culture. A powerful media juggernaut paired with a curated marketplace, Complex is redefining the way fans interact with their favorite brands and artists and reshaping the future of digital culture and commerce.
What You'll Do
  • Oversee the production execution of multiple projects from budget creation to final delivery.
  • Lead cross-functional communications across various departments including creative, talent, studio operations, post production, design, accounting, legal.
  • Write production budgets when required, for internal programming proposals, branded opportunities, and potential third party partners.
  • Maintain and manage up to date budget forecasting for multiple projects. Track asset counts where needed.
  • Actualize budgets with production accounting monthly, provide production leadership with regular reporting.
  • Work closely with creative teams to translate concepts into achievable productions.
  • Hire freelance crew, secure locations, engage production design, and coordinate equipment rentals in various cities across varying creative needs.
  • Maintain a robust production roster of crew and creative partners.
  • Supervise shoot days either on set or remotely, ensuring smooth operations, time management, and safety.
  • Review and approve all production invoices and credit card transactions associated with the assigned project.
  • Train and oversee production and support staff.
  • Troubleshoot day-to-day production challenges and appropriately escalate as needed.
  • Plan, shoot, and edit high-quality photos and videos for campaigns, social media, websites, and other marketing channels.
  • Manage production timelines, shot lists, logistics, and coordination with external vendors or talent.
  • Scout locations, source props, and prepare setups for both studio and on-location shoots.
  • Onboard vendors and collaboratorsEnsure all content aligns with brand guidelines and meets quality standards.

Who You Are
  • 7+ years production management experience at media companyMust be proficient in Office & Google Suite, Movie Magic, and comfortable with Airtable
  • Strong budget management and production cost forecasting
  • Knowledgeable of AI tools to maximize productivity within digital content
  • Comfortable with crew and producer partner negotiations
  • Comfortable managing multiple fast-paced productions at various stages of development and delivery
  • Understanding of digital video production, including social-first formats
  • Familiarity with post-production workflows, file formats, and versioning for various platforms
  • Adaptable in fast paced environments and resourceful, with a proactive problem-solving mindset
  • Enthusiasm and pride for best in class work is a must
  • Self-motivated to produce personal excellence
  • Strong project management skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Able to collaborate with cross-functional teams
  • Strong eye for detail, quality, and brand alignment
  • Problem-solving and ability to troubleshoot on set

$90,000 - $105,000 a year
The Pay Range, which consists of salary and commission, for this position is listed. Actual pay will vary based on factors including, but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range listed is just one component of Complex Total Rewards offerings for employees.
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
The above statements cover what are generally believed to be principal and essential functions of the job. Specific circumstances may allow or require some incumbents assigned to the job to perform a different combination of duties.
Complex participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for visa sponsorship.

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