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Music Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Tennessean is seeking a talented, energetic writer to join our award-winning music team in Nashville. The Tennessean owns coverage of Music City's chief export - country music - as well as ...

The Tennessean is seeking a talented, energetic writer to join our award-winning music team in Nashville. The Tennessean owns coverage of Music City's chief export - country music - as well as ...

To connect with us, visit www.usatodayco.com The Tennessean is seeking a talented, energetic writer to join our award-winning music team in Nashville. The Tennessean owns coverage of Music City ...

... music and other forms of entertainment. As a worldwide leader, Collider operates at a rapid pace ... Research and write original Features * Pitch article topics to our Editorial team. * Be a dedicated ...

Do you like writing about music and keeping up with the latest news in the industry? Do you have the ability and availability to produce music news content quickly and accurately when called upon?

Expertise in music technology and music writing software RESPONSIBILITIES: * Teach undergraduate studio percussion, drumset, and composition lessons to music majors, minors, and non-majors * Teach ...

Expertise in music technology and music writing software RESPONSIBILITIES: * Teach undergraduate studio percussion, drumset, and composition lessons to music majors, minors, and non-majors * Teach ...

... music, and other forms of entertainment. As a worldwide leader, Collider operates at a rapid pace ... Research and write original features. Pitch article topics to our Editorial team. Be a dedicated ...

Nick Rail Music is a family owned chain of music stores that have served Southern California for ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

Nick Rail Music is a family owned chain of music stores that have served Southern California for ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

Nick Rail Music is a family owned chain of music stores that have served Southern California for ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

Nick Rail Music is a family owned chain of music stores that have served Southern California for ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

Nick Rail Music is a family owned chain of music stores that have served Southern California for ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

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Music Writer information

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$11

$24

$42

How much do music writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for music writer in the United States is $24.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Music Writer vs Music Journalist?

AspectMusic WriterMusic Journalist
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required, but a background in music or writing helpsOften has journalism or communications background, sometimes with specialized training
Work EnvironmentFreelance or in-house writing for magazines, websites, or blogsWork for media outlets, magazines, or newspapers, often covering music events and interviews
Industry UsageUsed broadly for any writing about music, including reviews and featuresSpecifically associated with reporting, investigative work, and in-depth articles

Music Writers focus on creating content such as reviews, features, and blog posts about music, often in a freelance or digital setting. Music Journalists typically work for media outlets, producing news, interviews, and investigative reports. While both roles require strong writing skills and music knowledge, journalists often have more formal journalism training and work within traditional media environments. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the music media industry.

What does a Music Writer do?

A Music Writer creates written content about music, which can include reviews, interviews, features, and analysis of artists, albums, and trends. They may work for magazines, websites, newspapers, or as freelancers. Music Writers often attend concerts, listen to new releases, and research musical history and culture to provide insightful commentary. Their goal is to inform, entertain, and influence readers’ understanding of music.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Music Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Music Writer, you need strong writing skills, a deep understanding of music theory and history, and a relevant degree or portfolio of published work. Familiarity with audio editing software, content management systems, and digital publishing platforms is highly valuable. Creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to meet deadlines set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure that music writers can produce insightful, engaging, and timely content for diverse audiences and media outlets.

What Does a Music Writer Do?

As a music writer, your job is to compose songs and write lyrics, often for other people to play. This involves writing a melody and adjusting songs to the needs of your clients. While many music writers create and sell their work for professional recording artists to perform, you can also write scores for films or commercials. Some details of this job depend on your employer. Many music writers produce songs independently and try to sell their work to artists, but you can also work full-time work for entertainment companies like movie studios or video game developers. Music writers are also known as songwriters and music composers.

How do Music Writers typically collaborate with editors and other contributors during the content creation process?

Music Writers often work closely with editors to refine their articles, reviews, or features before publication. This collaboration usually involves pitching story ideas, receiving feedback on drafts, and making revisions to align with the publication's voice and standards. Additionally, Music Writers may coordinate with photographers, graphic designers, and sometimes even artists or publicists to gather accurate information and visuals. Open communication and adaptability are key, as deadlines and editorial directions can shift based on trending topics or breaking news in the music industry.
What cities are hiring for Music Writer jobs? Cities with the most 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 Music Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Music Writer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Music Writer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 51% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 47% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,519 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Music writer

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Gannett rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 65 rated media


Job description

The Tennessean is seeking a talented, energetic writer to join our award-winning music team in Nashville. The Tennessean owns coverage of Music City’s chief export – country music – as well as Nashville’s exploding Americana, rock, Christian, hip-hop and indie music scenes. We’re looking for a versatile reporter that can break news across all of these genres, write engaging features and smart analysis stories about Nashville’s ever-changing musical landscape. That includes stories focused on the intersection of lifestyle content and coverage of Nashville's music scene because music is not just what sets us apart, it's part of our DNA.

The successful candidate will have strong entrepreneurial skills and at least three to five years of experience and a passion for storytelling across an array of digital and social media platforms.

In this role, you will:

  • Research, write and report on compelling journalism that continuously grow our audience by informing and engaging readers.
  • Act as a public ambassador through community outreach and connect with readers through social media.
  • Use live video to spotlight breaking news and high interest events
  • Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues. Produce watchdog journalism that leads to change.
  • Use real time metrics to respond to user demand and reader interest
  • Work with newsroom leaders to shape storytelling to meet audience needs and interests on every platform.
  • Contribute to the community’s greater good through impactful journalism.

Here's what you need:

  • Bachelor's degree in journalism
  • Experience working for an online-only news website, newspaper or magazine
  • Solid communication and time management skills
  • Experience with video production and editing
  • Must be able to work well on deadline
  • A valid drivers license with reliable transportation is also required

How To Apply: 

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:

1.    Your resume – one to two pages.
2.    A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
3.    Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

About The Tennessean and Nashville

The Tennessean is the state's largest news organization and is a fast-paced, collaborative operation full of ambitious journalists in every stage of their careers. Reporting frequently leads to rapid change at the state and local levels, and the newsroom frequently wins national awards such as the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Awards grand prize and the Scripps Howard Award in breaking news. The Tennessean was named one of E&P's "10 That Do It Right" two years in a row.
Its office is located in the heart of Nashville, one of the most vibrant cities in the country. Music City more than lives up to its name, and its live music offerings are supplemented by three professional sports teams, a vibrant food scene and abundant things to do. Middle Tennessee is rapidly growing and attracting a variety of new businesses on a regular basis.
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