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Music Writer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

mxdwn

Breaking Music News Writer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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?

LHP MUSIC

Music Teacher

Redlands, CA · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

LHP MUSIC

Music Teacher

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

LHP MUSIC

Music Teacher

Bakersfield, CA

$25/hr

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 ...

LHP MUSIC

Music Teacher

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

LHP MUSIC

Music Teacher

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

Mercor

Thai Music Audio Expert

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$17/hr

Utilize expertise in music writing and understanding directions in English. Qualifications Must-Have * 3+ years of experience as a music producer, audio engineer, or sound mixer. * College degree in ...

Nick Rail Music

Music Teacher

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Nick Rail Music - Private/Group Music Instructor Nick Rail Music is seeking EXPERIENCED MUSIC ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

Nick Rail Music

Music Teacher

Redlands, CA · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Nick Rail Music - Private/Group Music Instructor Nick Rail Music is seeking EXPERIENCED MUSIC ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

Nick Rail Music

Music Teacher

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

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

Music Teacher

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Nick Rail Music - Private/Group Music Instructor Nick Rail Music is seeking EXPERIENCED MUSIC ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

Nick Rail Music

Music Teacher

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Nick Rail Music - Private/Group Music Instructor Nick Rail Music is seeking EXPERIENCED MUSIC ... Able to communicate through various means (written and verbal) with diverse, individuals, at all ...

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All JobsMusic Writer JobsMusic Writer Jobs in California

Music Writer information

See California salary details

$11

$23

$41

How much do music writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for music writer in California is $23.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

How much money does a music writer make?

Music writers' earnings vary based on experience, publication, and location, but they typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually. Freelance writers may have variable income depending on assignments and reputation, while those employed by media outlets often receive a steady salary. Strong writing skills and industry knowledge can influence earning potential.

What degree do you need to be a music writer?

There is no specific degree required to become a music writer, but many have bachelor's degrees in journalism, communications, music, or related fields. Strong writing skills, musical knowledge, and familiarity with industry tools like music databases or editing software are important for success in this role.
More about Music Writer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Music Writer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Music Writer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Music Writer jobs in California?

For Music Writer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Writer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Writer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Music Writer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Music Writer job openings:

Music Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Writer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,858 per year, or $24 per hour.

Breaking Music News Writer

mxdwn

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Company Description
mxdwn, all that matters in music.
Job Description
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? Look no further, because mxdwn is seeking applicants for positions for breaking news music writers.
The position is broken into a series of time-slots, and you will be required to cover 3-4 six-hour shifts a week, depending on what is available and fits your schedule. The ideal candidate will possess the timeliness and dependability to get instructed breaking news articles published within 15-20 minutes. Essentially, the candidate is "on-call" to produce content during their shift.
As breaking music news is fluid in its nature, the writer should be able to adapt and improvise when necessary within their articles. While we prefer candidates with strong writing backgrounds, the most important aspect of this role is the ability of the writer to get their stories published quickly and without factual errors.
This position offers candidates the opportunity to improve their writing and reporting skills, as well as the opportunity to work under pressure. This position is unpaid.
If you think you're the right fit for our needs, apply today!
*This is an unpaid, part-time, remote position - you do NOT need to be located in Los Angeles*
Qualifications
Ability to be available during your designated shifts. Reliable internet access on shifts required, should have your own computer.
Additional Information
Requirements:
- Must have a personal computer or smart phone with internet access and WordPress capability.
- Must have personal email address, and the ability to check it daily.
- Must be proficient in English grammar and syntax.
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About mxdwn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

mxdwn.com is an established online entertainment magazine that focuses on news, original reviews, features, photography and interviews. We are a leader and innovator in providing dynamic entertainment content. Over the past 12 years, mxdwn has established itself as one of the most credible, reliable and forward-thinking entertainment publications in North America. What began as a music magazine founded by Editor in Chief Raymond Flotat has evolved into a valued resource not only for music but also for movies, video games, television and pop culture. Our readers rely on us to provide timely and relevant entertainment news, thoughtful reviews, up-to-the-minute event coverage, and to accurately report on all that matters in entertainment.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Social media

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