Non-Musician Jobs in Country Music (credit, job openings, college)

[PAY4WARD]

Hi All,

I love Nashville and I love country music! I'm at a plateau in my career and am considering taking the leap. I'd love to move Nashville to work around my passion. I have no interest in being an artist; I'd just like to be part of the team. I'm sure my work history and my passion would more than qualify me for a number of jobs. I'm just not sure where to start.

I've been an Office Manager, Call Center Manager, EMT, Firefighter, and 911 Dispatcher. All of the above have given me an outstanding ability to multi-task and work well under pressure. I would have excellent references from any previous employers and would pass even the most comprehensive background checks. (Currently in 911 meaning I work for a law enforcement agency.)

Does anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks.
Julie

[MiddleTNresident]

I am looking for the same thing and I have 15 years of related experience in entertainment administration, especially entertainment contracts. Have found nothing but unpaid college internships (they provide college credit but no money). When I try to apply to non-entertainment jobs, I get the cold shoulder. I'm experienced to the industry and at the same time trapped to an industry that has no jobs. So I have no advice to offer, sorry. Most of the job openings I am seeing are in the medical support jobs, so your EMT and 911 background may be a better path to follow.

[Jzer21]

It's all about knowing the right people. The types of jobs you are looking for were difficult to get even before the economy went sour. I have some friends working on music row and, from what I've seen, those types of positions are largely filled by wannabe musicians and artists who have done a little networking.

[denawilliams]

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but music business jobs are near impossible to get unless you have serious connections or a background in music business jobs already. I'm actually surprised there are even intern positions open right now. That is how some people, even considerably overqualified, get their foot in the door. This is because they fill many of their openings internally so they start unpaid and wait until something else opens up. At some of these places, you'll see director leveled people who started in the mail room.

[rainbo]

I worked in the business for five years. The number one thing you don't want is for your would-be employer to know is that you are a "fan". They also don't want to know that you have any interest whatsoever in becoming an artist, writer or musician "wanna be" in any capacity. They want their employees to be very professional (a good appearance is a plus), pretty, cute, etc. for women is +. Of course, you must be proficient in the skills they are looking for. Yes, if you have a successful artist, musician, friend of the person who is hiring for the position will help. Don't get your hopes up