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Songwriters


Overview

Songwriters

Introduction

Songwriters write the words and music for songs, including songs for recordings, advertising jingles, and theatrical performances. We hear the work of songwriters every day, and yet most songwriters remain anonymous, even if a song's performer is famous. Many songwriters perform their own songs. Songwriters are also known as composers and lyricists. 

Quick Facts


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Median Salary

$63,200

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Employment Prospects

Fair

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Minimum Education Level

High School Diploma


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Experience

Experience with a variety of song styles recommended


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Skills

Interpersonal
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Personality Traits

Artistic
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Earnings

Songwriters' earnings vary widely, from next to nothing to many millions of dollars. A beginning songwriter may work for free, or for low pay, just to gain experience. A songwriter may sell a jingle to an advertising agency for $1,000 or may receive many thousands of dollars if his or her work is well known. Royalties from a song may reach $20,000 per year or more per song, and a successful son...

Work Environment

Songwriters generally possess a strong love for music and, regardless of the level of their success, usually find fulfillment in their careers because they are doing what they love to do. As freelancers, they will control how they spend their day. They will work out of their own home or office. They will have their own instruments, and possibly their own recording equipment as well. Songwriters...

Outlook

Most songwriters are unable to support themselves from their songwriting alone and must hold other part-time or full-time jobs while writing songs in their spare time. The music industry is very competitive, and there are many more songwriters than paying projects. This situation is expected to continue in the coming years. In addition, the coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on the mus...