The Applaudix Post

To many listeners and independent artists, the process of making and promoting music at the highest level can seem simple for major artists who already have a large following. But the truth is, behind every hit single and viral moment is a massive team of professionals whose work often goes unnoticed. From legal advisors to engineers to tour staff, there are hundreds of moving parts that turn creative ideas into global successes.

These hidden roles reveal just how collaborative the industry really is, and why so many artists choose to work with labels or management teams that can provide access to specialized expertise. For anyone hoping to break into music, whether as an artist or behind the scenes, understanding these positions can open up exciting new career paths and serve as an introduction to the music industry.

Below is a breakdown of the industry’s lesser-known roles that make up the music industry iceberg, organized by their core function.

Well-Known Roles

Together, these roles represent the professional core most people recognize in the music business. They form the backbone of an artist’s team, balancing creative output with financial, legal, and promotional stability.

Mixing & Mastering Engineers

These specialists finalize a song’s sonic quality, ensuring balance, clarity, and consistency across all playback systems. They prepare tracks for streaming, radio, and physical distribution.

Publicists

Publicists manage an artist’s public image, securing interviews, press coverage, and event appearances. Their work shapes the narrative around a release or tour.

Business Managers

Business managers oversee the artist’s financial health, handling budgets, taxes, and investments. They help ensure longevity and financial stability in a volatile industry.

Entertainment Attorneys

These lawyers handle contract negotiations, copyright issues, and dispute resolutions. They protect the artist’s rights and ensure all deals are legally sound.

Creative & Talent Development

This section focuses on the creative minds who nurture talent and craft music from concept to release. They bridge the gap between raw artistry and the commercial or emotional impact that connects with audiences.

A&R (Artists & Repertoire)

A&Rs scout new talent and guide creative direction, helping shape an artist’s sound and catalog.

Topliners

Topliners write melodies and lyrics over pre-produced instrumentals, creating the vocal “hooks” that make songs memorable.

Vocal Producers

These producers coach singers through recording sessions, ensuring performance quality and emotional delivery.

Music Supervisors

Music supervisors choose songs for films, TV shows, commercials, and video games, aligning music with mood and story.

Production & Studio

Behind every polished production are technical experts who make the sound possible. Their precision and creativity shape the auditory experience, both in studio recordings and live shows.

Sound Designers

Sound designers craft custom audio textures, from atmospheric pads to cinematic effects, enriching a track’s depth.

Backline Techs

These technicians manage and maintain instruments and equipment during sessions or live performances, ensuring everything runs flawlessly.

Business & Infrastructure

These behind-the-scenes professionals manage the financial and logistical machinery of the music industry. Without them, artists would struggle to collect earnings or navigate the complex ecosystem of rights and royalties.

Royalty Accountants

These specialists monitor and audit revenue streams across streaming, publishing, and performance rights.

Music Publishers

Publishers manage songwriting catalogs, register compositions, and collect royalties worldwide.

Sync Licensing Agents

Licensing agents negotiate song placements in film, TV, and games, securing exposure and revenue for artists and writers.

Marketing & Promotion

Modern music success depends heavily on visibility, and these roles drive how the world discovers new artists. From playlists to partnerships, they amplify reach across digital and physical spaces.

Radio Pluggers/Promoters

They pitch songs to radio stations, building relationships to secure airplay and increase exposure.

DSP Curators (Spotify, Apple Music editors)

Curators decide which songs appear on influential playlists, often determining streaming success.

Brand Partnership Managers

These managers connect artists with sponsorships and brand collaborations, expanding visibility and income streams.

Touring & Live

The live sector transforms recordings into immersive experiences. Touring professionals combine logistics, sound, and production expertise to bring music to life night after night.

Tour Managers

Tour managers handle travel logistics, accommodation, and daily scheduling for artists on the road.

Front of House (FOH) Engineers 

FOH engineers mix the sound for the audience, shaping how each performance is experienced live.

Production Managers

They coordinate lighting, sound, staging, and crew to keep shows running seamlessly.

Monitor Engineers

Monitor engineers mix what performers hear in their in-ear monitors, allowing them to stay on pitch and in time.

Roadies/Stagehands

These crew members handle physical setup and teardown, ensuring stages are ready for every show.