Musicians, popular music

What does a musician in popular music do? – Tasks and work environment

A musician in popular music works with creating, performing, and sometimes arranging music in genres such as pop, rock, hip-hop, soul, and similar. Tasks can include playing instruments, singing, producing music in a studio, participating in tours, or performing live at concerts and events. Many musicians work project-based in bands, as solo artists, or as hired session musicians. The work environment varies between rehearsal spaces, studios, stages, and sometimes teaching or remote recording. The profession is characterized by a fast pace, irregular hours, and demands for flexibility.

Salary development over time

The salary for a musician in popular music has fluctuated over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month. In 2023, there was a slight increase to 44 300 SEK, representing a temporary decline compared to the previous year. In 2024, the average salary rose sharply to 48 300 SEK, an increase of approximately 9% compared to the previous year. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for live performances, digital music services, and a general recovery in the cultural sector after the pandemic. Salary levels are also influenced by gender, employer sector, and experience, with men generally earning more than women in the profession.

Musician, popular music salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK/month (female, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 51,900 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Hourly wage: 290 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of what men do (women: 44,200 SEK, men: 51,900 SEK)
• Regional differences: No available statistics

Education and qualifications

To work as a musician in popular music, a combination of musical talent, practical experience, and often formal education is usually required. The entry path varies, but many choose to attend music high schools, folk high schools, or higher education programs specializing in popular music. Practical experience through performances, collaborations, and productions is an important part of skill development. Self-studies and digital courses have also become increasingly common.

• Music high school or artistic program: 3 years
• Folk high school with a music focus: 1–2 years
• Higher education, e.g., university of music: 3–4 years
• Courses and certifications: For example, music production, songwriting, arranging
• Internships and self-study: Regular participation in bands, studio work, and live performances
• Prerequisites: Basic music theory and instrument or singing skills

Common benefits and compensations

Musicians in popular music can, depending on employment form, have access to benefits such as travel allowances, fees for live performances, per diems during tours, and sometimes pension contributions or health insurance via collective agreements. Some musician collectives or larger employers also provide access to studios, instruments, and educational support.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a musician in popular music is highly competitive, with many applicants for each position, especially in larger cities and popular genres. The market is characterized by uncertainty, project-based employment, and often irregular income. Digitalization and streaming services have opened new opportunities but also created new challenges regarding revenue streams. Many musicians need to combine multiple roles to secure a stable income. Success requires both musical skill and strong self-promotion abilities.

Tips for aspiring musicians in popular music

To succeed as a musician in popular music, it’s important to be persistent and passionate about music, as the path to establishing oneself is often long. Being creative and willing to experiment with different genres and expressions can open new doors and help find a niche. Social skills are important, as networking and collaborations often lead to new gigs and partnerships. Developing digital skills, such as recording and producing music independently, increases opportunities in today’s music market. The ability to take initiative and be self-reliant makes it easier to drive projects forward and find new job opportunities. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as tasks and schedules often vary greatly. Finally, being open to complementary roles, such as teaching or songwriting, can create long-term security.

Key facts about musicians in popular music

• Education level: Usually high school or higher education in music
• Work environment: Stages, studios, rehearsals, and sometimes teaching spaces
• Common work form: Project employment, freelancing, or self-employment
• Demand: Great opportunities for work, but high competition for assignments
• Special skills: Instrument or vocal technique, music production, songwriting

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years in the profession, a musician in popular music may have established themselves as a solo artist, band member, producer, or songwriter. Some move on to roles such as music teacher, arranger, or sound engineer. According to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecast for the group “Musicians, singers, and composers,” job prospects are considered good, although competition is high, and many work part-time or leave the profession. In five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, indicating a stable but challenging job market. Currently, there are approximately 620 job openings in the field. Career paths can also include international collaborations or transitions to related careers within culture and media.

Frequently asked questions about musicians in popular music

• What does a musician in popular music earn?
  - A musician in popular music has an average salary of 48 300 SEK per month, but the salary varies based on experience, gender, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary for musicians in popular music?
  - Men earn an average of 51,900 SEK and women 44,200 SEK, which means women earn 85 % of men's salaries.
• Is higher education required to become a musician in popular music?
  - No, but education at a music high school, folk high school, or university of music is common and can provide more opportunities.
• What are the most common work arrangements for musicians in popular music?
  - Most work as freelancers, sole proprietors, or on a project basis, sometimes combined with teaching.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but competition for assignments remains high.
• What is the highest and lowest salary within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 51,900 SEK (male, private sector employee) and the lowest 42,200 SEK (female, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years).
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No available statistics for regional differences within the profession.