About Company
Capitol Records, a division of Universal Music Group, stands as an iconic pillar in the global music industry. Established in 1942, our storied legacy is built upon signing and developing groundbreaking artists who have shaped generations of music. From jazz legends to rock icons, pop superstars to contemporary innovators, Capitol Records has consistently been at the forefront of musical discovery and cultural impact. We pride ourselves on our deep commitment to artistry, our innovative approach to talent development, and our ability to foster careers that resonate worldwide. Our headquarters, the legendary Capitol Records Building in Hollywood, is a landmark synonymous with musical excellence and a vibrant hub where creativity thrives. Joining Capitol Records means becoming part of a team dedicated to preserving a rich musical heritage while actively building the future sounds of the world.
Job Description
Are you passionate about music and eager to gain hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of A&R? Capitol Records is offering an exciting and invaluable A&R Internship opportunity for currently enrolled college students. This unpaid internship, offered for college credit, provides a unique chance to immerse yourself in the artist and repertoire (A&R) division of one of the most prestigious record labels in history. As an A&R Intern, you will work directly alongside experienced A&R executives, contributing to the vital process of discovering, nurturing, and signing new talent. This role is perfect for ambitious individuals who possess a keen ear for emerging sounds, a deep understanding of music trends, and a strong desire to learn the intricacies of the music business from the ground up. You will gain practical experience in evaluating demos, tracking artist development, understanding market trends, and contributing to creative projects that support our roster. This internship is designed to provide comprehensive exposure to the A&R process, offering unparalleled insights into artist relations, music publishing, and the strategic decisions behind building successful music careers. While the position is unpaid, the experience, networking opportunities, and college credit earned will be invaluable for launching your career in the music industry. We are looking for highly motivated, detail-oriented individuals with excellent communication skills and a genuine love for all genres of music. This is your chance to contribute to the legacy of Capitol Records while building your own foundation for a successful career in music.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist A&R executives with the evaluation and screening of demo submissions from prospective artists, identifying compelling new talent.
- Conduct thorough research on emerging artists, songwriters, and producers across various platforms (streaming services, social media, live venues) to inform A&R strategy.
- Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations on potential signings, including market analysis, competitive landscape, and artistic viability.
- Attend artist showcases, live performances, and industry events to scout new talent and build industry connections (as permitted and required by your program).
- Support the A&R team with administrative tasks, including scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, and coordinating project timelines.
- Maintain organized databases of artist contacts, demo submissions, and project statuses for efficient team operations.
- Collaborate with other departments such as Marketing, Publicity, and Legal on artist-related projects and campaigns.
- Stay current with music industry trends, new technologies, and cultural shifts influencing music consumption and artist development.
Required Skills
- Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university program, eligible to receive academic credit for the internship.
- Demonstrated passion for music across diverse genres and a keen understanding of current music trends and artist landscapes.
- Exceptional listening skills and a discerning 'ear' for identifying unique and marketable talent.
- Strong research and analytical abilities to gather and synthesize information effectively.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate musical concepts and market insights clearly.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reports and presentations.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic entertainment environment.
- Impeccable organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in the music industry, entertainment, or a related field (e.g., college radio, music blogging, concert promotion, independent artist management, audio production).
- Familiarity with music streaming platforms, analytics tools, and industry-specific software.
- Knowledge of music theory, production, or songwriting processes.
- Proven ability to network effectively and build professional relationships within the music community.
Perks & Benefits
- Gain invaluable hands-on experience within a legendary major record label, observing real-world A&R operations.
- Receive academic credit towards your degree program, fulfilling internship requirements.
- Unparalleled networking opportunities with industry professionals, artists, and fellow interns.
- Direct exposure to the inner workings of the A&R process, from talent discovery to artist development.
- Mentorship opportunities from seasoned music executives who are leaders in their field.
- Opportunity to contribute to the discovery and development of future music stars.
- Work in a vibrant, creative, and inspiring environment in the heart of Hollywood.
How to Apply
If you are a highly motivated student eager to kickstart your career in the music industry, we encourage you to apply! Please click on the application link below to submit your resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, tell us why you are passionate about A&R, what specific genres or artists excite you, and what you hope to gain from this internship. Ensure you clearly state your eligibility for college credit from your academic institution, including any requirements for credit. We look forward to reviewing your application and discovering your potential!