BUILDING A MUSIC CAREER BEYOND LA, LONDON, NEW YORK & NASHVILLE.

As someone who spent years in London’s music industry and now lives in the US, I’ve met so many women who feel that opportunities outside major hubs are dwindling and the industry is narrowing. They’re passionate about music, deeply connected to their hometowns and communities, yet the industry’s centralisation around LA, NYC, and Nashville leaves them feeling like they have to choose between their dreams and their roots.

While the pandemic initially opened doors for remote work, the music industry hasn’t embraced this shift, moving back towards office-based roles and limiting consulting options for anyone outside these big hubs. On top of that, recent layoffs are disproportionately hitting women hard. These women who are now looking to consult or collaborate from smaller cities are often expected to travel frequently to “stay relevant,” which can be exhausting, costly and unsustainable.

But there’s good news, you don’t have to move if you want to have a successful career in music.

There are a number of things that I’ve found very helpful and that I always recommend to the clients that I work with. I’ve seen them work again and again, and they help keep my clients relevant and grow their career.

These are three non-negotiables that I recommend if you want to stay rooted whilst growing your career:

1. Strengthen local networks with community venues, radio, and colleges. Thriving local scenes can draw attention beyond the big cities.

2. Establish a strong digital presence: Consistent posts on LinkedIn, Instagram, and other industry forums keep you visible, even if you’re physically distant. Share your journey, your work, and what makes your approach unique.

3. Advocate for remote options—the industry can be more inclusive if we push for change. Push for remote-friendly roles, showcase the value of diversity in location, and support each other in shifting outdated mindsets.

What advice would you give women facing this challenge? Or what’s one step you’re taking to build your career from where you are?

If you are a woman impacted by this and want some help contact me here.

#womeninmusic #musiccareers #inclusiveindustry