This book from the In Tune Library provides a rough guide for anybody who ever wanted to record a rock band in a studio or write CD reviews or even work on the legal side of the fence. The author talks about the options open to those interested in working in the music industry. There are sections here on

• Record Labels
• Music Publishing
• Distribution
• Recording and Production
• Media
• Education
• Concerts and Events
• Entrepreneurial
• Instruments and Equipment

Under the media section, where it describes what it takes to become a music journalist, there are bullet points that read

Are you ready to...

• Research potential stories and summarize them in a clear form?
• Conduct intervies that uncover new information?
• Understand the audience and tailor the story to their interests?
• Take direction on a story to make it appropriate for the media outlet in question?
• Juggle multiple writing prjects and work under tight deadlines?
• Pitch your story ideas to editors and producers? (Note: A journalist doesn't deal with producers--only musicians).
• Work on a freelance basis?
• See a story through necessary revisions?

It helps to...

• Have the ability to write clearly and concisely.
• Develop strong research skills.
• Cultivate a willingness to ask unexpected (and sometimes unwelcome) questions.
• Have strong time management skills.
• Be self-motivated and conscious of deadlines.
• Have the ability to make and maintain contacts, buid relationships and develop a network of sources.
• *Dedicate time to the disciple to documenting your work and supporting your conclusions.

You can learn the ropes by reading this book, but you'll have to pull yourself up by any methods that work for you. It's also important to understand that this book is meant primarily for high school and middle school students and young musicians. If your'e starting out in the business and need to know how to make the first step, this could be a valuable resource.