Graphic Design for Musicians: Music Industry Basics

Graphic Design for Musicians: How It Started

It may be difficult to imagine, but at one point in time, music and graphics were two completely separate entities. However, in 1939 Alex Steinweiss broke the mold and added illustrations to his albums. Up until this point, albums were packaged in plain white, brown, or tan paper. While Steinweiss was working for Colombia Records doing designs for advertisements, he came up with the idea to have custom artwork added to a record. Including graphic design for musicians revolutionized the music industry.

So, now that our history lesson is out of the way – let’s discuss different roles graphic design for musicians plays in the music industry.

Graphic Design for Musicians: The Roles

This isn’t the same music industry from the 1930s. In fact, this isn’t the same music industry from 10 years ago. With the ever changing landscape of music promotion and marketing, roles shift. As a result, graphic design for musicians is as necessary now than ever. Digital distribution and its popularity allow musicians and bands to release as much music as they want – whenever they want. That means there are a lot of opportunities for graphic work available.

Different ways to apply graphic design for musicians can be either physical or digital. Album covers are the most basic usage. In addition, branding and promotion material require graphic design in most cases. Regarding digital use of graphic design some examples you may see every day is content on social media pages. In most cases, a musician will either use an image or some sort of video to promote themselves for that day. Promotional videos can use graphics as well.

Physical examples of graphic design for musicians can be found all over. Walk around your local city – perhaps you will see a billboard or a poster. Prints such as flyers and even business cards require graphic design.

Graphic Design for Musicians: Get Paid

As you can see, there are many ways to make money with graphic design for musicians. Networking with musicians, bands, and labels is a great way to build your client base. Put together a portfolio aimed at musicians and keep it handy as well as keeping your social media up to date with your current work.

If you’re an artist yourself and looking for graphic design for musicians – look no further. Come get a free consultation and brand evaluation from ViewManiac today.