To establish yourself in the music industry, you'll follow a route similar to that in the movie and publishing businesses. Learn to network, and don't make any enemies. The music business is like an extended family, complete with all the favoritism and the feuds. Internships are a good way to go, and you're likely to find paid opportunities at bigger labels. Insiders say it's hard to find your first job in the music industry, but after that, it's pretty easy to find work.
Personal relationships mean a lot in the music world, which can be a blessing and a curse.
If you're well liked, you'll go far. If not, you're going anywhere, insiders say. If you're lucky, you'll find a mentor to help you along the way. As in the movie business, you have to start out doing grunt work - unless you take a more corporate path. For example, with a law degree you can get hired in the legal department, get to know people, and eventually make the transition to the sexier areas of the business, such as producing, or representing talent.