News briefs should not exceed 400 words. Band previews stay between 150 and 250 words. Music features go anywhere from 450 to 850 words. And CD reviews hover around 300 words. Finally, none of this is dogma.
Some stories work best with a straight news lead, and good writers come from all walks.
We like distinctive voices, especially ones with attitude. Pay varies with the writer's experience and ability, amount of research required, dependability and how much editing the writer's submissions require. Those requiring less editing will earn higher pay and receive more assignments. We assume new writers will need more editing and pay accordingly. All stories are on spec, even assigned ones.