Choosing a career in entertainment can be both exciting and daunting. The entertainment and media industry in South Africa is experiencing impressive growth. In fact, PwC estimates that revenue will increase from R176.7 billion to R231.2 billion by 2027. The African music industry is growing at 25% annually, with South Africa accounting for over two-thirds of this growth. As the music industry is ever-expanding, so are the opportunities. For those looking to build a career in entertainment, below are several tips to consider when choosing a path in this dynamic industry.
- Understand industry trends
Before diving into a career in entertainment, you must first understand where the industry is headed. With the rise of over-the-top (OTT) media platforms like Netflix, Amazon, Disney, and Showmax, there is an increasing demand for content and the professionals who create it.
This trend is driving opportunities not just in music production but also in other segments such as audio-post engineering, videography, and cinematography.
- Explore diverse career options
The entertainment industry is vast, offering a range of career paths. Options to consider when looking to enter the industry include but not limited to:
- Music production: Opportunities extend beyond music performance to include producing music for OTT platforms. This offers steady royalty income.
- Audio-post engineering: High demand exists for audio engineers who can deliver international standards within tight deadlines.
- Talent management: Managing artists requires business acumen and strategic thinking. There is an urgent need for these roles in the South African music scene.
- Label management: As independent labels grow, professionals with creative and business skills will be essential to ensure good fiscal practices and operational excellence.
- Artist and Repertoire (A&R): Identifying and nurturing talent requires a keen marketing sense and an understanding of market trends.
- Live engineering, radio broadcast engineering, videography, cinematography, video editing, and scriptwriting are all growing fields within the entertainment ecosystem.
- Get the right education and skills
While raw talent is important, formal education can set you apart. Reputable institutions, such as Academy of Sound Engineering, provide not only technical skills but also essential business and marketing knowledge. This combination is vital for careers in talent management, label management, and A&R, where understanding market dynamics is key.
- Stay current with technology
Entertainment technology is constantly evolving. For instance, audio-post engineers in South Africa are now sought after by international OTT companies due to their high skill levels and competitive costs. Staying updated with the latest technology, whether in sound engineering, video editing, or radio broadcasting, will give you an edge.
- Build a strong network
Networking has become an indispensable skill to have in the entertainment sector. Collaborate with peers, seek mentorship, and engage with industry professionals by attending relevant conferences or workshops. Internships and work-integrated learning programmes offered by top institutions can provide invaluable industry connections.
A career in entertainment is both challenging and rewarding. With the industry set for continued growth, opportunities abound for those who are prepared. By understanding industry trends, exploring various career paths, acquiring the right education, staying current with technology, building a network, embracing business knowledge, and being adaptable, you can position yourself for success in this vibrant industry. South Africa’s growing entertainment landscape awaits those ready to take the leap.
