Music Industry Internship Program

About Arson Theory

Arson Theory is a foremost music distribution company specializing in Heavy Music and Alternative genres. Founded by artists and industry veterans, we deliver artist-centric distribution, publishing, rights management, marketing, and artist development services. We collaborate with an expanding roster of independent artists, labels, and creative partners while shaping the next-generation music industry infrastructure.

Program Overview

This internship offers ambitious and detail-focused individuals an immersive opportunity to gain hands-on experience with real artist projects, release campaigns, catalogs, and industry operations. Working directly alongside our team, interns gain insights into the daily activities essential for fostering artist careers in today’s music landscape.

Internship Departments and Responsibilities

• A&R: Conduct research on emerging artists, producers, labels, and musical trends; assess potential distribution, label, or publishing prospects; review music submissions and maintain organized internal notes; facilitate artist onboarding and release preparations; aid in roster and project research; manage artist, manager, and industry contact databases.
• Publishing: Assist with music publishing administration including songwriter relations, catalog management, registrations, royalty collections, and synchronization research; manage song and catalog data; review songwriter splits, metadata, and ownership details; support catalog registrations and administrative tasks; organize publishing documentation.
• Marketing: Support artist campaign planning, release strategies, social media, content creation, audience analysis, and promotional efforts; research audience trends, comparable artists, and digital platforms; maintain social media calendars and assist in content development; prepare campaign materials and performance reports; help with playlist, press, influencer, and community outreach.
• Rights Management: Engage in operations related to digital and neighboring rights, royalty collection, metadata management, content identification, and catalog protection; review metadata and organize catalogs; research ownership, licensing, and rights information; support platforms like YouTube, Meta, SoundExchange, and related workflows; examine potential ownership disputes; organize royalty and usage data; maintain internal rights management records.

Candidate Profile

• Deep enthusiasm for music and intent to build an industry career
• Acquainted with Heavy Music, Alternative, or related genres
• Highly organized, reliable, and capable of managing multiple tasks
• Comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Meticulous attention to detail and readiness to learn new systems/processes
• Proactive, resourceful, and confident taking initiative
• Professionalism in handling confidential artist and business information

Prior music industry experience is not required; primary qualities sought include sound judgment, curiosity, strong work ethic, and a passion for growth.

Learning Outcomes and Benefits

• Direct involvement with active artist projects, releases, and campaigns
• Mentorship from experienced professionals in the music industry
• Practical skill and professional experience development
• Networking opportunities with music and entertainment industry stakeholders
• Exposure to diverse facets of the contemporary music business
• Participation in an artist-first company aligned with long-term artist development

Additional Information

This program is offered at Arson Theory’s locations in Los Angeles, Nashville, Minneapolis, and New York. Applications require a résumé, current location, preferred department (A&R, Publishing, Marketing, or Rights Management), and a brief introduction outlining background, career interests, and motivation for interning with Arson Theory. Applicants are encouraged from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about music and eager to contribute.