Overview
A&R assistants scout new talent, manage artist rosters, and coordinate between artists and the rest of the label. It is one of the most competitive entry points in the music industry, so candidates need to demonstrate genuine knowledge of emerging scenes and a track record of identifying talent before it breaks.
This resume belongs to Callum Price, a recent Music Business graduate from the University of Westminster. He completed a 4 month internship at Polydor Records and ran a student music blog that reviewed over 80 unsigned acts. His resume works because it pairs label experience with independent scouting that led to real outcomes.
What Makes This Resume Work
Scouted 3 unsigned artists who were subsequently signed. Callum identified 3 acts through grassroots gig attendance and online research, and 2 of those artists went on to sign development deals. This is the single most important thing an A&R resume can show: that you have ears and instincts that translate into commercial outcomes.
Managed a playlist with 14,000 followers. Curating a Spotify playlist that grew to 14,000 followers over 18 months proves Callum understands digital music consumption. Labels want A&R staff who can validate taste through data, and playlist growth is a measurable proxy for that ability.
Attended 60+ live shows during a 4 month internship. Going to gigs is the core of scouting work. Logging 60+ shows in 4 months across London venues like the Windmill, Moth Club, and the Lexington shows serious commitment and knowledge of the grassroots circuit that feeds major label signings.
Music blog with 35,000 monthly readers. Running a WordPress blog that featured interviews with 80+ unsigned artists and attracted consistent readership demonstrates writing ability, industry networking, and initiative. All three skills matter in A&R, where writing talent reports and building relationships with managers are daily tasks.
Key Takeaways
For junior A&R roles, your resume needs to prove you are already doing the job in some capacity. Name the venues you attend, the number of acts you have scouted, and any outcomes from your recommendations. If you run a playlist, blog, or radio show, include follower and listener numbers. Labels receive hundreds of applications for every A&R opening, so generic claims about being passionate about music will not stand out. Specific, quantified scouting activity will.
