Freelance Writer / Investigative Journalist (Music-Focused) at Verge Monarch

Position Overview

We seek a creative and passionate writer to join our team as a freelance investigative journalist. This role focuses on uncovering compelling stories within the music industry, from local up-and-coming artists to major headlining acts. You will craft six dynamic articles per month, focusing on artists associated with Verge Monarch, including hip-hop, alternative, and EDM genres. However, we welcome coverage across all musical genres, ensuring a diverse and well-rounded perspective.

This position is perfect for someone who loves music, thrives on storytelling, and is excited to spotlight the creative processes and cultural impact of musicians, both locally and nationally. You’ll also have opportunities to attend live events, conduct interviews, and explore fresh angles on the music scene.

Responsibilities:

Your primary responsibility will be to deliver 6 high-quality, engaging articles each month (500–1,000 words each), following the structure below:

1. Local Focus (1 Article per month):

• Profile an Ohio-based musician, band, DJ, and producer.
• Explore their creative processes, upcoming projects, live performances, and notable achievements.
• Highlight the vibrancy and innovation within Ohio's music scene.

2. Mainstream Music Focus (1 Article per month):

• Write about a current trend, significant event, or major artist in the broader U.S. music scene.
• Example topics include a new album release, a cultural movement, a major tour, or an in-depth analysis of influential players in hip-hop, alternative, or EDM.

3. Event Coverage (1 Article per month):

• Attend and cover at least one music event per month (concert, festival, album release party, etc.).
• Write a detailed and engaging article capturing the energy and highlights of the event, including performances, audience reactions, and any backstage moments.

4. Writer’s Choice (3 Articles per month):

• Choose any topic within the music sphere that excites you.
• Examples: emerging genres, behind-the-scenes industry insights, music technology, or underrepresented voices in music.
• Bring your own unique perspective to the forefront.

General Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough research and interviews to produce authentic, well-rounded articles.
• Stay informed about music trends, particularly within Verge Monarch’s associated genres like hip-hop, alternative, EDM, and others.
• Articles must be original and written by you—AI tools may be used to edit grammar, but
• Deliver all articles on time, meeting editorial standards and word count requirements.
• Communicate regularly with the team to pitch ideas, discuss themes, and plan event coverage.

Why Join Us?

We are Verge Monarch, a dynamic media production platform specializing in creating impactful content and driving meaningful engagement. Our expertise spans social media content creation, professional marketing strategies, and collaborations with nonprofit organizations. While we focus heavily on the music industry—spotlighting artists, events, and creative processes—we also work with a diverse range of corporate clients, delivering tailored solutions that elevate their brands and messages.

Joining Verge Monarch means becoming part of a team that values creativity, innovation, and storytelling. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to an evolving platform that bridges the gap between artistic expression and professional excellence.

Apply now and let your writing amplify the music scene!

Qualifications:

• Exceptional writing and storytelling skills.
• Strong understanding of the music industry and its cultural impact.
• Passion for and knowledge of various music genres, especially hip-hop, alternative, EDM, and pop, with the flexibility to explore all types of music.
• Ability to conduct interviews and craft engaging, research-driven pieces.
• Self-motivated and deadline-oriented, with excellent communication skills.

Compensation:

• Contract: $1,000 for a 3-month term.
• Per Article: $50 per article for the initial six monthly articles.
• Additional articles beyond the contracted six will be compensated at $50 each.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $333.33 per month

Location:

• Columbus, OH (Franklin County) (Required)

Work Location: Remote