News Pick
Gen Z Musicians Don’t Wait for Record Labels to Kickstart Careers
Young creatives are leveraging digital platforms to build music careers on their own terms
Young creatives are leveraging digital platforms to build music careers on their own terms
Published
3 months agoon
By
Mahima Gupta
For today’s young creatives, waiting for a big break or an established record label isn’t the only path to success. Gen Z musicians, artists, and content creators are taking matters into their own hands – sharing work online, collaborating with peers, and building audiences independently.
The Power of Digital Platforms
Social platforms have completely changed the game. Students no longer need traditional gatekeepers to showcase their talent. They can upload content, get feedback, and connect with fans from anywhere in the world. This instant accessibility empowers young creatives to experiment, learn, and grow their careers on their own terms.
A Real-Life Example
Apeejay School, Pitampura alumna Mrinali Gulati is a prime example of this new approach. While she started with school performances and encouragement from her teachers, she didn’t wait for a music label to notice her. “There was a YouTube channel of a friend’s studio, and I uploaded a song. People started liking it, and that’s when I created my own channel,” she recalls.
Her early initiative paid off. Today, Mrinali has over 100,000 subscribers on YouTube and performs at live shows across India. “School was the first place where I felt free to explore my passion, and that support shaped who I am today,” she adds.

Gen Z’s approach teaches an important lesson: waiting for external validation isn’t necessary. With consistent practice, creativity, and the right guidance, young artists can launch careers independently. Mentorship, online communities, and self-discipline all play critical roles in helping students turn their passion into a profession, even without traditional backing.
For Gen Z, the idea of waiting for a record label is quickly becoming outdated. By leveraging digital platforms, exploring independent avenues, and seeking guidance from mentors, students can take charge of their careers early. Mrinali’s journey demonstrates that with passion, discipline, and initiative, young creatives don’t have to wait, they can start shaping their futures today.
Meet Mahima, a Correspondent at Apeejay Newsroom, and a seasoned writer with gigs at NDTV, News18, and SheThePeople. When she is not penning stories, she is surfing the web, dancing like nobody's watching, or lost in the pages of a good book. You can reach out to her at [email protected]