As part of our Horizon Future Leaders series of interviews, we are connecting with the music industry’s next generation of leaders to gather candid advice and insights into their career journeys.
This week we spoke with Rachel June, Music Editor at ASBO Magazine - a platform championing boundary-pushing creativity, authentic storytelling and the next wave of music talent.
In her role, Rachel spends her days discovering new sounds, spotlighting emerging artists and leading a team of passionate writers who bring ASBO’s music coverage to life across print and digital.
Rachel’s journey into music journalism is a testament to doing what you love, even when others tell you not to. From livestreaming at her local church to studying media and taking on free creative projects, she learned early on that hands-on experience and community connection were key to growth.
Her openness, persistence and ability to build meaningful relationships have carried her from volunteering gigs to editing one of the UK’s most exciting independent magazines.
For those starting out, Rachel’s advice is simple but powerful: say yes. Go to that event, send that email, meet that person. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and lift you higher - because, as she puts it, “it’s not just about the work you put in, it’s about the people you surround yourself with”.
👇 Keep reading for Rachel’s reflections on creativity, connection and why trusting your gut (and your community) is the key to building a lasting career in music media.
What’s your current role in the music industry?
I’m the Music Editor for ASBO Magazine.
What does your general day to day look like?
My job is to find new music! I connect with artists, listen to music, explore new cities and find new sounds, and feature artists for the magazine. I manage the wonderful creative journalists who interview artists and get content for online and print.
What steps did you take early in your career to gain experience and build skills to get you where you are now?
I volunteered at church doing digital livestreams, which gave me great experience with managing a team and working equipment. At uni, I studied what I was best at at college and school, which happened to be media. Many people told me it was an awful industry, but I thought... I want to do something I love.
You must be open to free work to build your portfolio and give you a network. Working part time alongside this helps keep you afloat. The best way I learned was to get stuck in!
What opportunities did you explore early on that were particularly valuable?
The most valuable opportunities have been to connect with people in the industry. The more people you meet, the more opportunities come your way. Be kind, professional and set healthy boundaries like working patterns (and stick to it if you can!)
Has the opportunity landscape changed since then?
Yes - because I have a good network the opportunities can come, but it’s still good to stick to your roots and your gut. It’s easy to be swayed but be confident in your abilities and trust your own judgement.
Are there any specific internships, projects, or initiatives that you would recommend to newcomers looking to pursue a similar role?
Intern at ASBO Magazine! Go to gigs and festivals for free, build your portfolio and get your work out there. Reach out and email projects that catch your eye. You never know where it might lead.
What advice do you have for building and leveraging a professional network in the music industry?
The music industry is really difficult, because it’s full of passionate people but it’s hard to make a living. My advice would be to say YES. Go to that event and surround yourself with likeminded people. Supporting one another is what makes it happen.
How has the evolving digital landscape impacted your role, and where do you focus to stay ahead?
Social media is all part and parcel. I network mainly through Instagram. I shut my socials off at 8pm and keep a private Insta to separate work from personal life. To stay ahead, I like to get young people involved who know more about TikTok than me... play to your strengths and notice strengths in others.
What trends or changes do you see on the horizon for the music industry, and how can early career professionals prepare for them?
I see a lot of “anti-industry” structures and a spotlight on real talent, creativity and really really good music in 2025. I love that people are coming together and promoting each other.
I’d say advice wise, I’ll quote Jake from the band Deadwax, as he said it best, “make your art and say it with chest”. Learn from those around you by asking people questions so we can all be inspired by one another! Also, don’t base your success off social media likes.
If you love what you do and believe in it - keep going!
What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you at the start of your career?
It’s not all about the work you put in, it’s about the people you surround yourself with.