My First Job in Music: Alexis Burke
Every month, Queer Capita highlights LGBTQ+ Music Industry Leaders through our series, My First Job in Music.
We continue the series with Alexis Burke (She/Her/Hers), the Digital Campaign Manager at Redeye Worldwide. Based in New York City, Alexis brings a unique perspective to the music industry, having transitioned from a career as an elementary school teacher into music. Alexis reflects on the importance of giving yourself time to develop your skills, find your niche, and build meaningful connections within your community. She shares gratitude for the mentors who helped guide her early career, and emphasizes the value of staying curious, thinking beyond traditional career paths, and nurturing the interests that brought you to the industry in the first place. Above all, Alexis reminds us that patience and grace are essential—and sometimes, when things get overwhelming, the best thing you can do is put on a really great album.
Read about other LGBTQ+ Music Industry Leaders and Allies in our community.
What was your first job in music?
My first full time position in music was on the Client Services team at The Orchard. I’m so grateful to have started there. I learned so much during my time there and found out that I love working in distribution. I used to be an elementary school teacher, so I had a lot to learn. Thankfully my managers at the time, Ben Griffin and Riker Griffiths, really supported my growth and I learned a lot from them.
Who was someone who supported you to help you get your start in your career?
There were so many people to be honest! Ben Goldberg of Ba Da Bing Records really supported me when it came to finding my first full-time job in the industry. Ba Da Bing was my first music internship, and when it came time to look for a gig in the industry Ben really helped me network and think outside of the box of what my career could look like. He is a great example of doing what you love and staying indie.
What was a lesson you learned at the start of your career that you still carry with you?
It will take time to develop your skills and expertise and find your niche in the industry. I’m not sure if it was because music was my second career, but I remember feeling really behind my peers and stressed about not being where I thought I should be (whatever that means). If I could go back, I’d tell myself to slow down, learn everything you can where you are, and stay connected to your local scene and community.
What was your favorite memory from your first job?
Teams would rotate days in-office once it reopened during the pandemic. On our in-office team days we’d just put on an amazing queue of music as we worked and sang along. I remember at that moment feeling very grateful to be doing what I love and working alongside some really talented people.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Have patience, have grace for yourself, and grace for others. Things take time. Stay curious and connected to what originally interested you about working in this industry and nurture that outside of work. When things feel overwhelming, difficult, and confusing, put on a really really great album. You’ll feel better. Music is a salve.
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