MUSIC GRANT INC

Understanding Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers

The independent artists, writers, and performers industry encompasses a diverse array of freelance professionals who are actively engaged in the creation and performance of artistic and cultural works. This includes individuals involved in artistic productions, the development of original works, and the provision of essential technical support necessary for such endeavors. Additionally, this industry encompasses athletes and celebrities who specialize in product endorsements and public speaking engagements, for which they receive compensation.

North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

T = Canadian, Mexican, and United States industries are comparable.

711510 Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers

This industry comprises independent (i.e., freelance) individuals primarily engaged in performing in artistic productions, in creating artistic and cultural works or productions, or in providing technical expertise necessary for these productions. This industry also includes athletes and other celebrities exclusively engaged in endorsing products and making speeches or public appearances for which they receive a fee.

This comprehensive overview serves to clarify the roles and contributions of independent artists, writers, and performers, highlighting their significance in the cultural landscape.

Illustrative Examples:

Independent actors or actresses
Independent producers
Independent art restorers
Independent recording technicians
Independent artists (except musical, commercial, medical)
Independent speakers
Independent cartoonists
Independent theatrical costume designers
Independent dancers
Independent theatrical lighting technicians
Independent journalists
Independent technical writers

Cross-References.

  • Freelance musicians and vocalists are classified in Industry 711130, Musical Groups and Artists;

  • Independent commercial artists, medical illustrators, and graphic designers are classified in Industry 541430, Graphic Design Services; and

  • Artisans and craftspersons are classified in Sector 31-33, Manufacturing.

NAICS 711510: Corresponding Index Entries


  • Actors, independent

  • Actresses, independent

  • Animated cartoon artists, independent

  • Announcers, independent radio and television

  • Art restorers, independent

  • Artists (except musical, commercial, medical), independent

  • Artists (i.e., painters), independent

  • Authors, independent

  • Ballet dancers, independent

  • Cameramen, independent (freelance)

  • Cartoonists, independent

  • Celebrity spokespersons, independent

  • Choreographers, independent

  • Cinematographers, independent

  • Comedians, independent

  • Composers, independent

  • Conductors, independent

  • Conservators (i.e., art, artifact restorers), independent

  • Costume designers, independent theatrical

  • Dancers, independent

  • Directors (i.e., film, motion picture, music, theatrical), independent

  • Directors, independent motion picture

  • Directors, independent music

  • Dancers, independent

  • Directors (i.e., film, motion picture, music, theatrical), independent

  • Directors, independent motion picture

  • Directors, independent music

  • Film actors, independent

  • Film producers, independent

  • Folk dancers, independent

  • Ghost writers, independent

  • Independent museum exhibit designers

  • Independent technical writers

  • Interpretive dancers, independent

  • Jazz dancers, independent

  • Journalists, independent (freelance)

  • Lecturers, independent

  • Lighting technicians, theatrical, independent

  • Magicians, independent

  • Models, independent

  • Motion picture directors, independent

  • Motion picture producers, independent

  • Motivational speakers, independent

  • Music arrangers, independent

  • Music directors, independent

  • News correspondents, independent (freelance)

  • Newspaper columnists, independent (freelance)

  • Orchestra conductors, independent

  • Painters (i.e., artists), independent

  • Painting restorers, independent

  • Performers (i.e., entertainers), independent

  • Performing artists, independent

  • Photographers, independent artistic

  • Photojournalists, independent (freelance)

  • Playwrights, independent

  • Poets, independent

  • Political cartoonists, independent

  • Producers, independent

  • Radio commentators, independent

  • Record producers, independent

  • Recording technicians, independent

  • Reporters, independent (freelance)

  • Scenery designers, independent theatrical

  • Screenplay writers, independent

  • Script writers, independent

  • Sculptors, independent

  • Set designers, independent theatrical

  • Sketch artists, independent

  • Songwriters, independent

  • Speakers, independent

  • Special effect technicians, independent

  • Sports announcers, independent

  • Stage set (e.g., concert, motion picture, television), erecting and dismantling, independent

  • Stand-up comedians, independent

  • Storytellers, independent

  • Taxidermists, independent

  • Technical writers, independent

  • Television producers, independent

  • Wildlife artists, independent

  • Writers of advertising copy, independent

  • Writers, independent (freelance)

The Essence of Artistry in Every Individual

Artists and creators are individuals who engage in the practice of producing original works that convey ideas, emotions, or narratives, utilizing various mediums such as visual arts, literature, music, and performing arts. They are often characterized by their ability to innovate and express creativity, thereby making significant contributions to the development of culture and society.

At Music Grant Inc., we are committed to supporting a diverse range of artists and creatives beyond the scope of NAICS 711510. This includes professionals such as tattoo artists, mixologists, culinary experts, lash technicians, nail technicians, and cosmetologists. We are committed to acknowledging the increasing influence of social media influencers and gamers in the creative landscape. It is important to acknowledge that individuals from any occupation or industry possess the potential to be considered artists.  Creativity can manifest in diverse forms, enabling professionals across various fields to express artistry in their work, whether through design, problem-solving, communication, or other avenues. Thus, the essence of artistry is not confined to traditional definitions but is accessible to all who seek to create and inspire.

Supporting Independent Entities Beyond NAICS 711510

The Essence of Artistry in Every Individual

Supporting Independent Entities Beyond NAICS 711510

Tattoo Artist

A tattoo artist is a licensed professional who specializes in the application of permanent designs on the human skin through the use of a needle and ink. This role demands a high level of artistic proficiency to create a variety of images, words, and symbols that function not only as decorative elements but also as expressions of individuality. An essential aspect of this profession includes engaging in consultations with clients to understand their preferences, formulating design concepts, and executing these designs with precision and technical mastery, all while adhering to stringent hygiene standards.

Gamer 

A "Gamer" is defined as an individual who engages in playing video games or participating in role-playing games.

Social Media Influencer 

A Social Media Influencer is an individual who has cultivated a substantial following across various social media platforms, such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Messenger, QQ, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, Telegram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, WeChat, Snapchat, Reddit, and Discord. OnlyFans, a British subscription-based video-on-demand service, also qualifies as a significant network in this arena. Influencers leverage their platforms to promote products, services, or ideas, creating engaging content while building a niche audience. Through collaborative efforts with brands, they aim to extend their reach and impact.

Types of Social Media Influencers: 

  • Mega-Influencers:  Individuals with over 1 million followers, often comprising celebrities or prominent internet personalities with a wide-ranging audience.

  • Macro-Influencers:  Those who typically have a following between 50,000 and 1 million followers.

  • Micro-Influencers:  Individuals possessing a following of 5,000 to 50,000 followers, often regarded as more credible due to their specialized focus and enhanced engagement with their audience.

  • Nano-Influencers:  Individuals with a following of under 5,000, celebrated for their close-knit, community-driven approach and meaningful connections with their audience.

Social Media Platforms in Asia


In Asia, social media platforms play a crucial role in connecting individuals and fostering creativity. Alongside global giants like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, regional platforms such as WeChat, Sina Weibo, and Douyin are immensely popular in specific areas. These platforms serve not only as social networking sites but also as vital avenues for independent artists to showcase their work and connect with their audiences.

Here’s a list of these platforms, with those marked by an asterisk (*) being the same as in the USA:

  • Baidu Tieba 

  • Bilibili 

  • Douban 

  • Douyin 

  • Discord* 

  • Facebook* 

  • Instagram* 

  • Kuaishu 

  • LINE 

  • LinkedIn* 

  • Nextdoor 

  • OnlyFans 

  • Pinterest* 

  • Reddit* 

  • Sina Weibo 

  • SnapChat 

  • Telegram 

  • Threads* 

  • TikTok* 

  • Twitch* 

  • Twitter* 

  • Tumblr*

  • WeChat* 

  • Xiaohongshu 

  • Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) 

  • Youku 

  • YouTube* 

  • Zhihu 

At Music Grant Inc., we support Independent artists, writers, and performers on these platforms, recognizing their potential to create and inspire. From gamers to social media influencers, every individual has the opportunity to express their artistry and reach audiences through these diverse channels.

To explore the full extent of our support offerings, please complete our inquiry form. Your creativity is valuable, and we look forward to assisting you on your artistic journey.