Writing songs, studio recording sessions, meetings with record labels, keeping track of cash flow and other stuff are routine of musicians. The world of music is undoubtedly exciting, but handling all these tasks as an artist will wear you down rapidly.
Hence, in running any successful music project, every artist needs a music manager. While you’re focusing on what you do best, music managers are responsible for building industry relationships, anticipating problems, and developing long-term strategies to ensure your music career is successful.
This guide will give you crucial information about everything there’s to know about music management. Read on!
Who Exactly is a Music Manager?
A music manager isn’t just a dude who books gigs for you, they are the anchor of your music career, responsible for all other aspects while you focus on making music. They are your spokesman for you in the industry, negotiating deals, managing schedules, and bringing the right opportunities to you.
In other words, a music manager is a professional who is responsible for planning and executing every strategic decision in the professional journey of a music artist. They are responsible for music production, promotion, branding, revenue, and other creative aspect of music.
The Role of a Music Manager in Your Career
The role a music manager plays is hugely dependent on the career phase of the artist, but their primary function is still to help you achieve your goals as a successful music artist.
- The first and most important role of a music manager is to be the public representative of an artist. They are in charge of working with partners and negotiating deals on behalf of the artist. This job requires making decisions oftentimes without the artist’s awareness. This relationship is built on trust as an artist has to rely on their manager’s judgment.
- A music manager is also responsible for artistic direction. They coordinate track and video releases, concert production, and tours. The manager utilizes his industry contacts to bring opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable to you.
- The essence of management is to ensure continuity. A manager handles all administrative tasks connected to an artist’s career. They handle logistics such as scheduling, booking, handling cash-flows, and other important aspects to keep their artist career on track.
Get the promotion you need now, because without it, that music manager you’ve been hoping for might never come knocking.
How much do music managers charge?
All music managers work on a percentage commission. The standard cut is within the range of 15% to 25% of an artist’s total revenue. The exact payment details vary with the expectation of the artist and depend on the agreement reached during negotiation.
The percentage commission is a critical factor when deciding to hire a manager, as it is unreasonable to give up a huge cut of your revenue unless the manager will help improve revenue through his strategies.
When will I need a music manager?
Music artists will need a manager when their fanbase is massive enough to require strategic long-term planning. Immediately an artist reaches a certain level of exposure with their music, they will be presented with creative and business opportunities, which will require professional scrutiny from experts. That’s when you know it’s high time you hired a music manager.
Finding a manager might not be the best option if you’re starting your music journey. Gaining more exposure to your music should be your priority.
How to Find a Music Manager
If you’ve gotten a large loyal following it’s time to begin the next phase of your music career. How do you find a good manager? Although there is no established procedure for hiring a music manager, here are ideas you can consider when hiring.
- The first step is researching and engaging with managers and music management companies that are relevant to your music. While you’re interacting with them on social media, note their contact info.
- Have a good relationship with other artist, and music professionals. They may recommend a music manager that might be a good fit for you.
- As you grow as a musician and perform at bigger concerts, it is also possible to make an impression on a music manager who’s present and he might decide to reach out.
A Short Overview of Music Management Companies
Music management companies are another alternative for an artist to seek guidance through their careers. Management companies like The Temple Management Company offer their expertise in securing gigs, logistic handling, and career planning.
Music management companies focus on connecting artists with deals, and music promoters amongst others. For young artists, working with these management companies will guarantee industry connections.
Let Us Help Your Grow Your Brand
Having read this, you must be dreaming of a music manager to take your career to the next level. The truth is, without solid promotion on YouTube and streaming platforms, you might never catch their eye.
Don’t let your talent go unnoticed—promote your music now, or risk staying in the shadows. Make your move today, and get the attention your music deserves.
