Choosing the right music manager can propel your music career to new heights. They are the linchpin that connects you to the wider music industry, helping you make strategic decisions and negotiate deals. Especially in a competitive city like Los Angeles. But who are the best music managers in Los Angeles? Keep reading to find out.
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Best Music Managers in Los Angeles Table of Contents
Identifying a Good Music Manager
The Role of a Music Manager
Before we delve into the best music managers in Los Angeles, it's vital to understand the essence of a music manager's role. Your music manager will be responsible for running your business affairs, leaving you the time to focus purely on your art. While artists must ultimately make the final decisions, having expert advice on hand makes it easier to navigate the complex music industry.
Identifying a Good Music Manager
Do they have solid industry relationships? This might be a deal-breaker in a city like Los Angeles, which is dotted with celebrities, record labels, and music events.
- Passionate about your music: They should be genuinely interested in your work.
- Business Savvy: The music industry is just as much about business as it is about art.
- Well Connected: The best managers have strong relationships within the music industry.
Best Music Managers in Los Angeles
1. Scooter Braun
Scooter Braun, the manager of many renowned artists such as Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and G-Eazy.
2. Lou Taylor
Lou Taylor is another reputable name in the industry. As the CEO of TriStar Sports and Entertainment, she manages artists such as Britney Spears and Jennifer Lopez.
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3. Brandon Creed
Brandon Creed is the skilled manager behind the success of Bruno Mars and Lana Del Rey. As the founder of The Creed Company, he has been instrumental in the careers of numerous artists.
Best Music Managers in Los Angeles Example:
For a young budding artist in Los Angeles, getting a music manager like Scooter Braun or Brandon Creed might change their career trajectory. Imagine a singer-songwriter who just signed a deal with Brandon Creed. With his vast network and knowledge of the music industry, he could provide opportunities that the artist could never have negotiated on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the roles of a music manager in Los Angeles?
Music managers in Los Angeles play a crucial role in the careers of artists and bands. They help with the strategic planning of an artist’s career, negotiate contracts, secure deals, organize schedules, and often act as a liaison between the artist and the music industry professionals such as labels, promoters, booking agents, and publicists.
How do I find a reputable music manager in Los Angeles?
Reputable music managers can be found through networking in the industry, attending music events, referrals from other musicians, or searching industry directories and listings. It's important to do thorough research and potentially interview several managers before deciding who is the best fit for your music career.
What should I look for when choosing a music manager?
When choosing a music manager, look for someone with a proven track record, good industry connections, a clear understanding of your genre, and a passion for your music. It’s also important that they have strong communication skills, are trustworthy, and have a compatible personality with yours.
Are there different types of music managers?
Yes, there are several types of music managers, including personal managers who handle all aspects of an artist's career, business managers who focus on financial aspects, and tour managers who are responsible for organizing tours and live performances.
Can a music manager help with getting a record deal?
Yes, a skilled music manager can help artists get a record deal by using their connections in the industry to introduce artists to record labels, assist with demo submissions, and negotiate contracts on the artist’s behalf.
What percentage does a music manager typically take?
A music manager typically takes between 15% to 20% of an artist’s earnings. This can vary depending on the manager's level of experience and the specifics of their agreement with the artist.
Is it important for a music manager to be based in Los Angeles?
While it’s not essential for a music manager to be based in Los Angeles, it can be beneficial due to the concentration of music industry professionals, events, and opportunities that exist in the city. The proximity to these resources can be advantageous for an artist's career.
How long does it typically take to find the right music manager?
Finding the right music manager can take time, sometimes several months or even years. It's a personal and professional relationship that requires finding someone who is not only competent but also meshes well with the artist's style and vision.
Should I sign a contract with a music manager?
Yes, it is highly advisable to have a written contract with your music manager. This ensures that both parties have clear expectations and understandings of their roles, responsibilities, and compensation. Always have a lawyer review the contract before signing.
What if a music manager isn't delivering the promised results?
If a music manager isn’t delivering promised results, it’s important to communicate your concerns directly and professionally. If the situation does not improve after discussing your expectations, you may need to consider ending the partnership as outlined in your contract.
Can I have more than one music manager?
While it's more common to have a single main music manager, an artist can have different managers for different aspects of their career, such as a separate tour manager or business manager, provided this is agreed upon and structured properly within the contracts.
Do music managers work with independent artists?
Many music managers do work with independent artists to help them navigate the music industry, build their brand, and grow their careers without the backing of a major record label.
What qualities make a great music manager?
A great music manager should have in-depth knowledge of the music industry, strong organizational and communication skills, resilience, a supportive attitude, and the ability to foresee and capitalize on opportunities.
How involved should a music manager be in creative decisions?
A music manager can provide valuable input on creative decisions, but the extent of their involvement can vary widely depending on the artist's preferences. It's crucial to have clear boundaries and understandings about each party's role in creative processes.
Is it realistic to find a well-connected music manager as an emerging artist?
Yes, it is possible for emerging artists to find well-connected music managers. However, it often requires demonstrating potential for success, a good work ethic, and an engaging portfolio of work to attract a reputable manager.
What can I do to make myself more attractive to top music managers?
To attract top music managers, focus on building a strong portfolio, cultivate a loyal fan base, showcase your talent through live performances and recordings, maintain a professional image, and demonstrate a clear vision for your career.
Should I trust a music manager who promises too much too quickly?
Be cautious of music managers who promise too much too quickly, as these claims may be unrealistic. It's vital to conduct due diligence, ask for references, and ensure their promises are backed by credible plans and actions.
How can a music manager help with branding?
A music manager can help with branding by working with the artist to develop a unique image, style, and messaging that resonates with the target audience. They can also assist in implementing the branding strategy across promotional materials, social media, and merchandising.
Will a music manager handle my social media presence?
Some music managers will handle or oversee an artist's social media presence as part of their overall strategy to build the artist’s brand and engage with fans. However, this can vary depending on the manager and their areas of expertise.
Can a music manager assist with tour planning and logistics?
Yes, music managers often help with tour planning and logistics, including booking venues, setting up performances, and coordinating travel and accommodations. They work closely with tour managers if one is involved.
What happens if I want to change music managers?
If you decide to change music managers, refer to your contract's termination clause to understand the proper procedure and any requirements for ending the agreement. It is important to part ways professionally to maintain a positive reputation in the industry.
How can I measure the success of my music manager?
Success can be measured by evaluating the achievement of set goals, such as securing deals, increasing bookings, or growing your fan base. Regularly reviewing these accomplishments together can help ensure the relationship remains productive and goals are aligned.
Pursuing a career in music can be thrilling but filled with challenges. And finding the perfect music manager in Los Angeles might be the step to overcome these. By doing your research and being persistent, you might soon find yourself on a list like this as a success story. If you enjoyed this article and found it helpful, please share it with your friends. For more insights into the music industry, continue exploring the Lyric Assistant blog and learn more about our AI songwriting assistant.
