"Diving into the pool of music without finding a manager who understands your vision, strengths, and goals is like setting sail into the vast ocean without any navigation tools. The article below explores why you need a manager as a music artist, how to choose the right one, and where to find them."
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Find a Manager for Music Table of Contents
Why Do You Need a Manager in Music?
It's common for upcoming artists to question the need for a manager, especially when on a tight budget. Managers, however, play a crucial role in propelling your music career in several ways:
- They represent you and your brand to industry professionals and audiences.
- They handle business aspects, allowing you to focus on perfecting your craft.
- They guide and navigate you through the complex music industry.
- They help with everything from booking tours to negotiating contracts, networking, and promotion.
Choosing the Right Manager
Your manager is essentially your partner on the journey to music stardom. It’s important to choose someone who aligns with your artistic vision and goals. Here’s what to consider when choosing a manager:
- Their knowledge and experience in the music business.
- Their reputation, integrity, and trustworthiness.
- Their compatibility with your style, goals, and personality.
- Their commitment, passion, and belief in your talent and potential.
Finding the Perfect Manager
Now that you understand the role and importance of a manager, how do you find one? Here are some strategies:
- Networking: Attend industry events, conferences, gigs, and festivals to meet industry professionals and prospective managers. Remember, the music industry thrives on relationships and connections.
- Professional platforms: Websites such as LinkedIn and Soundcloud are great platforms to connect with managers. You can also check artist management directories and music business websites for potential leads.
- Referrals: Artists in your network can recommend their managers if they find potential in your work.
- Manager-finding services: Some companies offer services to match artists with managers.
Find a Manager for Music Example:
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"Consider an artist like Lucy. She's a talented singer-songwriter, and she just completed her album but struggle with promoting her music. Lucy decided to find a manager, and after networking at local gigs and music conferences, she connected with Jake - a manager who had a reputation for boosting independent artists' careers. He understood Lucy's vision, shared her passion, was impressed by her talent, and committed to helping her reach new heights."
Searching for your perfect music manager becomes easier once you understand their role, what to look for, and where to find them. Remember, your manager is your career guide and advocate, so choose wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a music manager do?
A music manager plays a critical role in the career of an artist, handling the business aspects of the music industry so that the artist can focus on creating and performing music. This includes negotiating contracts, securing gigs, organizing tours, managing public relations, looking for record deals, and often advising the artist on career decisions and financial management.
When should I start looking for a manager?
An artist should consider looking for a manager when they have reached a point in their career where the business, promotional, and logistical tasks start to detract from their ability to focus on music. If you find yourself overwhelmed with the non-creative side of your career and see potential for growth, it might be time to start your search.
Where can I find a music manager?
Music managers can be found through networking at music industry events, through referrals from fellow musicians, social media, music manager directories, or by contacting established management firms that represent artists in your genre.
What should I look for in a manager?
Ideally, you want a manager with experience in the music industry who believes in your music. They should have a good track record, be well-connected, have strong communication and negotiation skills, and demonstrate a clear understanding of your artistic vision and career goals.
Can I manage my own music career?
Yes, many artists start by self-managing their careers. However, as your career progresses, the complexity and workload may become too much for one person, at which point it would be beneficial to seek a professional manager to help propel your career further.
How do I approach a potential manager?
Approach a potential manager professionally with a succinct and compelling pitch. Provide them with samples of your music, a biography, impressive achievements, and outline your goals. Be respectful of their time, and be clear about why you think they would be the right fit for you.
What is a fair compensation for a music manager?
Compensation varies, but a typical manager's cut is between 15% to 20% of your gross income. This includes earnings from record sales, performances, merchandising, and other revenue streams related to your music career. Discuss and agree upon compensation terms before formalizing any partnership.
How important are contracts in music management?
Contracts are essential in music management as they clearly delineate the responsibilities, expectations, compensation, duration, and terms of termination for both the artist and the manager. A contract helps to prevent misunderstandings and provides legal protection for both parties.
What are the red flags to watch out for when choosing a manager?
Be wary of managers who promise unrealistic outcomes, lack significant industry experience or connections, are not transparent with finances, demand high signing fees, or do not show a genuine interest and understanding of your music and brand.
Should a manager help with branding and image?
Yes, a good manager often assists with branding and image in line with your artistic vision. They may guide the artistic direction of marketing materials, public relations, and visual representation to ensure consistency and appeal to your target audience.
Can a manager terminate the contract?
Yes, either party can terminate the contract if the terms outlined in the agreement are not being met. Termination clauses are a standard part of a management contract and should specify under what conditions the contract can be ended by the manager or the artist.
Is it possible to change managers?
It is possible to change managers, and often an artist will have several managers over the course of their career. However, it's important to do so respectfully and legally, adhering to the terms described in your current management contract, including any notice periods or financial settlements.
Will a manager help with social media and online presence?
Many managers take an active role in helping develop an artist's social media strategy and online presence, recognizing the importance of these platforms for marketing and fan engagement. However, specific responsibilities should be discussed and agreed upon.
What if I can't afford a manager?
If you're not in a position to afford a manager, consider working with one on a commission basis, where they receive a percentage of your income instead of upfront fees. Alternatively, focus on building your career until you can attract the attention of a manager interested in growing with you.
Does a manager work with my record label?
A manager typically works closely with the artist's label, if available, to coordinate efforts on releases, marketing, and promotional activities. They act as a liaison between the artist and the label to ensure the artist’s interests are represented.
Should the manager have industry connections?
Yes, one of the most valuable assets a manager can offer is their network of industry connections. These connections can open doors to opportunities, such as performances, collaborations, and deals that might otherwise be hard to secure.
What kind of agreements are involved in music management?
Management agreements usually detail the scope of services provided, the duration of the partnership, the manager's compensation, and terms of termination. They can also include specific details such as who handles expenses, decision-making authority, and expectations for both parties.
How do I trust a manager with my career?
Building trust with a manager is a gradual process that involves clear communication, transparency, setting mutual goals, and reviewing their track record and reputation. Start with smaller commitments and as trust develops, you can increase their responsibilities.
Can a manager help me get a record deal?
While a manager is not responsible for getting you a record deal by default, their industry relationships and knowledge can significantly help in connecting you with labels and negotiating a deal that aligns with your career objectives.
What's the difference between an agent and a manager?
An agent typically focuses on booking live performances and may also deal with tours, appearances, and endorsements. In contrast, a manager deals with overall career strategy, including long-term planning, day-to-day administration, record releases, and team coordination.
How long does a typical management contract last?
The duration of a management contract varies and should be negotiated to suit both the manager's and the artist's needs. It can range from one year to several years, but it often includes stipulations that allow for an extension or termination under specific conditions.
We hope you found this guide helpful. Feel free to share it with others and explore more guides on the Lyric Assistant blog on improving your music career.
