A&R and Manager Advice

Top Music Managers 2023

Top Music Managers 2023

Immerse yourself into the exhilarating world of top music managers this 2023! The music business, famously volatile and challenging, can be aced if you have the right people backing you. In this article, we'll give you the inside scoop about the movers and shakers in the music management arena, arguably as influential as the artists themselves.

Looking to write your next song? Transform your creative ideas into songs that people will love, and skyrocket your music career with Lyric Assistant. The perfect songwriting assistant. Find out more →

What Does a Music Manager Do?

Music management involves a complete range of duties that are vital to an artist's career. Here is what top music managers typically do:

  • Negotiate and secure lucrative contracts
  • Build and maintain industry relationships
  • Guide the artist's career development
  • Handle finances and legal issues

Top Music Managers 2023 to Look Out For

In the dynamic universe of music management, we have some standout stalwarts who are top of the line. Let’s take a peek into some of them.

1. Clarence Spalding

Maverick Management's Clarence Spalding has successfully helmed careers of country music giants like Brooks & Dunn and Jason Aldean. His strategic planning and mainstream industry penetration has made him a much sought-after music manager.

2. Jordan Feldstein

The late Jordan Feldstein, brother to actor Jonah Hill, was another heavy-weight in this industry. Before his untimely passing, he had pioneered the careers of Maroon 5 and Robin Thicke among others.

Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter

The ultimate songwriting tool that takes your creative vision to the next level! With just a few clicks, you can unleash your inner songwriter and craft a hit that's uniquely yours. Your song. You own it.

Example: Pop, Rock, Rap, Electronic, R&B, K-Pop, Drill...
Example: Happy, sad, inspirational, romantic, gritty...
Example: Love, loss, overcoming adversity, party, faith, personal growth, reflection...
Example: Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Grimes, Beyonce, Billie Eillish, Pink Floyd, BTS ...
A bridge is used to provide a new perspective or shift in your song's mood

3. Guy Oseary

Representing Madonna, U2 and Amy Schumer, Guy Oseary is known for his knack for finding talent and catapulting them into stardom.

4. Jonathan Dickins

Adele’s manager and founder of September Management, Jonathan Dickins continuously raises the bar in the world of music management.

Top Music Managers 2023 Example:

Whenever people recognise success in the music industry, they often attribute it to the artist's talent. While it's an undeniable element, a lot of what goes on behind the scenes should be credited to their music managers.

Adele & Jonathan Dickins: A Success Story

When Jonathan Dickins first signed Adele, she was an unknown artist from London. With his guidance, she grew as an international sensation, snagging numerous awards and landing on various prestigious music charts.

In the wildly unpredictable realm of music, having someone to navigate the path and guide you is key. The music managers we've discussed today have continued to shape the success stories of their artists. We must never underestimate the power and impact of these industry heavyweights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a music manager?

A music manager is a person who helps guide an artist's career in the music industry. The manager oversees various aspects of the artist's professional life including contract negotiations, marketing, business affairs, and career development.

Why is a good music manager important for artists?

A good music manager is crucial because they often help the artist navigate the complexities of the music industry, secure profitable deals, and create strategic plans to boost their career progress and artistic vision.

How does a music manager differ from a music agent?

A music manager typically has a more holistic role in an artist's career, focusing on the overall development and long-term strategy, whereas a music agent primarily deals with booking live performances and tours.

What characteristics should you look for in a top music manager?

Top music managers should have excellent communication skills, a deep understanding of the music industry, strong business acumen, a broad network of contacts, and a track record of success with other artists.

Can a music manager help with making an artist's music better?

While music managers are not directly involved in the creative process, their feedback and insights can influence decisions that affect the production, style, and delivery of the artist's music.

How are music managers compensated?

Music managers are typically compensated through a percentage of the artist's earnings, which usually ranges from 15-20%. This motivates the manager to work hard to increase the artist's success and revenue.

What contracts exist between a music manager and an artist?

Contracts between music managers and artists vary, but they usually outline the terms of their working relationship, compensation, duties, and the length of the agreement.

How can an artist find a reputable music manager?

Artists can find reputable music managers through networking, recommendations from other musicians, and industry directories. It's important to research potential managers' background and current roster before reaching out.

What does the manager's role involve regarding record deals?

The manager's role in record deals includes negotiating contract terms, seeking out favorable opportunities, advising the artist on decisions, and sometimes helping to ensure the contract aligns with the artist's career goals.

How important is it for a music manager to have connections in the industry?

It's very important for a music manager to have industry connections as it can open doors for collaborations, performance opportunities, and partnerships that an artist might not otherwise have access to.

Do music managers handle publicity and media relations?

While some music managers take on publicity and media relations, others may work in conjunction with or hire a dedicated publicist to handle those aspects of the artist's career.

Can a music manager help an artist get signed to a record label?

Yes, a good music manager can assist an artist in getting signed to a record label by leveraging their industry contacts, showcasing the artist's potential, and negotiating terms that benefit the artist.

What's the difference between a manager and a tour manager?

A manager deals with broader career strategy while a tour manager specifically handles the logistics and day-to-day affairs of live performances and tours.

Should an emerging artist get a music manager?

An emerging artist may seek a music manager when they've reached a point in their career where professional guidance could significantly propel their progress and they can afford to pay for the manager's services.

Can a music manager work with multiple artists at once?

Yes, music managers often work with several artists at a time, balancing their efforts across different careers. The key is that they must be able to effectively manage time and resources to support each artist appropriately.

What role does a music manager play in an artist's touring?

A music manager plays a crucial role in an artist's touring by planning tour strategies, booking shows, negotiating performance fees, and sometimes coordinating logistics with a tour manager.

How has the role of the music manager evolved with the rise of digital media?

With the rise of digital media, music managers now also focus on digital distribution, online promotion, social media management, and leveraging streaming platforms to enhance their artist's profile and revenue.

What are the challenges a music manager faces today?

Today's music managers face challenges such as the oversaturation of the market, the need to stay up-to-date with rapidly changing technologies and trends, and developing strategies that work in a predominantly digital music landscape.

Is it better for an artist to have a manager from a large firm or an independent manager?

The choice between a manager from a large firm or an independent manager depends on the artist's specific needs. Large firms may offer more resources, while independent managers might provide more personalized attention.

How do music managers find new talent?

Music managers find new talent by scouting at live shows, listening to online music platforms, receiving referrals from industry contacts, or through direct submissions from artists seeking management.

What are the signs of a bad music manager?

Signs of a bad music manager include poor communication, lack of transparency, unprofessional behavior, not having a clear strategy for the artist's growth, and failure to achieve agreed-upon goals or milestones.

If you're interested in learning more about the music industry or lyric writing, Lyric Assistant is here to help! Don't forget to share this article with your music-loving friends and explore more guides on our site.

Music Industry Insider 2024: The Ultimate Contact Database

Unlock the key to your music career. This game-changing resource puts over 3,000 of the most influential music industry contacts at your fingertips.

Connect directly with the top A&Rs, Music Managers, Producers, Record Labels & Booking Agents who can elevate your music to new heights. With all the content information you need, including email addresses and phone numbers. Don't just dream of success, make it a reality.

Embrace Music Industry Insider and open doors to limitless opportunities in your music journey.

trustpilot 1

Music Industry Insider 2024: The Ultimate Contact Database

Unlock the key to your music career. This game-changing resource puts over 3,000 of the most influential music industry contacts at your fingertips.

Connect directly with the top A&Rs, Music Managers, Producers, Record Labels & Booking Agents who can elevate your music to new heights. With all the content information you need, including email addresses and phone numbers. Don't just dream of success, make it a reality.

Embrace Music Industry Insider and open doors to limitless opportunities in your music journey.

trustpilot 1

author-avatar

About Toni Mercia

Toni Mercia is a Grammy award-winning songwriter and the founder of Lyric Assistant. With over 15 years of experience in the music industry, Toni has written hit songs for some of the biggest names in music. She has a passion for helping aspiring songwriters unlock their creativity and take their craft to the next level. Through Lyric Assistant, Toni has created a tool that empowers songwriters to make great lyrics and turn their musical dreams into reality.