A&R and Manager Advice

Best Sites to Find New Music as a Manager

Best Sites to Find New Music as a Manager

Always on the lookout for the next big hit? That’s the key role of a music manager. Discovering and promoting fresh, compelling music artists is no small feat. Keeping a pulse on the dynamic world of music requires navigating between countless sites in a seemingly never-ending quest. But fret no more! This guide to the best sites to find new music will streamline your pursuit, unearthing exciting talent that can enrich your music management portfolio.

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1. SoundCloud

This platform allows users to share and promote music organically. It's the perfect spot to discover artists before they get signed. With its user-friendly interface, anyone can upload their sounds, making it a vast library of new tunes and raw talent.

2. Bandcamp

For indie artists and labels, Bandcamp is a go-to destination. This site encourages musicians to promote and share their work, creating an easy way for managers to discover new talent.

3. Spotify's Fresh Finds Playlist

Spotify's Fresh Finds playlist features independent artists and fresh tracks. It's an unrivaled tool for music managers seeking to curate and scout new talent.

4. YouTube Channels

Channels such as Colors, Vevo DSCVR, and BBC Music Introducing are excellent sources for finding emerging talent. These channels promote artists who are on the cusp of breaking into the music scene.

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5. Social Media Platforms

Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are also rich in uncovered talent. Emerging musicians often use these platforms to share their work and generate a following.

Best Sites to Find New Music as a Manager Example:

Here is a real-world instance of how you can use these platforms effectively. Say you're interested in managing artists in the pop genre.

You might start your day by exploring SoundCloud's Pop category, where aspiring pop artists from around the world post their tracks. This could lead you to an up-and-coming band from London whose music resonates with you. After reviewing their engagement metrics on SoundCloud, you head over to their Bandcamp page where you find their full-length album.

With the band's name and songs in hand, you now search for the band's presence on YouTube and Spotify. You find a live session on YouTube and several tracks on the Fresh Finds playlist. The clips help you gauge their live performance skills and presence. Finally, you could visit their social media to understand their fan base and online interaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important for a manager to find new music?

Finding new music is crucial for a manager as it helps to stay ahead in the competitive music industry. It allows a manager to discover new talent, stay current with musical trends, and provide fresh content for clients or audiences. It also opens opportunities for collaboration and innovation within the industry.

What are some key features to look for in a site for finding new music?

Key features that are important include a wide variety of genres, user-friendly interface, options for personalized recommendations, high-quality audio streams, comprehensive artist profiles, and active user communities for networking and discovering music through social interaction.

How can I determine the credibility of a music discovery site?

To determine the credibility of a music discovery site, check user reviews, assess the quality of the content it offers, analyze the professionalism of the site's layout and design, and consider whether industry professionals endorse or use the site. Additionally, credible sites often provide accurate and thorough metadata on tracks and artists.

Can these sites be used to find music for commercial use?

Some of these sites offer royalty-free music or licensing options for commercial use, but it’s important to read the terms and conditions thoroughly. You may need to purchase a license or get explicit permission from copyright holders before using the music for commercial purposes.

Are there specific sites dedicated to certain genres?

Yes, several music discovery sites cater to specific genres, providing a more focused search for managers who might be representing artists within a particular musical niche or are looking for specific types of new music to complement their existing portfolios.

How can managers effectively utilize social media for music discovery?

Managers can use social media to follow influencers, labels, music blogs, and artists. Engaging with communities and utilizing hashtags related to music discovery can also be fruitful. Social media platforms may also provide personalized recommendations based on user interaction.

Can I find international music on these sites?

Many music discovery sites have a broad selection that includes international music. They can be excellent resources for finding emerging talent from around the world and different cultural perspectives within music.

How often should I check these sites for new music?

Regular visits to these sites, such as weekly or bi-weekly, can help a manager stay updated with the latest releases and emerging artists. However, the frequency might vary depending on your needs and the rate at which the site updates its content.

Are there any free sites for music discovery, or do all require a subscription?

There are both free and subscription-based music discovery sites. Free sites often rely on ads for revenue, while subscription-based services typically offer additional features or an ad-free experience.

How can I engage with the artist community through these music discovery sites?

Many music discovery platforms have community features that allow users to comment, follow artists, and participate in forums or chat features. Engaging in these communities can help managers connect with both artists and fans, gather feedback, and build relationships within the industry.

Do music discovery sites also provide reviews and ratings?

Some music discovery sites include reviews and ratings from both users and professional critics. These can serve as a guide to gauging the quality or popularity of new music and artists.

What role do algorithms play in music recommendation on these sites?

Algorithms analyze user preferences, listening habits, and other data to make personalized music recommendations. A good algorithm can be instrumental in helping managers find music that aligns with their tastes or fits the needs of the artists they manage.

Is exclusive content available on these platforms?

Exclusive content, such as early releases or tracks only available on a particular platform, can sometimes be found on music discovery sites. These exclusives can offer managers a competitive edge in finding and promoting new music.

As a manager, how can I network on these music discovery sites?

Networking can be conducted through community engagement, direct messaging features, and by creating a strong profile within the site. Attending virtual events or online meet-ups hosted on the platform can also be valuable for building industry connections.

How do I keep track of the music I discover?

Utilize features like playlists, ‘favorites’, and download options provided by the site. Some platforms offer integrations with other services like note-taking apps or professional music management software for organizing and keeping track of your discoveries.

Can I use these sites to track the popularity and trends in music?

Yes, many sites feature trend-tracking tools, charts, and analytics that can help you monitor what’s popular and gain insight into where the music industry is headed. This information is valuable for making informed decisions about promotions and signings.

Are there legal considerations I should be aware of when using music from these sites?

Always be aware of copyright laws and the site's terms of use. If you plan to use music commercially, you will need to ensure proper licensing and adhere to any applicable copyright restrictions.

How does the quality of music on these platforms compare to traditional sources?

While traditional sources like record labels often curate their selections extensively, music discovery sites may have a broader range of quality due to the open nature of submissions. However, many talented artists are discovered through these platforms, providing a diverse spectrum of high-quality music.

What can I do if I encounter music I believe has potential, but isn’t quite there yet?

Connect with the artist and offer constructive feedback or a professional relationship. Many music discovery sites facilitate communication between industry professionals and artists open to development and collaboration.

Are playlists a reliable way to find new hits?

User-created or platform-curated playlists can be an excellent way to discover songs that are gaining popularity or are handpicked by music aficionados and experts. They can be a reliable source of finding potential new hits.

Can I contribute to these sites as a manager with industry experience?

Yes, some music discovery sites welcome contribution from industry professionals. You can write reviews, curate playlists, or offer insights through articles or the site’s blog, enhancing your reputation as a manager and contributing to the community.

There you have it – a concise guide to the best sites for discovering new music. Now go ahead and let the talent hunt begin! Share this guide with your fellow music managers so they too can stay in the loop about the latest, up-and-coming artists. Explore other guides on Lyric Assistant for more unbeatable insight. With us, delighting audiences is one step away!

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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.

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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.