Navigating the music industry can be a daunting process, even for the most skilled musicians. A music manager can play an instrumental role in shaping your musical journey, from shaping your brand to brokering profitable deals, to keeping your career on an upward trajectory. In this guide, we'll dive into this topic on how to find the perfect music manager and make your path in the music industry smoother.
Find a Music Manager Table of Contents
Understanding the role of a Music Manager
Understanding the role of a Music Manager
Music managers play a crucial role in an artist's career. They handle administrative tasks, make business decisions, and essentially manage the 'business' aspect of an artist's career so that the artist may focus on their passion - creating music.
Why you need a Music Manager
- Networking: Music managers have established relationships with industry contacts and can find opportunities that artists wouldn’t be able to find on their own.
- Business Knowledge: Music is art, but it’s also a business. Managers understand industry norms, contract terms, and how to negotiate deals to the artist’s advantage.
- Strategic Planning: Managers can help develop and implement marketing and promotional strategies to boost an artist's career.
Finding the Right Music Manager
Once you have a clear understanding of why you need a music manager, the next step is to find the right one.
Conduct Research
Look into managers who have experience in your genre of music and have worked with artists similar to you. Find out how those artists' careers have evolved under their management.
Networking Events
Networking events can be a superb way to meet potential managers. Carry business cards and demo tapes to hand out at such events.
Social Media
Social media can be a powerful tool in connecting with potential managers. Follow and engage with their posts to get noticed.
Find a Music Manager Example:
Singer Jane Doe was struggling to manage her career while also focusing on her music. She decided to hire a music manager to help her navigate the industry. After researching and networking, she found Galaxy Management Group. Their experience with pop artists like her, coupled with their wide industry network, appealed to her. She reached out, outlining her musical vision and ambitions. After a couple of meetings, she signed a contract with them. Today, Galaxy Management Group has helped structure multiple album deals for Jane and increased her visibility within the music industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a music manager?
A music manager is a professional who guides the professional career of artists in the music industry. The manager's duties include negotiating contracts, helping to find record deals or booking gigs, connecting artists with industry personnel, and providing general career counsel and direction.
Why do I need a music manager?
A music manager can be integral to your success in the music industry. They often have the experience, connections, and knowledge to help you navigate the industry, get performance opportunities, manage your publicity, and ultimately grow your career.
When should I start looking for a music manager?
You should consider looking for a music manager when you have developed your craft to a professional level, have some momentum (for example, a growing fanbase or critical acclaim), and when you feel you're ready to take your career to the next level but require guidance and connections you may not possess.
How do I find the right music manager for my career?
Look for a manager who believes in your music, understands your artistic vision, and has the right contacts and experience to elevate your career. It helps to research their past successes with artists who have a similar style or career trajectory to yours.
What qualities should I look for in a good music manager?
A good music manager should be well-connected, knowledgeable about the music industry, trustworthy, passionate about your work, have good business sense, strong negotiation skills, and must be willing to put your interests first.
Can I manage my own music career?
Yes, you can manage your own music career, especially in the early stages. However, as your career progresses, you may find that the administrative and business aspects become overwhelming, and a professional manager can help you focus more on creating music.
Is it okay to have a friend or family member manage my music career?
While it's common to have a friend or family member manage your career in the beginning, it's important they have or are willing to gain the necessary knowledge and skills in music management. As you grow, you might need to consider a professional manager with proven industry experience.
How do I approach a potential manager?
Approach a potential manager professionally with a well-prepared pitch. Present clear evidence of your career progress, including music samples, press materials, performance history, and any significant achievements or career milestones.
What should I include in my pitch to a potential manager?
Your pitch to a potential manager should include a compelling biography, links to your music, music videos if available, press clippings, touring history, social media statistics, and any other relevant accomplishments that showcase your potential.
What are the typical terms of a management contract?
A typical management contract includes the term length, manager's fees (often a percentage of your gross income), the scope of the manager's responsibilities, and clauses that address what happens if either party wants to terminate the agreement. Always seek legal advice before signing any contract.
How much does a music manager get paid?
A music manager usually gets paid a commission based on a percentage of your earnings, typically between 15% and 20%. This can vary based on your agreement and the manager's level of involvement in different revenue streams.
Should I choose a manager based in my genre of music?
While it's not mandatory, it can be beneficial to choose a manager who specializes in your genre of music. They are likely to have more relevant connections, better understand your market, and know how to navigate the specific challenges and opportunities within that genre.
Can I have more than one manager?
It's possible to have more than one manager if your career spans different aspects of the industry that require specialized attention. However, this can be complex and requires clear communication and understanding between all parties involved.
What's the difference between a music manager and an agent?
A music agent is typically focused on booking live performances and may handle other parts of the industry like film or commercial bookings, while a manager handles the overall career strategy and day-to-day business affairs of an artist.
How do I negotiate the terms of a management contract?
Negotiating the terms of a management contract should always be done with the assistance of an attorney experienced in entertainment law. Be sure to discuss the scope of work, length of the contract, commission rates, and what happens if you or the manager wants to end the relationship.
Can a music manager help me get a record deal?
Yes, a music manager can help you get a record deal. Managers often use their industry contacts to open doors and secure meetings with label executives and can also help negotiate the terms of any deal that arises.
What's the best way to determine if a manager is reputable?
Do your research by checking their client list, reaching out to industry connections for references, looking at their track record, and asking to speak to other artists they've managed. It's also helpful to look for any industry awards or recognitions.
Are there red flags to watch out for when choosing a music manager?
Watch out for managers who ask for money upfront, make unrealistic promises, lack transparency, have no verifiable industry experience, or are unwilling to provide references from other artists they have managed.
Can my music manager help with PR and marketing?
Many managers do assist with PR and marketing efforts, either by doing it themselves, hiring the right people, or working closely with your record label's in-house team to ensure that your music reaches as wide an audience as possible.
How do I maintain a good working relationship with my manager?
Maintain a good working relationship with your manager by setting clear expectations, having regular communication, respecting their professional expertise, and understanding that their success is linked to your own. Transparency and mutual respect are key elements.
What happens if I want to end my relationship with my manager?
If you want to end your relationship with your manager, refer to your management contract for the correct procedures. Typically, a notice period is required, and there may be financial obligations that need to be settled. Always handle such situations professionally and amicably if possible.
Can a manager secure collaboration opportunities for me?
Yes, a manager can help facilitate collaboration opportunities. They can leverage their network to connect you with other artists, songwriters, and producers, creating potential avenues for collaborative ventures.
Finding a music manager may seem like a formidable task, but armed with this guide, you're one step closer to finding the right partner to boost your music career. Explore further on Lyric Assistant for more guides to excel in your musical journey and share this article to help others seeking the same assistance. Together, let's continue to make melodious strides in the music industry!
