Discovering exceptional music managers can make or break an artist's career. A good music manager can help artists navigate the complexities of the industry, facilitate better decision-making, and essentially accelerate their careers. In this article, we explore how to find music managers who can help realize your musical dreams.
Find Music Managers Table of Contents
Finding the Right Music Manager
Finding the Right Music Manager
When it comes to finding a music manager, it's not just about finding someone competent, but finding the right fit for your music and aspirations. Here's how you can go about it:
Understand Your Needs
Before you begin your search for a music manager, you must understand your needs well. Are you looking for someone to help with booking gigs? Or, do you want someone to help negotiate your record deal?
Networking Events
Music industry networking events, such as conferences and music festivals, are excellent places to meet potential music managers. These events are also beneficial to understand the industry's dynamics and make valuable connections.
Research and Background Check
Ensure to research potential managers before initiating conversations. Check their track record, the artists they have managed, and their reputation in the industry. Remember, a wrong choice can severely hamper your career.
Questions to Ask a Potential Music Manager
Once you've zeroed in on a potential manager, prepare a list of questions to ask during your initial meeting. Some of the questions include:
- What's your vision for my music/career?
- What are your strategies to help me reach my goals?
- What value do you offer apart from contacts and experience?
Find Music Managers Example:
As an up-and-coming artist, Jane Doe attended a local music conference where she met John, an experienced music manager. John had managed a number of successful artists in her same genre. Jane did her due diligence, checking John's track record and reputation. They also had a frank conversation about her music, goals, and expectations. Jane was impressed with John's vision and strategies and ultimately partnered with him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a music manager?
A music manager, also known as an artist manager or band manager, is a professional who guides the professional career of artists in the music industry. Their responsibilities often include negotiating contracts, booking gigs, orchestrating promotion and publicity, advising on career decisions, and helping artists to navigate the complexities of the music business.
Why do I need a music manager?
A music manager can be crucial for artists who want to progress professionally. They bring experience and industry connections that can help in securing opportunities, managing day-to-day business affairs, and allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of your music career.
When is the right time to look for a music manager?
The right time varies for each artist, but generally, you should consider finding a manager when you have established a foundation for your career — such as having a solid set of songs, a growing fan base, and some initial industry interest — but need professional guidance to take the next step.
Where can I find potential music managers?
Potential music managers can be found through networking at industry events, music conferences, festivals, through referrals by other music professionals, or by researching and contacting management firms that represent artists in your genre.
What should I look for in a music manager?
Look for a manager with experience in the industry, a proven track record with other artists, strong communication skills, solid connections, an understanding of your artistic vision, and the passion and drive to help you succeed.
How do I approach a music manager for representation?
Approach a manager professionally with a tailored email or message. Include your music samples, an EPK (Electronic Press Kit), career highlights, and express why you feel they would be the right fit for your music career. Always be courteous and patient for a response.
What should I include in my pitch to a music manager?
Your pitch should include your unique value proposition as an artist, a brief introduction, links to your music, social media profiles, any press you've received, career accomplishments, and clear reasons why you're seeking management.
How can I make my application stand out to a music manager?
Personalize your application, showcase high-quality recordings, highlight your professional achievements, demonstrate your commitment to your music career, provide social media and streaming analytics to prove a growing fan base, and exude a professional image.
What are the typical contract terms with a music manager?
Contract terms vary, but typically they define the duration of the agreement, the manager's commission (usually around 15%-20% of the artist's earnings), roles and responsibilities, expense handling, and the conditions for termination of the agreement.
Can I negotiate the terms of a management contract?
Yes, all terms of a management contract are negotiable. It's highly recommended to have an attorney with music industry experience review any contract before signing to ensure your best interests are protected.
How does a music manager get paid?
Music managers typically earn a percentage of the artist's gross income, which can include record sales, live performances, merchandising, and other revenue sources. The standard commission rate is 15%-20%, though this can vary dependent on the specifics of the agreement.
What's the difference between a music manager and a booking agent?
A music manager oversees the artist's overall career, whereas a booking agent is primarily responsible for finding and booking live performances. Managers can help secure a booking agent once the artist is ready to perform regularly.
Should I sign with an individual music manager or a management company?
This decision depends on your specific needs. An individual manager may offer more personalized attention, while a management company might provide more resources and a broader network. Evaluate the pros and cons of each based on your career stage and goals.
What is an Electronic Press Kit (EPK) and why is it important?
An EPK is a digital resume for musicians that includes biography, music samples, photos, videos, tour dates, press coverage, and contact information. It's essential because it provides music industry professionals with a comprehensive snapshot of an artist's brand and achievements.
How do I maintain a good working relationship with my music manager?
Maintain a good working relationship with your music manager through open communication, setting clear expectations, respecting their expertise, timely responses, being receptive to feedback, and keeping them updated on your creative progress and career needs.
Is it common for music managers to have connections with record labels?
Yes, experienced music managers often have connections with record labels, as well as various other industry professionals and organizations that can be instrumental in advancing an artist's career.
Can a music manager help me get a record deal?
A music manager can assist in getting a record deal by leveraging their industry contacts, pitching your music to record labels, and negotiating contract terms. However, securing a deal also depends on the artist's talent, marketability, and timing.
What happens if my music manager and I disagree on a career decision?
Disagreements are natural. It's important to discuss any differences of opinion openly and professionally. Remember that a good manager has your best interests in mind, but ultimately, career decisions are up to the artist.
Can I have more than one music manager?
Typically, an artist has one main music manager to ensure a clear, consistent strategy for their career. However, in some cases, co-management arrangements exist where two managers share the responsibilities, often in different geographical territories.
How can I tell if a music manager is reputable?
Research their professional background, ask for references from other artists or industry professionals, check their past and current client roster, and look for reviews or testimonials about their management services.
What should I do if I'm not satisfied with my music manager?
If you're not satisfied, communicate your concerns to your manager directly and see if circumstances can be improved. If the relationship is still not beneficial, review your contract terms for termination and consult a lawyer if necessary.
Identifying the right music manager can be the turning point in your music career. With thoughtful research and due diligence, you could find the perfect professional to steer your trajectory in the right direction. Once you've found your ideal manager, take your music to the next level using our Lyric Assistant. Don’t forget to share this article with your fellow artists and help them accelerate their journey to success. Explore other insightful guides on Lyric Assistant for more valuable resources to help build your music career.
