Are you a budding singer or songwriter looking to elevate your career to the next stage? Are you feeling a little stranded and unsure of the steps you need to take? One of the most critical junctions in a successful music career is attracting the attention of a reputable music manager. This article dives deeply into the different strategies you can utilize effectively to engage music managers.
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Reaching Out to Music Managers Table of Contents
Understanding the Role of a Music Manager
How to Prepare Before Contacting a Music Manager
Understanding the Role of a Music Manager
Before reaching out for management, it is essential you understand the role a music manager plays. A manager’s responsibilities often include guiding an artist’s career, helping to make decisions, pitching to labels and bookers, and networking on behalf of their client. Having a music manager can completely transform your career, adding professionality and industry knowledge.
How to Prepare Before Contacting a Music Manager
Create Noteworthy Music
Music managers are attracted to talent that shows promise and dedication to their craft. Therefore, your music needs to be top-tier. Lyric Assistant is an excellent tool for this, helping perfect your songs in minutes based on your unique specifications.
Build a Compelling Portfolio
An impressive portfolio showcases clarity about who you are as an artist, and what you offer. It should include a biography, your best songs, any press you've had, and previous performances.
Establish a Strong Social Media Presence
By creating a strong online presence, you make it much easier for managers to envision success with you. Organically demonstrate your growth, talent, authenticity, and fan engagement online through regular posts and interactions.
Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter
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How to Reach Out to Music Managers
When reaching out, tailor your message using the same language and style your ideal manager uses. Also, demonstrate that you understand their current clientele, and show how you align with, or differ from, their existing artists. Most importantly, be professional, concise and appreciative; never desperate or overly persistent.
Seek Recommendations
An industry recommendation enormously boosts your credibility. Having an industry expert back you up gives you enormous advantage when reaching out to music managers.
Attend Industry Events
Music conferences, networking events, and gigs are excellent avenues for meeting managers. Always be prepared with your 'elevator pitch' and ensure that every interaction stays memorable and positive.
Reaching Out to Music Managers Example:
Let’s take an example of an Independent Pop Singer - Mark. Mark uses Lyric Assistant to perfect his songs and spends time growing his fan base online. After he compiles his portfolio, he starts studying the work of various music managers whose clientele includes pop artists. He then finds a music conference where one of these managers will speak and prepares himself to make a great first impression. Mark approaches the manager, introduces himself professionally, and mentions a couple of the manager's artists whose work he admires, then proceeds to discuss his music direction showcasing he's done his homework. He leaves a positive and engaging impression, increasing his chances of getting a follow-up from the manager.
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. Their responsibilities include negotiating contracts, arranging gigs, managing schedules, and advising on career decisions.
How do I find a music manager?
You can find a music manager by networking in music industry events, searching online directories, asking for referrals from fellow musicians, or researching and reaching out to management firms that represent artists in your genre.
When is the right time for an artist to seek a manager?
An artist should consider seeking a manager when they have a solid body of work, have started to build a fan base, and are ready to take their career to the next level but need guidance and professional help to do so.
What qualities should I look for in a music manager?
Look for someone who is enthusiastic about your music, has a strong network in the industry, exhibits excellent communication skills, is trustworthy, and has a track record of successfully managing other artists.
Should I pay to get a music manager?
No, legitimate music managers typically earn a commission, which is a percentage of your earnings rather than an upfront payment. Be wary of anyone asking for money upfront.
What percentage do music managers take?
Music managers typically take between 15% to 20% of an artist's gross earnings. However, the percentage can vary based on the manager's experience, the level of the artist's career, and the specific terms of your agreement.
Can I reach out to a music manager if I'm not from a major city?
Yes, you can reach out to a music manager regardless of your location. With digital communication and the globalization of the music industry, it’s possible to work remotely with a manager.
Is it necessary for me to have a large following before I contact a manager?
While a large following can be attractive to managers, it's not always necessary. What is more important is your potential, talent, and readiness to work hard. Show that you have the drive to grow, and a manager may take notice.
How should I prepare before reaching out to a music manager?
Have a professional portfolio ready, including your biography, discography, press materials, and links to your music and social media profiles. Develop a clear picture of your career goals and achievements to present.
How does a music manager differ from a booking agent or publicist?
A music manager oversees an artist’s overall career, while a booking agent specifically handles live performance bookings and a publicist focuses on media coverage and public image. Each role has specific duties within an artist's career.
What should I include in my initial contact with a potential manager?
In your initial contact, include a concise introduction, highlighting your achievements, a link to your music, and why you believe the manager is the right fit for your career. Be respectful and professional in your approach.
How do I pitch myself to a potential manager?
To pitch yourself, create a compelling message that includes who you are, what your music is about, your career highlights, and your vision for the future. Be genuine, succinct, and confident.
Should I sign an agreement with a music manager?
Yes, if you decide to work with a music manager, it's crucial to have a written agreement in place. This contract should outline the terms of your working relationship, including commissions, duties, length of the agreement, and how either party can terminate the contract.
What can a music manager do that I can't do myself?
A music manager brings industry knowledge, contacts, and experience that an independent artist may not have. They can navigate the business side of music, allowing you to focus on creativity and performance.
How long should I try to reach out before considering a different manager?
If you haven't heard back within a few weeks after reaching out, it may be worth following up or considering other options. Persistence is key, but it’s also important to recognize when it’s time to move on.
What if a music manager is interested but I’m not sure they are the right fit?
If you're unsure, it's okay to ask questions, request references, or even set up a trial period. It’s essential to have trust and confidence in your manager, and not hastily enter an agreement that you’re uncertain about.
Can I work with more than one music manager?
Typically, artists work with one main manager to maintain a clear and consistent strategy. However, in different territories or for different aspects of your career, you might work with additional managers, as long as your agreements permit it.
Do I need to have a finished album before contacting a music manager?
Having a finished album is not a requirement, but having a good quality representation of your music is crucial. Demos or singles can also be sufficient as long as they showcase your talent effectively.
Are there any risks in working with a music manager?
The risks include entering into a poor agreement, working with someone who does not genuinely have your best interests in mind, or giving up control over aspects of your career. Ensure you understand the terms of any agreement and trust your manager.
Can a manager drop an artist?
Yes, a music manager can drop an artist if things aren't working out or if the artist isn't meeting expectations as per the terms of the agreement. Contracts typically define the circumstances under which a manager can terminate the relationship.
How do I maintain a good relationship with my music manager?
Communication is key to maintaining a good relationship with your manager. Be honest, open, and respectful. Clearly define and manage expectations, and ensure both parties are working towards the same goals.
Conclusively, reaching out to a music manager needs to be planned and executed with precision and tact. With properly done homework and the right tools like Lyric Assistant, reaching your music career goals might be closer than you think. If you found this article informative and useful, share it with your fellow artists. There's much more knowledge and assistance available at Lyric Assistant. Explore other articles and guides to expand your insights in music further.
