Music management is an integral part of the music industry, as it guides the professional career of artists in the entertainment industry. The type of manager an artist needs depends on various factors, including their career stage, genre, goals, and individual needs. From the big-name artist managers to those juggling indie bands at the cusp of their breakout moment — there different types of music managers to consider. Let's delve deeper into the world of music management and explore the variety of manager types.
Types of Music Managers Table of Contents
The Business Manager
The Business Manager plays a crucial role in establishing and handling the financial affairs of an artist. They manage royalties, budgets for tours, income from various sources, and ensure tax payments are made on time.
The Road Manager
Road Managers are also known as tour managers, on-duty when an artist takes their show on the road. Their responsibilities range from arranging travel, managing crew members, liaising with promoters, handling emergencies, and even ensuring the artist wakes up on time.
Key responsibilities of Road Managers:
- Handle day-to-day activities on the road
- Ensure peace and order among the touring crew
- Resolve any emergencies or issues during the tour
The Artist Manager
Artist Managers are at the heart of an artist's career. They help define an artist's brand, strategise career moves, secure deals, promote their music, and more.
Key responsibilities of Artist Managers:
- Strategising and implementing career plans
- Acting as a liaison between the artist and music industry
- Negotiating contracts and agreements
Types of Music Managers Example:
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Imagine you're an emerging indie artist with a unique sound and a growing fan base. A Business Manager might assist in leveraging your popularity to secure profitable merchandise sales, whereas an Artist Manager will focus on enhancing your brand, scouting the right opportunities, and cultivating key industry relationships.
Choosing the right manager type is crucial for an artist's career. It's essential to understand each role's responsibilities and assess your own needs before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a music manager?
A music manager is a professional who guides the career of artists in the music industry. They are responsible for the business affairs of musicians and may handle everything from negotiating contracts to guiding the direction of creative projects.
How many types of music managers are there?
There are several types of music managers, including personal managers, business managers, tour managers, and artist managers, each with a specialized focus to address various aspects of an artist’s career.
What does a personal manager do?
A personal manager deals with all aspects of an artist's career. They work closely with the artist to develop a strategy for their music, image, and brand, and often serve as the artist’s main consultant.
What is the role of a business manager in music?
A business manager handles the financial affairs of the musician, from tax planning and investment to budgeting for tours and album production. They ensure the artist’s finances are in good order.
When should an artist consider getting a music manager?
An artist should consider hiring a music manager when they have reached a point in their career where managing all the tasks becomes overwhelming and they need professional assistance to keep advancing.
Can an artist have more than one type of manager?
Yes, an artist can work with different managers for different aspects of their career. For example, they might have a personal manager for overall strategy and a separate tour manager for live performances.
How does a tour manager differ from other music managers?
A tour manager specializes in managing the logistical aspects of touring, such as travel arrangements, accommodations, and making sure that shows run smoothly.
Does an unsigned artist need a manager?
While not mandatory, an unsigned artist can benefit from a manager to help them navigate the industry and gain opportunities. A manager’s experience and connections can be invaluable for an up-and-coming artist.
What should I look for in a music manager?
Look for a music manager with a strong track record, good connections in the industry, effective communication skills, and someone who shares your vision and passion for your music career.
How do music managers get paid?
Most music managers work on a commission basis, typically earning around 15-20% of the artist’s total income from the areas they manage. They may also work on a fixed fee or retainer in some cases.
What does an artist manager do that a personal manager does not?
An artist manager focuses on developing the artist's career and may handle some of the tasks a personal manager does but specifically focuses on music-related projects and opportunities.
How long is a typical music management contract?
The length of a music management contract can vary but typically ranges from one to five years. It’s important to negotiate terms that are mutually acceptable for both the artist and the manager.
What happens if an artist wants to break a management contract?
If an artist wants to break a management contract, it generally requires negotiating an exit strategy, which may involve some sort of compensation or fulfillment of contract terms.
Can a music manager help with signing a record deal?
Yes, a music manager with good industry connections and knowledge can assist an artist in finding and negotiating a record deal, acting as an intermediary between record labels and the artist.
What's the difference between a manager and a music agent?
The main difference is that a music agent focuses on booking live performances and tours for an artist, whereas a manager handles overall career strategy and may oversee various other aspects of the artist’s business.
Is it possible for family members to manage a music artist?
Yes, family members can manage a music artist, and it’s not uncommon in the industry. However, it’s important to ensure that they have the necessary skills and professional approach to handle the artist’s business effectively.
How involved are music managers in creative decisions?
Music managers can be quite involved in creative decisions, offering input on song choices, album production, and branding, but the level of involvement varies depending on the relationship between the manager and the artist.
Should an artist consult with a lawyer before signing with a manager?
Yes, it's highly recommended that an artist consults with an entertainment lawyer to review any management contracts to ensure their rights are protected and the terms are fair.
What is a '360 deal' in music management?
A '360 deal' is an agreement where the manager is involved in all aspects of the artist's career, including recordings, touring, merchandising, and endorsements, usually in exchange for a percentage of revenues from these sources.
How does one become a music manager?
To become a music manager, one typically needs a combination of education in music business or related fields and practical experience through internships or working within the industry. Networking and a strong understanding of the music business are also essential.
Do music managers work with independent artists?
Yes, music managers frequently work with independent artists. Managers can provide valuable guidance and support to help independent artists grow their careers and reach a wider audience.
What is the benefit of having a local manager versus one from a major music city?
Having a local manager can be beneficial for personalized attention and local connections. In contrast, a manager from a major music city may have broader industry connections and access to larger opportunities.
Can a manager guarantee success in the music industry?
No manager can guarantee success in the music industry, as it's influenced by many unpredictable factors. However, a good manager can significantly increase the chances of success by providing professional guidance and leveraging their expertise and resources.
Stay tuned for more detailed guides on Lyric Assistant to aid you in your musical journey, offering insights and handy tips. We encourage you to share this article with budding artists in your network or simply anyone intrigued by the music industry's managerial dynamics.
