If you're a budding songwriter or musician, a music manager can be your pathway to stardom. Their connections, experience, and business acumen can truly propel your career. But where do you begin finding the right one? This guide will help you navigate the myriad of online resources and websites for finding music managers.
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Websites for Finding Music Managers Table of Contents
Where to look for Music Managers Online
Importance of a Music Manager
In the music industry, talent is key but networking and business acumen are equally essential. That's where music managers come in. They help to strategise your career growth, expand your network and negotiate contracts. Essentially, they act as a bridge between artists and the industry.
Where to look for Music Managers Online
Finding a reputable music manager can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the scene. Here are some top websites to begin your search:
Music Managers Forum (MMF)
The MMF is a globally recognised community of music managers. They provide resources and directories of their members and offer networking opportunities, making it a great place to find potential music managers.
LinkedIn is a professional networking platform where you can not only discover profiles of potential music managers but also check their experience, references and connections.
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The Music Network
This digital publisher provides a detailed directory of music managers who cater to different genres and levels of musicians.
SoundBetter
SoundBetter offers a comprehensive database of music professionals including managers. You can browse their profiles, testimonials and choose a perfect fit for your music career.
Tips for Choosing the Right Music Manager
Choosing the right music manager is crucial. Here are a few tips:
- Research their past clients to understand their genre and style of work
- Verify their experience and qualifications
- Ensure your personal and professional values align with theirs
- Discuss their future strategy for your music career
Websites for Finding Music Managers Example:
Imagine you're an upcoming pop singer. You go to the MMF website and search for managers who cater to your genre. You find a manager whose previous collaborations have worked with your favourite artists. Thankfully, their professional values align with yours too. After initial discussions, they lay out a clear path for your career, which excites you. They have a solid reputation and good references and thus, you decide to hire them.
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. This person's responsibility includes negotiating contracts, booking gigs, and helping to create a strategic career plan. Essentially, a music manager works to promote and develop an artist's career.
Why would I need a music manager?
As an artist, having a music manager can help you focus on your creative output while someone else handles the business side of your career. This includes managing your schedule, securing opportunities, and working toward long-term goals. A good manager can propel your career forward.
Can I find a music manager online?
Yes, there are multiple websites and online platforms dedicated to helping artists connect with music managers. These websites often include directories, networking opportunities, and resources to help you find the right professional to work with.
Are music management services free?
It depends on the service. Some online directories and networking sites may be free to use, but professional music managers typically work for a percentage of the earnings they help generate for an artist. It's important to discuss payment expectations upfront.
How do I choose the right music manager for my genre?
Research the music manager's current and past clients to determine their experience within your genre. You should also consider their reputation, their network and their past successes. Make sure their vision aligns with yours and they have a passion for your style of music.
What should I prepare before reaching out to a music manager?
Before reaching out, prepare a press kit that includes your biography, music samples, social media statistics, gig history, press coverage, and any other relevant information that could help sell your brand to a potential manager.
How do I know a music manager is reputable?
Look for reviews, ask for references, and check their track record in the industry. A reputable music manager should be transparent about their past work and open to discussing their career highlights.
What red flags should I watch out for when searching for a music manager?
Be cautious of managers who ask for money upfront, those who lack communication skills, or who don't have any verifiable industry connections. Additionally, avoid those who make unrealistic promises or lack a clear understanding of your music and brand.
Is it better to work with a local music manager or is location not a factor?
While local managers may have better connections within your local scene, location is becoming less of a factor in today's digital age. It's more important to work with someone who is well-connected within the broader music industry and who believes in your talent, regardless of where they are based.
Should I sign a contract with a music manager?
Absolutely. A contract helps outline the expectations, roles, and financial arrangements between you and the manager. Make sure to thoroughly review and understand the contract, or consult a legal professional before signing.
How long does a typical artist-manager relationship last?
The length of an artist-manager relationship can vary greatly. It often depends on the terms of the contract, the success of the partnership, and the personal dynamics between the artist and manager. Some relationships may last a few years, while others can span entire careers.
What is a fair commission for a music manager to take?
A typical commission for a music manager ranges from 15% to 20% of an artist's gross income. However, this can be negotiated based on the manager's involvement and the specific circumstances of the artist's career.
Can I have more than one music manager?
It's more common for an artist to have one main manager. However, in some cases, a team of managers or a co-management situation could work, especially if the artist's career is large-scale and spans across different aspects of the industry such as publishing, touring, and recording.
How involved should a music manager be in the creative process?
The level of involvement in the creative process varies among managers. While some prefer to offer input and feedback, others may take a more hands-off approach. It's important to discuss and agree upon these boundaries early in your relationship.
What platforms are best for finding music managers?
LinkedIn, Bandcamp, SoundCloud, and music industry networking sites like Music Xray, Sonicbids, and ARTISTHEAD are some places where you can find music managers. Additionally, traditional industry events and conferences can also be valuable for making connections.
Do I need to have a certain level of success before finding a music manager?
Not necessarily, though having a solid foundation such as a following, some recorded music, and gig experience can make you more attractive to prospective managers. However, some managers enjoy developing talent from the ground up, so it can vary widely.
What’s the difference between a music manager and an agent?
A music manager typically works closely with an artist to develop their overall career strategy, whereas an agent primarily focuses on booking live performances and tours. Both roles are important but have distinct functions in advancing an artist's career.
How much experience should a music manager have?
Ideally, your music manager should have a significant amount of experience in the industry, with established relationships and knowledge of music business practices. However, sometimes a less experienced, yet highly motivated manager could also be a good fit if they show potential and dedication.
Can a friend or family member be a good music manager?
While it's possible for a friend or family member to manage your music career, it's crucial that they have a professional approach, understand the music industry, and have your best interests at heart. Mixing personal and professional relationships can be tricky, so clear boundaries should be established.
How often should I communicate with my music manager?
Regular communication with your music manager is key to ensuring that you're both aligned with your career goals. Weekly or bi-weekly meetings, either in person or via calls/videos, can help maintain a healthy and productive working relationship.
What happens if the relationship with my music manager isn't working out?
If the relationship with your music manager isn't working, it's important to address concerns early and try to resolve issues amicably. If necessary, refer to your contract's termination clause for guidance on parting ways professionally without damaging your career.
Music is a shared experience. Share this article with your music buddies who are also looking for some managerial guidance to skyrocket their careers. Remember, a good manager can really unlock your potential. Explore other guides on Lyric Assistant on related topics and deepen your music industry knowledge.
