Music management is an integral factor contributing to the success of any artist, but what are the business dynamics of such partnerships? The nuanced world of music managers and their compensation structure is a topic that many are curious about, yet few understand. In this article, we'll unravel the mystery behind the question "What Percentage Do Music Managers Get".
Looking to write your next song? Transform your creative ideas into songs that people will love, and skyrocket your music career with Lyric Assistant. The perfect songwriting assistant. Find out more →
What Percentage Do Music Managers Get Table of Contents
The Role of Music Managers
Music managers are an essential part of an artist's success. They offer their expertise in negotiating contracts, promoting the artist, organizing tours, and so much more. Not only do they handle the mundane business aspects, but they are also the strategic partners who help artists to chart their career trajectory.
Music Manager's Pay Structure
Music managers earn a percentage of the artist’s gross income. This percentage is usually agreed upon by both parties before formalizing the partnership and is typically between 10% and 20%.
The 10-20% Rule
- 10%: This lower percentage is rarer and is usually reserved for established artists with a steady income flow, where the manager’s role could be seen as less integral to the artist's success.
- 20%: This is more common, particularly for new, upcoming artists. The manager’s role is considered more crucial here, as they typically handle a broader range of responsibilities at this stage in an artist's career, thus justifying the higher commission.
Exceptions to the Rule
Many factors could influence the percentage a music manager gets. These include the artist's fame, the manager's reputation, and the breadth of the manager's responsibilities. High-profile managers could charge more, while artists handling many tasks independently might negotiate for a lesser percentage.
Understanding The Specifics
Since a music manager’s compensation is pegged on the gross income, it’s fundamental to understand what gross income entails in the music industry. It primarily includes performance and record sales earnings but could also encompass merchandise, endorsements, and royalties from secondary rights.
What Percentage Do Music Managers Get Example:
Meet Jane, an upcoming indie-rock artist. Jane signs a management contract with XYZ Music Management. They agree on a 20% commission, given Jane's novice status in the industry and XYZ's stellar profile in fostering new talent.
If Jane earns $5,000 in a month from various income streams, Jane's manager would get paid $1,000 (20% of $5,000). If Jane lands a lucrative endorsement deal worth $50,000, then her manager is entitled to $10,000 from it.
Understanding the business dynamics of the music industry can prove pivotal in making informed decisions in your career journey. Music managers play an important role in guiding an artist's career, and their compensation is a critical consideration.
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 responsibilities may include negotiating contracts, seeking opportunities, advising on career decisions, and coordinating various aspects of an artist's professional life.
What percentage do music managers typically take?
Music managers generally take between 15% to 20% of an artist's gross income. This can vary based on the manager's experience, the extent of their services, and the specific arrangements made between the manager and the artist.
Does the manager's percentage cover all sources of an artist's income?
Yes, the manager's cut usually covers all income streams, such as touring, merchandise sales, recording royalties, and any other revenue-generating activities within the artist's career.
What does gross income mean in the context of a music manager’s percentage?
Gross income refers to the total revenue generated by the artist before any expenses are deducted. A manager's percentage is typically calculated from this amount rather than the net income, which is the revenue remaining after expenses.
Is the manager's fee negotiable?
Yes, the manager's fee is often negotiable. It can be affected by various factors such as the artist's current success level, potential for growth, and the specific services the manager will provide.
How does a manager's percentage compare between new artists and established artists?
New artists might agree to a higher percentage to attract an experienced manager who can provide significant value, while established artists with leverage might negotiate a lower percentage due to their already developed career.
Should a manager get a percentage of deals negotiated before the partnership?
No, typically managers do not receive a percentage of deals made prior to their involvement unless it is specifically agreed upon that past deals will be included under their management contract.
How are manager percentages handled in the case of band members?
In the case of a band, the manager’s percentage is usually calculated from the total income earned by the band and then divided amongst the members according to their internal agreements.
What happens to the manager's percentage when an artist decides to retire or take a break?
When an artist retires or takes a break, the manager's percentage may cease or be reduced, depending on the terms outlined in the management contract. Some contracts include a "sunset clause" that reduces the manager's fee over time after an artist becomes inactive.
Are there any circumstances where a manager might not take a percentage?
Some managers may agree to a flat fee arrangement or another type of compensation structure, particularly if the artist is unable to afford the standard percentage or if the manager believes in investing time into the artist's future potential.
What is a sunset clause?
A sunset clause is a provision in a management contract that outlines a gradual reduction of the manager's commission after the working relationship ends or after a certain event, such as an artist's retirement.
Does a manager earn a percentage from songwriting royalties?
Typically, a manager does not directly earn a percentage from songwriting royalties, as these are usually the purview of publishers and are considered separate from the artist's performance-related income that the manager oversees.
Can an artist negotiate back-ends in place of a higher percentage?
Yes, an artist can sometimes negotiate to provide managers with back-end bonuses or profit-sharing options for certain projects in place of a standard higher management fee.
What should an artist consider before agreeing to a manager's percentage?
Before agreeing to a manager's percentage, an artist should consider the manager's track record, the scope of services offered, the potential career growth they can provide, and whether the terms align with the artist's long-term goals.
Are there standards for managers' percentages in different countries?
While there are general industry standards, managers' percentages can vary by country and region depending on local music industry practices and legal considerations.
What is the role of a management contract?
A management contract legally binds the artist and the manager to the agreed-upon terms, including the percentage, scope of work, duration of the agreement, and other important details concerning their professional relationship.
How does the manager's percentage relate to an artist's profitability?
The manager's percentage can significantly impact an artist's profitability. It's crucial for an artist to weigh the value a manager brings against the costs of their services to ensure a beneficial partnership for both parties.
What if an artist feels their manager is not worth the agreed-upon percentage?
If an artist feels their manager is not delivering value equal to the agreed-upon percentage, they should address their concerns through open communication, and if unresolved, they may consult legal advice to re-negotiate terms or dissolve the contract.
Can the manager's percentage change over time?
Yes, changes to the manager's percentage can be negotiated over time as an artist's career progresses, typically through a contract renewal or amendment process.
Do managers also help with personal expenses of an artist?
Managers primarily focus on career-related expenses and income. They usually do not cover personal expenses unless specifically arranged, which would also alter the management fee structure.
How often are management fees paid out to the manager?
Management fees are typically paid out regularly, often after income is received, such as monthly or quarterly, as stipulated in the management contract.
Can a manager be fired if they're not performing well?
Yes, a manager can be fired for underperformance, but this must be done in accordance with the terms set out in the management contract to avoid legal disputes.
If you're an artist or lyricist, check out the rest of our collection of tips and guides on Lyric Assistant. Looking to write your next big song? Lyric Assistant can help. Don’t forget to share this article with fellow musicians to help them navigate the music industry smarter!
