How do I become a music manager: Easy Steps to Start Your Career

If you love music and enjoy helping others succeed, becoming a music manager could be the perfect job for you. But you might be wondering, “How do I become a music manager?” It’s not as complicated as it seems. With the right mix of passion, skills, and effort, you can start your journey in the exciting world of artist management.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, step by step. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan to kickstart your career and guide artists toward success. So, let’s dive in!

What Does a Music Manager Do?

Before we get into how to become a music manager, let’s first understand what the job is all about. A music manager is someone who takes care of the business side of an artist’s career. This allows the artist to focus on what they do best—creating music.

Here are some things music managers do:

They plan and organize concerts, tours, and music releases.
They talk to record labels, event organizers, and sponsors to create opportunities for their artists.

In short, music managers are like the backbone of an artist’s career. They make sure everything runs smoothly so the artist can shine.

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Music Manager?

To be a great music manager, you don’t need to know how to sing or play an instrument. Instead, you need skills that help you organize, communicate, and manage.

1. Communication

You’ll talk to many people, like artists, event planners, and industry professionals. Being clear and convincing will help you make deals and build strong relationships.

2. Organization

As a manager, you’ll juggle multiple tasks, like booking shows, handling finances, and planning promotions. Good organizational skills are your best friend.

3. Networking

The music world thrives on connections. The more people you know, the easier it will be to find opportunities for your artist.

4. Problem-Solving

Things don’t always go as planned. You’ll need to think on your feet to fix issues quickly and keep everything on track.

5. Passion for Music

Finally, a love for music will keep you motivated. When you enjoy what you do, it shows in your work!

Do You Need a Degree to Be a Music Manager?

The good news is you don’t need a fancy degree to become a music manager. Many successful managers started without any formal education in music. That said, having a degree or certification in fields like business, marketing, or music management can give you an edge.

Here are some options:

Business or Marketing Degree: Helps you understand finance, contracts, and promotions.
Music Industry Courses: Many colleges offer courses that teach the ins and outs of the music business.
Online Certifications: Platforms like Coursera and Udemy have affordable programs on music management.

But remember, experience matters more than a degree in this field. So don’t stress if formal education isn’t an option for you.

How to Gain Experience in the Music Industry

Experience is everything when it comes to becoming a music manager. But how do you get that experience? Let’s break it down.

Start Small

Offer to manage a local band or an independent artist who’s just starting. They might not have a big budget, but they’ll appreciate your help. This gives you hands-on experience and helps you build your portfolio.

Intern with Music Companies

Many record labels and music agencies offer internships. Even if it’s unpaid, it’s worth the experience. You’ll learn how the industry works and make valuable connections.

Volunteer at Music Events

Help organize concerts, music festivals, or open mic nights. You’ll meet industry professionals and learn what goes into managing artists during live performances.

Building Your Network: The Key to Success

In the music industry, who you know matters as much as what you know. Networking can open doors that might otherwise stay closed.

Attend Music Events

Go to concerts, festivals, and music conferences. Introduce yourself to artists, promoters, and other managers. Always carry a business card or have your contact details ready to share.

Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and even Twitter are great for connecting with artists and industry professionals. Follow them, engage with their content, and don’t be shy to send a message.

Join Music Organizations

Groups like the Music Managers Forum (MMF) offer resources and networking opportunities. You might even find a mentor who can guide you.

How to Start Managing an Artist

So, you’ve built some skills and made a few connections. Now it’s time to manage your first artist. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Find the Right Artist

Look for someone whose music you genuinely enjoy. Managing someone you believe in makes the job much easier.

Step 2: Build Trust

Artists need to trust their managers completely. Be honest, reliable, and always keep their best interests in mind.

Step 3: Plan Their Career

Work with the artist to set short-term and long-term goals. Maybe they want to release an album, go on tour, or grow their online presence.

Step 4: Handle Their Business

From booking gigs to negotiating deals, take charge of the business side. Keep the artist informed but let them focus on making music.

Marketing and Promoting Your Artist

Getting an artist noticed is one of your most important jobs. Here are some ways to do it:

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are powerful tools for reaching fans. Post regularly, engage with followers, and create content that showcases the artist’s personality.

Collaborate with Other Artists

Team up with other musicians for joint projects. This exposes your artist to a wider audience.

Pitch to Playlists

Getting songs added to popular Spotify or Apple Music playlists can skyrocket an artist’s streams.

Managing Contracts and Finances

Money and contracts can be tricky, but they’re crucial parts of your job. Here’s how to handle them:

Always read contracts carefully before signing.
Keep track of income and expenses, like gig payments and recording costs.
Set aside money for taxes, travel, and emergencies.

Tools to Make Your Job Easier

Thanks to technology, managing an artist has never been simpler. Here are some tools you can use:

Management Software: Tools like Artist Growth help you track schedules and finances.
Social Media Tools: Platforms like Hootsuite let you plan and manage posts.
Streaming Analytics: Use Spotify for Artists to see how the artist’s music is performing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Music Managers Get Paid Upfront?

Usually, music managers earn a percentage (10–20%) of the artist’s income. So, you get paid when they do.

Can I Manage More Than One Artist?

Yes! As you gain experience, you can take on more artists. Just make sure you can give each one the attention they deserve.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a music manager is all about passion, hard work, and perseverance. It might seem overwhelming at first, but every step brings you closer to your dream. The key is to start small, keep learning, and never give up.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I become a music manager?”, the answer is simple—just start. Every big success story begins with a first step. So, go out there, find an artist, and help them conquer the music world. You’ve got this!

For further reading, explore these related articles:

For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit Deliver My Tune.