Behind every successful artist, there is a hardworking and talented manager. In the music industry, the job of artist managers is challenging and for bands is a challenging and fast-paced job. The job role is perfect for people who love music and have a passion for playing an essential role in shaping an artist’s career.
A successful music project comes with many responsibilities like communicating with the artist’s team, considering complex legal issues, and maintaining the numbers from social media and radio spins for cash flow and revenue splits. Although managing all this work, the manager must also aim for the artist to create relationships, anticipate issues, and make long-term strategies.
Managing an artist means juggling dozens of hats at a time, which makes it exciting as well as complex.
In this article, we will learn how artist managers contribute to an artist’s success. The responsibilities of artist managers are as follows:
1. Manage Recording Contracts
The significant role of artist managers is getting recording contracts. They have the responsibility of handling negotiations on your behalf. They also help you in obtaining contracts from the recording company. It is a crucial part, so you need someone who understands how recording companies think and work.
2. Negotiating Contracts
Music industry projects are incredibly complex. A main part of artist management is advising the client on business decisions and negotiating on their behalf. The manager has a financial stake in the success of their artist, and it is in their interest to negotiate hard for the best deal. A good music manager has vital interpersonal and negotiation skills.
3. Artist Direction
Even if the artist has an A&R with their label or publisher, the manager defines and synchronizes music and video release times, tour management, and live performances. The artist managers are the last persons to manage with A&R, and they must mediate the effect of all other partners.
The label and publishing company will also push the artist on the abused way. Sometimes the pressures from the A&R department make it extremely tough to play safe because it is tough to ignore the fear of failure and continue with a creative goal. Moreover, streamlining one’s vision and taking chances is an internal part of any art. Hence, the music artist managers often finds themselves stuck in risk vs. safety.
4. Tour Management
The manager works with the artist’s record label and booking agents about its artist’s tour schedules. Tours involve a lot of traveling, and it requires powerful logistic and planning skills. The artist manager’s task is to get their artist to stay in good places and markets and ensure that the tour runs smoothly.
5. Promote Artist Music
Another crucial role is to promote the artist’s music. This can be done in various ways, including radio, newspapers, music review sites, magazines, social media, and television. They are also in charge of conducting press releases and helping in launching the CD. Anything related to music promotion comes under the task of artist management.
6. Finance Management
The manager creates teams or already has one to help the artist manage their finances and keep the tour and production under budget. However, it depends on the present level of success. At some point, an accountant or financial advisor may be required.
7. Scheduling and Planning
A significant part of artist managers’ job is scheduling and planning. This includes booking studio time, coordinating with other artists for collaborations, and ensuring that all promotional activities are aligned with the release schedule. Effective planning helps in maximizing the reach and impact of the artist’s work.
8. Public Relations
Maintaining a positive public image is crucial for any artist. The music artist managers are responsible for managing public relations, including dealing with the media, setting up interviews, and managing the artist’s social media presence. They ensure that the artist’s image is consistent and positive.
9. Legal Affairs
Navigating the legal landscape of the music industry can be challenging. The artist managers often works with legal professionals to ensure that all contracts and agreements are in the best interest of the artist. This includes understanding copyright laws, handling disputes, and ensuring that the artist’s intellectual property is protected.
10. Career Development
The artist managers play a crucial role in career development. They help the artist set long-term goals and create a roadmap to achieve them. This includes identifying new opportunities, such as brand endorsements, acting roles, or writing opportunities, and helping the artist expand their career beyond music.
11. Crisis Management
Every artist faces crises at some point in their career, whether it’s a public scandal, a failed album, or a personal issue. An artist manager is responsible for handling these crises and ensuring that they have minimal impact on the artist’s career. This requires quick thinking, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
12. Networking
Building and maintaining a network of industry contacts is crucial for the artist managers. This includes relationships with record labels, promoters, other artists, and media outlets. A strong network can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable support when needed.
13. Merchandise Management
Merchandise can be a significant source of revenue for artists. The artist managers are responsible for overseeing the production, distribution, and sale of merchandise. This includes everything from t-shirts and posters to more unique items that resonate with the artist’s brand.
14. Fan Engagement
Engaging with fans is essential for building a loyal following. The music artist manager helps manage fan engagement through social media, fan clubs, meet-and-greets, and other activities. They ensure that fans feel connected to the artist and appreciated for their support.
15. Digital Strategy
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial. The artist managers help develop and execute a digital strategy that includes social media, streaming platforms, and online marketing. They ensure that the artist’s online presence is consistent and engaging.
How to Find the Best Music Manager?
So after reading this, you know what a music manager’s role is and how they help shape your career. You understand their multiple roles. But you are required to learn how to get a good music manager. It is a crucial decision, so don’t rush into it. You should take enough time to evaluate your requirements and ensure that you select the best artist manager for bands.
Steps to Find the Best Artist Managers
- Evaluate Your Needs:
Determine what you need from a manager. Do you need help with contracts, promotion, tour management, or all of the above? Knowing your needs will help you find a manager with the right skills and experience. - Research Potential Managers:
Look for managers who have experience in your genre and a track record of success. Check their reputation in the industry and talk to other artists they have managed. - Conduct Interviews:
Meet with potential managers to discuss your goals and see if they are a good fit. Ask about their experience, their approach to management, and their plans for your career. - Check References:
Ask for references from other artists and industry professionals. This will give you a better idea of the manager’s reputation and effectiveness. - Negotiate Terms:
Once you find a manager you like, negotiate the terms of your agreement. This includes the manager’s commission, their responsibilities, and the duration of the contract. - Use Platforms like Deliver My Tune:
Platforms like Deliver My Tune work as your personal music manager and provide you a proper artist management support. They provide access to over 100+ online music streaming apps for music distribution and opportunities to advertise your music to digital stores directly.
Related Articles:
For further reading, explore these related articles:
- The Ultimate Guide to Artist Management Contracts: Everything You Need to Know
- How to Utilize Shazam Insights on Apple Music for Artists to Boost Your Music Career
For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit Deliver My Tune.