ARTIST MANAGEMENT: THE INS AND OUTS

THIS IS FOR YOU…

This posting is for both artists and music managers.  As a newbie to this industry, the last 10 months have been enlightening in regards to the music business and those who navigate this industry as a career choice. This year, I will complete my Master’s in Entertainment Business.  As such, D Leigh Talent will be born.  As you know per my earlier posts, I plan to become a music manager, responsible for acquiring talent and seeking opportunities for the clients I represent. So I thought it might be helpful to better understand the roles of both parties.

FOR MUSICIANS

I read a recent blog related to this subject titled “Get a Music Manager, Part 1.”  This article had some good insight as to what a band needs to have before approaching a music manager. A music manager looking for artists will want to know that the client is serious and dedicated.  This can be evidenced by some up-front activities such as an established website, social media presence, a good bio and recordings of your music. It is also helpful to have information regarding your fan base and references from venues owners.  This adds to your credibility as a musician.  Finally, it helps to understand how to best work with your manager.  Communication is one of the most important aspects of having a music manager.  It does you no good to keep secrets from them or try to work around them.  Ultimately, they are in your employ to help you get to the next level…your success is their success!

FOR MUSIC MANAGERS

The best advice for those aspiring to be music managers is simple, know what you’re getting into!  At times it can be a thankless job, and some liken it to being a parent.  Plan to spend time scouting venues, developing marketing strategies, attending gigs, managing conflict, booking gigs and overseeing finances…among other things.  You should be instrumental in gaining presence for the artists you sign. Do your research to better understand the differences between music managers, music agents, booking agents and promoters.  There are also differences related to your responsibilities with signed and unsigned artists.  For all scenarios, you should absolutely require a signed contract and determine the commission you will receive, which is typically 15-20%.  Finally, another key area is to build the team of professionals that will support your artists.  This includes lawyers, accountants, distributors, etc.  A good sports analogy would be to consider these business partners as the “front office” employees and the artist or band as the team.  You are in the middle as the coach.  You will be the liaison for these business partners and will speak on behalf of the artists. Therefore, pick your team wisely.  Your credibility is on the line. 

I am very close to putting the final touches on my business plan for D Leigh Talent.  I hope you find this information and the references helpful as either a musician or a music manager.  I’ll continue to provide updates, so check back often.

Take Care,

D Leigh

References:

Goetz, R. (April 18, 2013) Musician Coaching.com. Get a music manager: Part 1.  Retrieved May 28, 2013 from http://musiciancoaching.com/music-business/get-a-music-manager-1/#.UaUcYJW3bdk

McDonald, H. (2013). MusiciansAbout.com.  How to work with your manager.  Retrieved on May 26, 2013 from http://musicians.about.com/od/beingamusician/ht/workwithmanager.htm

McDonald, H. (2013). MusiciansAbout.com.  Artist manager – What is it?  Retrieved on May 28, 2013 from http://musicians.about.com/od/otherindustrycareers/p/artistmanager.htm