How to Become an Artist Manager (Spin Records, Not Wheels)
If you’ve ever envisioned steering an artist’s career to new heights or pondered about the qualifications to become an artist manager, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to embark on your journey to becoming a successful artist manager. We’ll discuss:
- The essential skills you need.
- The education that can fuel your progress.
- How to secure a role as an artist manager.
So, whether you’re a newcomer to the entertainment industry or a seasoned professional looking to broaden your horizons, stick around.
We’re about to lay out the roadmap to become an artist manager.
Let’s get this show on the road!
Steps to Become an Artist Manager
Step 1: Understand the Role of an Artist Manager
Becoming an artist manager requires a comprehensive understanding of what the role entails.
An artist manager, also known as a band or talent manager, is responsible for shaping the careers of artists in the entertainment industry.
These professionals handle business-related tasks for artists, enabling the artists to focus solely on their creative work.
Your role as an artist manager will include negotiating contracts and deals, handling public relations, guiding artists on career decisions, managing the artist’s schedule, and sometimes even personal matters.
You will also be responsible for helping artists develop their brand and build their fan base.
You must be well versed in the workings of the music industry and have a good grasp of marketing strategies.
The role requires excellent communication skills, business acumen, strategic thinking, and a passion for music.
You may also need to handle difficult situations and make tough decisions on behalf of the artist.
Understanding and getting familiar with these responsibilities will prepare you for a successful career in artist management.
You can do this by researching, connecting with experienced professionals in the field, and perhaps even starting with smaller, more manageable roles in the music industry.
Step 2: Acquire a Strong Foundation in Business and Music
As an aspiring artist manager, it is crucial that you have a solid understanding of both business principles and the music industry.
This will enable you to guide your clients effectively in their career decisions and help them navigate the complex world of music business.
Start by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in music, business, or a related field.
A degree in music will give you an in-depth understanding of the industry, including the various roles and how they interact, the process of creating and producing music, and the history and future trends of music.
On the other hand, a business degree will equip you with fundamental knowledge on business management, marketing strategies, contract negotiations, and financial planning.
Aside from formal education, practical experience is also essential.
Try to secure internships in music companies or work with local bands or solo artists.
This will give you hands-on experience and a first-hand look at how the industry works.
Furthermore, consider taking additional courses or attending workshops that focus on artist management.
This can provide you with specialized knowledge and skills, making you more effective and competitive in your role.
Remember that the music industry is dynamic and constantly evolving.
Therefore, continuous learning and keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and changes is a must.
Step 3: Gain First-Hand Experience in the Music Industry
Gaining first-hand experience in the music industry is crucial to understanding its dynamics and intricacies.
This can be achieved through a wide range of avenues, including internships, part-time jobs, or even volunteering at music festivals, concerts, and local music events.
Experience in record labels, music PR firms or artist management companies can also provide valuable insights into the industry.
Being an artist manager involves dealing with different areas such as marketing, contract negotiations, tour planning, and media relations.
Therefore, any experience in these areas, even if it is not directly related to the music industry, can be beneficial.
While working or volunteering, aim to build a strong network with industry professionals such as artists, promoters, and record label executives.
Such connections can prove to be invaluable when you start managing artists.
Remember, the more you understand the industry and the artist’s role in it, the better you can guide your artist and contribute to their success.
Also, the experiences you gain now will help shape your management style and approach in the future.
Step 4: Build Relationships and Network
In the music industry, networking is paramount for an artist manager.
This step involves meeting and creating connections with music producers, record label executives, artists, promoters, and other industry professionals.
Networking can open doors to opportunities for your clients and help in building their careers.
There are various ways to build relationships and network in the music industry.
You can attend industry events, music festivals, and concerts, join online music forums and social networking sites, or even volunteer at music organizations.
Remember, every person you meet could potentially be a valuable contact in the future.
Building a strong network also involves maintaining good relationships with your contacts.
Regularly reach out to your network, show genuine interest in their work, and offer assistance when needed.
Remember, the aim is not just to build a vast network, but to create meaningful connections that can benefit both you and your clients.
Additionally, being part of professional organizations, such as the Music Managers Forum (MMF), can give you access to industry news, events, and networking opportunities.
This can be an excellent way to stay informed about the industry trends and to meet like-minded professionals.
In this digital age, it’s also crucial to have a strong online presence.
Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram can be effective tools for networking and showcasing your clients’ work.
Remember that networking is a gradual process, and it’s about building a long-term professional relationship.
Being patient, persistent, and respectful can go a long way in the networking game.
Step 5: Develop Strong Communication Skills
As an artist manager, your role will require extensive interactions with various stakeholders such as artists, record labels, promoters, and media.
It’s crucial that you have excellent communication skills to facilitate these discussions and negotiations.
Written communication skills are equally important as you’ll often be required to draft contracts, press releases, emails, and other professional documents.
Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and professional.
In addition, having strong interpersonal skills will help you build and maintain effective relationships with your artists and other industry professionals.
You should be able to handle difficult conversations with tact and diplomacy, and be able to negotiate effectively on behalf of your artists.
Consider taking courses in communication, public speaking, or business writing to further enhance your skills.
Remember, as an artist manager, you are the advocate for your artist, and your communication skills can directly impact their career.
Step 6: Learn About Marketing and Promotion
As an artist manager, one of your main roles will be to promote the artist’s work and build their public image.
Therefore, it is essential to learn about marketing and promotion strategies.
You could start by taking short courses or workshops in marketing, where you learn about the different types of marketing, such as digital, traditional, and guerrilla marketing.
You should also learn about the various promotional channels available, such as social media, press releases, and event promotions.
Understanding the marketing principles will allow you to plan and execute a successful marketing campaign.
For example, if your artist is releasing a new album, you can create a promotional plan that includes a press release, a social media campaign, and even a launch event.
Moreover, understanding your artist’s audience is crucial.
Learn how to research and analyze the target demographic, which will help you tailor the promotional activities to suit their preferences.
Lastly, it’s important to stay updated with the latest trends in marketing and promotion.
The entertainment industry is continually evolving, and the methods that worked in the past might not be effective anymore.
Regularly attending industry events and networking with other professionals can keep you informed about the latest strategies and technologies in marketing and promotion.
Step 7: Understand the Legal Aspects of Music Management
Understanding the legal aspects of music management is a crucial step in becoming an effective Artist Manager.
This includes understanding contracts, copyrights, intellectual property rights, and music licensing.
You also need to have knowledge of artist royalties and how they are calculated and distributed.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with music law, which is a branch of law that deals with legal issues in the music industry.
If you manage an artist, you need to understand how contracts work, what terms and conditions are common, and how to negotiate in the best interest of your artist.
Moreover, knowing about copyright and intellectual property rights is crucial to protect the artist’s work and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve for their creative output.
This knowledge can also help you in resolving disputes related to copyrights and intellectual property rights.
Understanding music licensing is another critical aspect.
It will help you know how to license an artist’s music for use in different platforms like radio, television, films, advertisements, and streaming services.
Lastly, being aware of how artist royalties work will ensure that your artist is properly compensated for their work.
You need to understand various types of royalties such as mechanical, performance, and synchronization royalties, and how they are calculated and distributed.
You can acquire this knowledge by taking courses in music law, attending seminars and workshops, reading books and online resources, or consulting with a music attorney.
Step 8: Start Managing Emerging Artists
When you’re starting out as an artist manager, it’s beneficial to start with managing emerging artists.
This will give you hands-on experience in the field, a deeper understanding of the music industry, and an opportunity to establish your reputation.
Working with new artists also means you’ll get to grow alongside them.
You can hone your skills in contract negotiation, booking shows, public relations, and other essential aspects of artist management.
You will learn how to develop an artist’s brand, promote their work, and support their career growth.
This experience can be rewarding and constructive, as it gives you the opportunity to learn from your own mistakes and successes.
Remember, every successful artist manager started somewhere.
Start by networking within your local music scene and offering your services to upcoming bands or musicians.
Attend music events, from concerts to open mic nights, to meet potential artists.
Reach out to music schools or institutions to find artists who might need management.
In addition, ensure that you’re constantly learning and staying updated with the music industry trends.
This will not only help you advise your artists better but also make you more appealing to potential clients.
Your growth as an artist manager heavily relies on your ability to adapt and evolve within this dynamic industry.
It’s important to note that managing an emerging artist requires patience and dedication.
The success won’t be overnight, but the lessons you learn and relationships you build during this time can be invaluable for your future career as an artist manager.
Step 9: Develop Negotiation and Financial Skills
As an artist manager, you will be required to negotiate contracts and deals on behalf of your client.
This could range from contracts with record labels, booking agents, promoters, and other industry professionals.
Therefore, it’s essential to develop strong negotiation skills.
This can be achieved by taking short-term courses or training on negotiation and contract law.
In addition to negotiation, you will also handle the artist’s finances.
You will have to understand how money is made and lost in the music industry to ensure the artist’s financial success.
This includes managing budgets, understanding royalty statements, taxes, and income from live performances, merchandise, and music sales.
Financial management courses, either online or at a local community college, can provide you with a solid foundation.
A basic understanding of business law, particularly as it relates to the music industry, can also be beneficial.
Remember, your role as an artist manager involves protecting the artist’s interests and assets, and solid negotiation and financial management skills are crucial to achieving that goal.
Step 10: Stay Abreast of Industry Trends and Changes
As an Artist Manager, it’s crucial to continuously keep up with current trends, new developments, and changes in the music and entertainment industry.
This includes staying informed about new music platforms, changes in music consumption habits, trends in talent scouting, and emerging markets.
One way to stay informed is by regularly reading industry-specific publications, attending music conferences, webinars, and networking events.
These are excellent ways to learn about the latest industry news, developments, and opportunities, as well as to network with industry professionals.
Another way is by engaging in lifelong learning.
This could involve enrolling in courses or workshops about new music technologies, marketing strategies, or financial management for artists.
Keeping up with industry trends will not only help you to guide your artists’ careers more effectively but it will also provide opportunities to diversify their income streams, adapt to changing consumer behaviors, and remain competitive in the evolving music landscape.
Remember, the success of the artists you manage largely depends on your ability to navigate the industry and its changes.
Therefore, staying abreast of the industry trends and changes is a non-negotiable aspect of your role as an Artist Manager.
Step 11: Establish Your Reputation and Personal Brand
As an Artist Manager, it’s crucial to establish a strong reputation and personal brand in the industry.
This will help you to attract more artists and make a mark in the highly competitive music industry.
You should be known as a reliable, professional, and skilled manager who can take an artist’s career to new heights.
Establishing your reputation begins with the artists you manage.
Show your dedication and commitment to their success.
The way you manage your artists, how you communicate, and the results you deliver will all contribute to your reputation.
Develop strong relationships with industry stakeholders, such as record labels, concert promoters, and booking agents.
Networking effectively in the industry can open doors for you and your artists, and increase your visibility.
Developing your personal brand involves showing your unique qualities and what sets you apart from other managers.
It is not just about your logo or your company name, but about your philosophy, your work ethic, your values, and your approach to artist management.
Your personal brand should reflect who you are and what you stand for, and it should appeal to the type of artists you want to attract.
To further enhance your reputation and personal brand, you may consider attending industry conferences, contributing to industry publications, and keeping your professional profiles updated on social media platforms.
This will keep you in the loop and visible to artists looking for representation.
Step 12: Expand Your Business and Client Base
As an established Artist Manager, your next step is to expand your business and client base.
Begin by identifying potential new artists to manage.
This could be through attending music events, talent shows, or even leveraging online platforms such as YouTube and Soundcloud.
Always be on the lookout for fresh and exciting talent that aligns with your managing style and business model.
Part of expanding your business also involves extending your network within the industry.
Attend industry events, conventions, and parties to meet other professionals in the music industry.
You never know where a new contact could lead, as they could introduce you to new artists or offer collaborative opportunities.
Maintaining good relationships with your current clients is vital.
This not only ensures they will stay with you as they grow in their career, but it could also lead to referrals from them.
If your current clients are happy with your services, they are likely to recommend you to other artists they know.
Remember, managing more artists means more work, so you may need to hire additional staff or outsource certain tasks.
As your client base grows, so too will your reputation and success within the industry.
Remember to stay committed to your artists, ensuring their needs are met and their careers are progressing.
Always uphold your professional integrity, as this will not only reflect positively on you but also your artists.
Artist Manager Roles and Responsibilities
Artist Managers play a critical role in advancing an artist’s career, using their industry knowledge and connections to promote their client’s work and arrange business deals.
They are responsible for the administrative aspects of the artist’s professional life.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Artist Promotion
- Create and implement strategies to promote an artist’s music or performances.
- Collaborate with marketing teams to build the artist’s brand and audience.
- Coordinate public appearances, interviews, and promotional events.
Contract Negotiation
- Negotiate contracts with record labels, concert promoters, and other industry professionals.
- Ensure contracts are in the best interest of the artist, both financially and creatively.
Network Building
- Develop and maintain relationships with industry professionals and potential partners.
- Seek out and create opportunities for collaborations.
Scheduling and Organization
- Manage the artist’s professional schedule, including performances, recording sessions, and promotional events.
- Coordinate travel arrangements and logistics for tours or events.
Financial Management
- Oversee the artist’s finances, including budgeting for tours and recording projects.
- Ensure payments are received for work and royalties are correctly distributed.
Problem Solving
- Anticipate potential problems and work proactively to solve them.
- Resolve conflicts or issues that arise in the course of the artist’s professional activities.
Communication
- Act as a liaison between the artist and other parties, including media, fans, and industry professionals.
- Communicate the artist’s vision and goals to other team members and partners.
Talent Scouting
- Identify emerging talent and potential opportunities for the artist.
- Assist with auditions and talent selection for projects or collaborations.
Artist Development
- Help the artist develop their skills and enhance their career.
- Provide advice and guidance on creative decisions and career moves.
Legal Understanding
- Understand basic entertainment law principles and protect the artist’s rights and interests.
- Work with legal counsel to address any legal issues or disputes.
Market Research
- Stay up-to-date with music industry trends and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Research potential markets and opportunities for the artist.
What Does an Artist Manager Do?
Artist Managers, also known as band managers, are responsible for overseeing the business aspects of an artist’s career.
This can include musicians, painters, actors, writers, or any other type of creative professional.
They work closely with their clients to develop their career goals and implement strategies to achieve these goals.
This may involve helping the artist to find a record deal, booking gigs, negotiating contracts, and managing the artist’s public image.
An Artist Manager may also handle the financial aspects of the artist’s career, such as budgeting, tracking income and expenses, and ensuring the artist is paid fairly for their work.
In addition to these responsibilities, an Artist Manager often serves as the main point of contact for anyone wishing to book or work with the artist.
They communicate with event organizers, public relations professionals, record label executives, and other industry professionals on behalf of the artist.
Furthermore, an Artist Manager may also be responsible for hiring and managing other team members such as booking agents, publicists, and lawyers.
In summary, an Artist Manager’s primary role is to help guide an artist’s career and ensure they have the necessary resources and opportunities to succeed.
Essential Artist Manager Skills
- Communication: Artist Managers must effectively liaise with a range of people, from record label executives to publicists and promoters. The ability to clearly articulate the artist’s needs and negotiate agreements is vital.
- Interpersonal Skills: Building strong relationships with artists and understanding their creative vision is key. Excellent interpersonal skills help in maintaining mutual respect and fostering a productive working relationship.
- Business Acumen: As the person responsible for advancing an artist’s career, understanding the business side of the music industry, including contracts, royalties, and marketing strategies, is crucial.
- Networking: A vast network of contacts within the industry can open up new opportunities for the artist. The ability to forge connections and maintain professional relationships is essential.
- Marketing and Promotion: Artist Managers must effectively promote their artists to increase their visibility. Knowledge of traditional and digital marketing strategies, including social media promotion, is required.
- Problem-solving: The ability to identify and resolve issues quickly and efficiently is important. This could range from resolving conflicts between artists and record labels to addressing logistical issues during tours.
- Project Management: Coordinating album releases, tours, and promotional activities requires strong project management skills. The ability to manage time, budget, and resources effectively is crucial.
- Knowledge of Music Trends: Staying up-to-date with the latest music trends and understanding what resonates with audiences can help guide the artist’s creative direction and marketing strategies.
- Negotiation: Whether it’s negotiating contracts or securing the best performance slots for artists, strong negotiation skills are a must-have for any Artist Manager.
- Resilience: The music industry can be unpredictable and challenging. The ability to remain resilient and motivated, even in the face of setbacks, is key.
- Financial Management: Overseeing the financial aspects of an artist’s career, including budgeting for projects and managing income from various sources, requires good financial management skills.
- Creativity: Creative thinking can help in devising innovative marketing strategies, resolving issues, and guiding the artist’s career in unique directions.
- Understanding of Legal Aspects: Knowledge of legal aspects related to contracts, copyright law, and artist rights is necessary to protect the artist’s interests.
- Teamwork: Artist Managers often work with a larger team, including publicists, booking agents, and label executives. The ability to work collaboratively and foster a team environment is important.
- Time Management: Juggling various tasks and responsibilities, often under tight deadlines, demands effective time management and organizational skills.
Artist Manager Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Assistant Artist Manager
Your career typically starts as an Assistant Artist Manager.
At this stage, your main job is to support the Artist Manager and learn the ropes of the industry.
Your responsibilities may include handling correspondence, coordinating schedules, and assisting in negotiations.
Here are some tips for success:
- Understand the Industry: Familiarize yourself with the music industry, its trends, and key players.
- Networking: Build relationships with musicians, record labels, and other industry professionals.
- Enhance Communication: Improve your communication and negotiation skills.
The Ascent: Artist Manager
Once you have gained enough experience and built a strong network, you can become an Artist Manager.
Here, you will handle the career of artists, strategize their branding, and negotiate contracts.
To thrive in this stage:
- Negotiation Skills: Strengthen your negotiation skills as you’ll be making deals for your artists.
- Marketing and Promotion: Learn how to effectively market your artists and their music.
- Artist Relations: Maintain a strong and positive relationship with your artists.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Artist Manager
The Senior Artist Manager is the next career milestone.
In this role, you’ll handle multiple artists, oversee their career development, and coordinate with record labels and promoters.
To excel as a Senior Artist Manager:
- Leadership: Guide your team and ensure all artists are progressing in their careers.
- Strategic Planning: Develop long-term career plans for your artists and implement them.
- Problem Solving: Be prepared to address unforeseen issues and problems.
Beyond the Horizon: Artist Management Director
After gaining substantial experience and success as a Senior Artist Manager, you can rise to the position of Artist Management Director.
You’ll be responsible for managing a portfolio of artists, overseeing the management team, and making strategic decisions.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Team Management: Oversee and guide your management team effectively.
- Strategic Decision Making: Make important decisions to drive the careers of your artists.
- Industry Trends: Stay up-to-date with industry trends and adapt your strategies accordingly.
Pinnacle of Success: CEO of Artist Management Company
At the peak of the Artist Manager career ladder, you may own or lead an Artist Management Company.
In this role, you’ll be making critical decisions about the company’s direction and managing a large team of managers and artists.
You will also be influencing the music industry and shaping the careers of many artists.
Artist Manager Salary
Entry-Level Artist Manager
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $60,000 per year
- Entry-level artist managers typically have 0-2 years of experience. They may hold degrees in music business, arts management, or related fields. Their responsibilities often include handling basic logistics for artists, such as booking gigs and managing schedules.
Mid-Level Artist Manager
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $85,000 per year
- Mid-level artist managers have 2-5 years of experience. They often take on more strategic roles, such as negotiating contracts and shaping the artist’s career trajectory.
Senior Artist Manager
- Median Salary: $85,000 – $120,000 per year
- Senior artist managers possess 5+ years of experience. They are responsible for steering the artist’s career, building relationships with key industry players, and making critical business decisions.
Head of Artist Management / Talent Management Director
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve managing a roster of artists, leading a team of artist managers, and shaping the talent strategy of an agency or record label.
VP of Artist Relations / Talent Management
- Median Salary: $150,000 – $250,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive industry experience, deep knowledge of music business, and strong relationships in the industry. They involve setting the strategic direction for talent acquisition, management and relations for a record label or agency.
Artist Manager Work Environment
Artist Managers often work within the entertainment industry, particularly within music and film.
This can range from working in music studios, film sets, or in an office setting.
The work schedule of an Artist Manager can be highly unpredictable and they often have to work irregular hours, including weekends and evenings.
This is because their work revolves around the schedules of the artists they manage, which often include rehearsals, performances, recording sessions, and promotional events that may happen at any time.
Travel is often an integral part of an Artist Manager’s work environment as they may need to accompany their artists to various locations for performances, promotional events, or meetings with other industry professionals.
In some cases, after gaining enough industry experience and networking, an Artist Manager may choose to open their own management company.
FAQs About Becoming an Artist Manager
What is needed to become an artist manager?
To become an artist manager, you need a strong understanding of the music industry and business operations.
This includes knowledge of contracts, negotiation, marketing, public relations, and finance.
A degree in music business, arts administration, or a related field can be helpful, but is not always required.
Important skills include excellent communication and networking abilities, a talent for spotting potential, strategic thinking, and a passion for music and talent development.
How long does it take to become an artist manager?
The time it takes to become an artist manager can vary widely depending on your background and the specific path you take.
You could start as an intern or assistant at a talent management company, gradually gaining experience and working your way up.
Alternatively, you could start managing a local band or artist, slowly building your reputation and network in the music industry.
Generally, it takes several years of experience to establish yourself as a professional artist manager.
Can I be an artist manager without a degree?
Yes, it is possible to become an artist manager without a formal degree.
Practical experience, industry knowledge, and networking are often more important than formal education in this field.
However, a degree in music business, arts administration, or a similar field can be beneficial and might open up more opportunities.
Is being an artist manager a stressful job?
Being an artist manager can be stressful at times, as it involves juggling multiple tasks, dealing with unpredictable situations, and often working irregular hours.
However, it can also be very rewarding, especially when you help an artist achieve success.
Good time management, resilience, and stress management skills can help you cope with the demands of this job.
What are the prospects for artist managers in the next decade?
The prospects for artist managers are generally good and are influenced by trends in the music industry.
With the rise of independent artists and the ongoing shift towards digital music platforms, there are opportunities for innovative and adaptable artist managers who understand these trends.
However, the competition is also fierce, and success often depends on your ability to discover and develop talent, build strong relationships in the industry, and adapt to changing circumstances.
Conclusion
There you go.
Embarking on a journey to become an artist manager is no easy task, but it’s undeniably rewarding.
Equipped with the correct knowledge, skills, and sheer determination, you’re already on the pathway to making a significant impression in the entertainment industry.
Remember, the road may be tough, but the possibilities are boundless. Your guidance could lead to the next superstar who changes how we appreciate music, arts, and culture.
So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in knowledge. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop fostering talent.
Because the world is eager to see the talent you can cultivate.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or advancing your career in artist management, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is tailored to provide customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
Enjoy Your 9-5: Fun Jobs with Surprisingly High Salaries
Work with a Smile: The Most Enjoyable Jobs in the World
Now Hiring: The Hottest Careers You Should Be Considering
