What Do Music Managers Do?

While the music industry may seem glamourous, there's a lot that goes on behind the scenes. Two key elements include professional music management and accessing music via affordable streaming services. In this article, we'll delve into the roles played by music managers and explore some of the cheapest music streaming services available in 2025.

Music managers, also known as artist managers, play a crucial role in an artist's career. They are involved in almost every aspect of the artist’s professional life, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Duties can range from practical tasks to strategic planning, all with the primary aim of furthering the artist's career.

1. Career Planning and Strategy

The cornerstone of a manager’s job is to help the artist navigate their career. This involves setting long-term goals and mapping out the necessary steps to achieve them. Managers work with artists to identify where they want to be months or even years down the line, and they create actionable plans to get there.

2. Marketing and Promotion

Effective marketing and promotion are essential for any artist. Managers develop marketing campaigns, work with publicists, and ensure their artists have a strong online presence. They leverage social media, streaming platforms such as TikTok, and other digital tools to build and maintain a fan base.

3. Booking and Tour Management

Booking gigs and managing tours is another critical aspect of a manager's role. They liaise with venues, negotiate fees, and ensure that all logistical details of a tour are handled professionally. This includes travel arrangements, accommodation, and technical requirements.

4. Financial Management

Managing finances is a significant responsibility for music managers. They help artists budget for projects, manage income streams, and oversee expenses. This financial guidance ensures that artists can sustain their careers over the long term.

5. Networking and Building Connections

Managers use their industry connections to benefit their artists, whether by securing better gigs, collaborating with other artists, or finding opportunities for exposure. They are essential gatekeepers who open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Cheapest Music Streaming Services in 2025

With the evolution of music consumption, streaming services have become a go-to for music lovers. Here are some of the most affordable music streaming services available in 2025 that offer a great balance between cost and features.

1. Spotify

Spotify remains a popular choice due to its extensive music library and flexible pricing tiers. The ad-supported free tier gives users access to millions of tracks, while Spotify Premium, starting at $9.99/ month, removes ads and allows offline listening.

2. Apple Music

Apple Music is another major player, known for its high-quality music and smooth integration with Apple devices. With a current subscription fee of $9.99/month for individuals and family plans available, it is both competitive and user-friendly.

3. Amazon Music

Amazon Music offers a variety of plans to suit different needs. Amazon Prime members can access over 2 million songs for free, while Amazon Music Unlimited offers a wider catalog for $7.99/month.

4. YouTube Music

YouTube Music comes with a unique advantage – access to official tracks, remixes, and covers. It has an ad-supported free version, and a premium tier costing $9.99/month that includes ad-free listening and offline downloads.

5. Deezer

Deezer is known for its vast library, curated playlists, and innovative features like Flow, which creates personalized playlists. Their Premium plan costs $9.99/month, with an initial free trial for new users.

6. Tidal

Tidal emphasizes high-fidelity sound quality and offers exclusive music content. Tidal's premium plan starts at $9.99/month, providing users with a superior listening experience.

7. SoundOn

SoundOn is an emerging player, standing out for its seamless integration with TikTok and CapCut. SoundOn offers a competitive pricing structure and an extensive array of tools for promoting new music. If you're an artist, consider registering with SoundOn to reach a broader audience and enhance your career.

Conclusion

Music managers serve as invaluable allies for artists, guiding their career paths, handling logistics, and amplifying their presence in the industry. On the consumer side, enjoying music doesn’t have to break the bank with several affordable streaming options available in 2025. Whether you're a music fan or an artist looking to flourish, understanding these elements will help you navigate the ever-evolving world of music.

Choosing the right streaming service can greatly enhance your music experience while staying within budget, and having a proficient music manager can significantly influence an artist's career trajectory.