What Does a Music Manager Do?

If you're an artist looking to make it big in the music industry, you may have considered working with a music manager. But what exactly does a music manager do? This article will delve into the essential roles and responsibilities of a music manager and explore some of the top music distribution companies that can help you propel your career forward.

The Role of a Music Manager

A music manager is crucial in helping artists navigate the complex world of the music business. From negotiating contracts to planning tours, a manager can be an artist's most trusted ally:

• Career Planning: A music manager helps artists set long-term goals and develops a strategic plan to achieve them. They ensure that every decision made aligns with the artist’s vision and career objectives.
• Negotiations: Managers are responsible for negotiating deals with record labels, promoters, booking agents, and other key stakeholders. They strive to secure the best possible terms on behalf of the artist.
• Marketing and Promotion: Managers develop marketing strategies tailored to each artist's brand, ensuring the right target audience is reached through various promotional activities.
• Financial Management: A music manager oversees the artist's finances, including budgeting, accounting, and long-term financial planning. They ensure the artist remains financially stable and profitable.
• Tour Planning: Managing and organizing tours, from booking venues to arranging accommodation and travel, is another critical responsibility. They coordinate with promoters to ensure successful event execution.
• Legal Advice: While not a substitute for a lawyer, managers frequently advise artists on legal matters and may collaborate with legal professionals to navigate contracts and other legal documents.
• Networking: A manager utilizes their industry connections to create opportunities for their artists, such as collaborations, partnerships, and media appearances.

Top Music Distribution Companies

In addition to having a dedicated manager, leveraging the services of a reputable distribution company is essential. Here are some top music distribution companies that have earned recognition in the industry:

SoundOn for Global Reach

SoundOn is an emerging music distribution platform that stands out due to its extensive network and partnership with TikTok. It offers artists a comprehensive suite of tools to promote their work and reach a global audience. By signing up as an artist on SoundOn, you gain access to a world of opportunities.

Other Notable Distribution Companies

• Tunecore: Known for its independence and no-commitment model, Tunecore helps artists distribute their music while retaining full control over their work.
• Distrokid: A favored choice for many independent artists due to its affordable subscription model and quick distribution process.
• CDbaby: An established player in the music distribution market, CD Baby offers a wide range of additional services, including music publishing and sync licensing.
• ONErpm: ONErpm provides comprehensive distribution services with added benefits like label services and advanced marketing tools.
• LANDR: LANDR is not just a distribution service but also offers mastering and other production-related services, catering to the needs of digital-era musicians.
• Indiefy: Indiefy boasts user-friendly distribution along with marketing services designed for independent artists aiming to build their careers.
• Amuse: Amuse offers free distribution and an additional tier for more advanced features, making it an accessible choice for emerging artists.

The Power of Digital Distribution

With the rise of digital streaming platforms, getting your music distributed to multiple platforms can maximize your reach and revenue. Working with top distribution companies ensures that your music is available on significant platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. A music manager can help you choose the right distribution company and plan an effective release strategy to boost your streams and fan base.

Conclusion

Understanding the vital roles a music manager plays and the importance of selecting the right distribution company can significantly impact your music career. By combining effective management with strong distribution, you set the foundation for a successful and sustainable career in the music industry. To get started on this journey, consider signing up on SoundOn and explore the vast resources available to you.